ND football fans have high hopes

by Sarah Rice (srice@wsbt.com)

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Irish fans enjoy the Blue-Gold Game (WSBT Photo)

Irish fans enjoy the Blue-Gold Game on Saturday, April 19, 2008. (WSBT Photo)

By WSBT News1

Story Created: Apr 19, 2008 at 8:14 PM EST

Story Updated: Apr 19, 2008 at 10:53 PM EST

NOTRE DAME — While the Notre Dame football team took the field Saturday for an annual tradition, fans got a peek at what the next season may have to offer. And they say the team didn’t disappoint them.

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It was a tough season last year for the Irish going 3-9. But that didn’t stop thousands of fans from coming to Saturday’s Blue-Gold game.

Many are hopeful about the upcoming season and so are area businesses.

The sights and the sounds make it very clear. Notre Dame football fans are looking forward to a brand new season.

"I mean everybody in the stands, we were all doing everything with the band. And everyone was seeming like we were excited about the year," said Notre Dame fan Maureen McGing.

Some say that excitement stems from a noticeable difference in this year's squad. Just ask the experts who played for the Irish in 1988. That was the last time the Blue and Gold won a national title.

"There was a lot of heart. I think a lot of that was missing last year. And it was good to see that and the spirit," said former Irish football player Mike Brennan.

"A lot of enthusiasm out there. And the coaches seem to get behind the players too. I see more of a team effort and we have high hopes going into this season," said former Irish football player Wes Pritchett.

And so do area businesses like hotels and restaurants.

"It's really our bread and butter," said Marriott Director of Operations Kelly Neubauer.

Businesses say last year's upsetting season had a major impact on sales.

"Yeah, last year was a pretty dramatic dip, especially towards the end of the season," said Neubauer.

"Business definitely hinges on the football team's success and I think people felt it in town," said Legend’s General Manager Aaron Perri.

But a new year, brings new hope.

"But we're excited for a new season and hopefully we'll be back in the glory," said Perri.

And fans say "The Shirt" says it all.

"Believe. And let's get back to basics. And let's get back to Notre Dame football," said McGing.

Notre Dame's first home game is set for September 6. They'll take on San Diego State at home.

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