Over 100 Former Mountaineer Football Players Gather for Alumni Picnic
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – June 3, 2025 – Last Saturday, Milan Puskar Stadium was alive with nostalgia as over 100 former West Virginia University football players reunited for Coach Rich Rodriguez’s inaugural Alumni Picnic. This event, aimed at reconnecting former players from various eras, allowed attendees to reminisce and share memories in a laid-back atmosphere away from the pressures of game day.
The picnic welcomed alumni from as far back as the 1960s, with each participant introduced on the red carpet by Dusty Rutledge, the senior associate athletics director. Among the esteemed guests was legendary coach Don Nehlen, who took the opportunity to reconnect with his former players. The warm welcome included high-fives from current coaches and staff, creating a celebratory and inclusive environment.
WVU Varsity Club director Kevin Johnston, who helped organize the event alongside veteran player relations director Rasheed Marshall, noted that many attendees were visiting the campus for the first time in years. “The coolest thing I saw was Chris Edmonds going through his pregame routine on the field,” Johnston shared, highlighting the emotional connection players felt to their former home.
Following a meal and speeches from Coach Rodriguez, the alumni were encouraged to explore the Puskar Center and take photos on the field, allowing them to relive cherished memories. Rodriguez’s initiative to host this picnic reflects his commitment to fostering lasting relationships with former Mountaineers, enhancing their connection to the university and its football program.
This heartfelt reunion showcased the enduring legacy of Mountaineer football and provided a meaningful opportunity for alumni to reconnect and celebrate their shared history on and off the field.
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