Orange Bowl's Welcome Reception

Although the Hawkeye football team has been in South Florida preparing for the 2010 Fed Ex Orange Bowl since the 27th, December 30th marked the official first day for the team and travelling party as recognized by the Orange Bowl committee. Iowa's opponent for the game, Georgia Tech did arrive on Wednesday and their travel party is in Miami-Broward County, just north of Iowa's Miami-Dade County home.


The Orange Bowl welcomed both staff and players in two different ways. The players had a dinner followed by the opportunity to select their gifts in the Sony suite.



The Iowa coaching and administrative staff also had a dinner and were addressed by members of the Orange Bowl committee. Iowa Athletic Director, Gary Barta and head Football Coach, Kirk Ferentz also acknowledged the appreciation to be playing in the BCS game. Orange Bowl mascot, Obie welcomed children of all ages for a opportunity to have their picture taken with it and the 2010 Fed Ex Orange Bowl trophy.

Hayden Fry Way Dedication

On March 10th, 2009 the city of Coralville passed a proclimation re-naming 1st Avenue to Hayden Fry Way. On this, the 4th of September the signs were officially displayed on a main entrance to the city off Interstate 80.

At the corner of 9th Street and Hayden Fry Way over 300 people turned out as the street was officially re-named. Among those in attendance speaking were Iowa Athletic Director Gary Barta, U of Iowa President Sally Mason, former Sports Director for WMT-AM Ron Gonder and Nancy Quellhorst President of the Iowa City Chamber of Commerce. To lead off the program was the presentation of colors by a local group of Marines and the Iowa Fight Song by the Alumni Band.

Commemorating Hayden's work to make the nation aware of the Iowa Farmer, he had the "ANF" (America Needs Farmers) decal located on the top of the Hawkeye Football Helmet. Today the Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, Bill Northey presented a plaque honoring Coach Fry for his contribution to the Ag industry.

Bringing more business to the area was what Coach Fry told the Coralville Chamber within weeks after taking the job. His plan was to create a program which would sell tickets and fill hotels and restaurants in the area. Here Coralville Mayor Jim Fawcett recognized Coach Fry for his contributions to the area by giving him the key to the city.

Along with the street sign, Hayden stands with another sign which will adorn the road leading into Coralville.

Outback Bowl - Hawkeye Huddle

Hawkeye fans invaded the Tampa Convention Center for the Hawkeye Huddle. Countless black and gold fans streamed through the doors to listen to Gary Dolphin, voice of the Hawkeyes lead the crowd at this pep rally. Fans were treated to the band, spirit squads, Herky as well as other dignitaries.

U of I President Sally Mason, Athletic Director Gary Barta take a moment to speak with Jon Miller of KXNO.

Former Hawkeye great Ed Podolak signs autogrpahs and poses for picture for all of his adoring fans.