Penn State adds player names, blue ribbons on 2012 jerseys
Penn State will unveil new football uniforms on Sept. 1 when they open their 126th season at Beaver Stadium against Ohio University. The new look will include a respectful nod to the past with an eye toward the future.Players and coaches were unanimous that they wanted to include a blue ribbon, the symbol for child-abuse awareness, on the uniforms and also include the last name of each player on the jersey for the first time in school history. The use of the name, Penn State said in a statement, is in "recognition of their resolve and dedication to the team and the university." Athletic director David Joyner said in the release: "The Penn State community stands with all victims of child abuse," said Acting Athletic Director David Joyner. "Coach Bill O'Brien and his football team made it clear they want to support victims and bring more awareness to this issue, which affects so many." Penn State began practice Monday, its first formal practice under first-year coach Bill O'Brien since spring drills. "I'm proud that our players want to be part of the University's efforts to help victims of child abuse," O'Brien said. "We hope our fans join us in wearing blue ribbons to all Penn State home games. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of children everywhere."
