April 16, 1999

LAS VEGAS - Fans can get an early preview of this fall's UNLV football team at Saturday's Kick Off '99.

Scheduled to run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Bill "Wildcat" Morris Rebel Park on campus, the free event will offer a unique way to meet the team and new coaching staff. The players are scheduled to hold their first scrimmage of spring practice while Head Coach John Robinson will host the affair via a wireless microphone.

Sponsored by Lotus Broadcasting and the UNLV Rebel Football Foundation, Kick Off '99 will feature the school's band, cheerleaders and mascot, Hey Reb. Also on hand will be the program's new live mascot horse, Rouser, who will have a woman rider this season for the first time ever. Prototypes of the newly designed Rebel football helmet and uniform also will be premiered.

The first 1,000 fans attending Kick Off '99 will receive a commemorative team mini-poster that can be used for player autographs.

Following the scrimmage, fans are invited to a barbecue at the field. Catered by Big Dog's, the cost is $5.

"This is the best opportunity for all of Las Vegas to get out and meet their new Rebels, get some good food and see how Coach Robinson is running the new program," UNLV Director of Community Relations Terry Cottle said. "It will be a great atmosphere for sports fans and entire families at Rebel Park."

Before Kick Off '99, the Junior Rebel Club will be holding a Sports Clinic with selected Runnin' Rebel basketball and Rebel football players and coaches. Current members and those who would like to join should meet outside the McDermott P.E. Complex at 9:45 a.m. Saturday. Junior Rebel Club members will receive a free barbecue after the scrimmage. New memberships, open to children age 12 and younger, cost $10. Call 895-UNLV for more information.