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RICHMOND, Ky. – Eastern Kentucky University athletics announced the start of the Big E Association – a group for all former student-athletes, managers, trainers, practice players, spirit squad members and staff/coaches – to CELEBRATE the long and successful history of Colonel athletics.
 
All former student-athletes, managers, trainers, practice players, spirit squad members and staff/coaches from EKU are considered members of the Big E Association.
 
"Our commitment to serving and honoring our current and former student-athletes is a top priority within our department we focus on daily," said Vice President and Director of Athletics Matt Roan.  "The past success, dedication, and hard work of our student-athletes has established a foundation for the continued growth of our department.  I am excited to introduce the Big E Association as a platform to celebrate the long and successful history of EKU athletics since our first contests were played in 1909, and to engage those who have contributed so much.  We look forward to using this platform to honor and celebrate contributors to this program through reunions, tailgates, online content and in-game recognitions, as well as elevating the platform of the EKU Athletics Hall of Fame."
 
As an extension and arm of the Big E Association, the Worn Cleat Club has a long history at EKU and continues as the all-inclusive home for former EKU football student-athletes, managers, trainers and coaches.  Because of its more than 50-year history as a letter winner group, it is the only sport at EKU with its own overarching umbrella.
 
"I am excited to see the introduction of the Big E Association and the value that the athletics department is placing on ensuring the lasting legacy of the Worn Clean Club as part of this addition to the department," said Karl Park.  "The Worn Cleat Club has a rich tradition that bonds together the alums of EKU football.  That brotherhood will continue within this new umbrella to honor all student-athletes at EKU."
 
All members will receive regular email correspondence and be invited to various engagement opportunities throughout the year.  Additional online content will be branded around the Big E Association.  Program alums do not need to have lettered or graduated from EKU in order to be part of the program.
 
"The passion and pride of being a former EKU student-athlete are so strong within this community and across the nation," said Robert Sampson, Special Assistant to the Athletics Director and member of the Colonel Club staff.  "We are proud to explore new avenues to celebrate the legacies that have been left on the playing fields in Richmond and the impact of these student-athletes that go far beyond the sidelines."
 
EKU athletics is committed to showcasing content that evokes the emotions and excitement of its storied past as an athletic department, celebrating the individuals that build a strong foundation for our success as we transition to the ASUN Conference.
 
"As an alum of this institution, I am excited to share this new engagement opportunity with those who have poured so much into this place," said Grant Stepp, Associate Athletics Director for Development.  "Whether it is coming to a game, posting about their passion for the institution on social media, meeting with fellow program alums or giving philanthropically, EKU will always be home and a point of pride for those that have participated in athletics in some way here in Richmond."
 
The current and future success of EKU athletics has been built through the dedication and hard work of the former student-athletes, managers, trainers, practice players, spirit squad members and staff/coaches of the past. There are three main pillars to staying connected to EKU athletics for alums of EKU's sport programs.
 
STAY CONNECTED
•           By providing accurate and up-to-date contact information
•           By attending EKU events or engaging in EKU athletics content on social media
•           By enhancing the current student-athlete experience via unique connection experiences
•           By serving as mentors to current student-athletes through the Bratzke Student-Athlete Academic Center
 
STAY ENGAGED
•           By following teams through EKUSports.com, email content and social media
•           To share memories, photos and recollection of the program with fellow alums, teammates and supporters of the program
 
ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO PARTICIPATE
•           To be involved and encourage involvement in giving programs through the Colonel Club
•           By assisting with alumni connections, events and gatherings
•           Keep contact information up-to-date, and encourage additional alumni to update their information
•           Embrace and encourage philanthropic activity in support of EKU Athletics
 
Individuals who do not give philanthropically are still members, but individuals that make a donation enjoy additional benefits.  As a division of the Colonel Club, philanthropic membership for the Big E Association runs parallel to your commitment to the Colonel Club.  Everyone that falls under the noted criteria for the Big E Association is eligible once they have joined the Colonel Club at the $100 level or higher.  They will receive benefits of the Colonel Club and additional recognition as a Big E Association member.  Those in the Big E Association are encouraged to participate in various events that may have an entry fee to cover costs, such as tailgates.
 
As part of the announcement of the Big E Association, plans are now being finalized to honor recent selections to the EKU Athletics Hall of Fame this fall for the Class of 2020 and Class of 2021.  Complete details will be announced soon.