Friday, Sept. 1, marks College Colors Day in Alabama, and all TROY supporters are encouraged to show their support to “the School we love” by wearing their Trojan colors.

Last week, surrounded by mascots and student leaders from Alabama’s public universities on the steps of the Alabama Capitol, Gov. Kay Ivey officially proclaimed College Colors Day, presenting the signed proclamation to Gordon Stone, executive director of the state’s Higher Education Partnership.

“For the past decade, the Higher Education Partnership has worked closely with Alabama’s governors to celebrate the unique contributions of public universities to the state,” Stone said. “We have more than 180,000 students, 70,000 employees and $20 billion of economic impact. Every Alabamian is encouraged to wear the colors of their favorite school on Sept.1 as we collectively celebrate our universities. We thank Governor Ivey for continuing this tradition.”

Coordinated with the start of the school year and football season, College Colors Day is a national celebration dedicated to promoting the traditions and spirit that make the college experience great. Additionally, the day strives to advocate for higher education through increased public awareness and celebrates the achievements of colleges and universities to recognize the important roles they play throughout the country.

“I think College Colors Day is so important because it is our way to show our Trojan pride,” said Ashli Morris, TROY Student Government Association president. “It provides everyone with the opportunity to show their pride and support for their universities and it is a great way for us to show how important higher education is to our state.”

TROY student Sarah Drake is excited about the opportunity to show her Trojan spirit on College Colors Day.

“I’m a huge football fan, so any day that I get to wear my colors and support my school is a great day,” said TROY student Sarah Drake. “I’ll probably wear a TROY shirt and maybe a hat because it will probably be hot that day.”

For most Trojan fans, they will have to wait another week to cheer on the football team in person, as the Trojans travel to Boise State this Saturday. The game will be broadcast on ESPNU at 2:45 p.m. TROY’s home opener is set for 5 p.m. on Sept. 9 against Alabama State.