Jim Grobe looked around and surveyed the crowd as he arrived at the Ohio University Southern Campus.

Saturday, August 05, 2000

Jim Grobe looked around and surveyed the crowd as he arrived at the Ohio University Southern Campus.

"It looks like a nice crowd. The people down here in Southern Ohio really support us. I always enjoy coming down here," Grobe said.

Grobe was pleased as he made his appearance as guest speaker for the 8th annual OUSC Kickoff Classic Thursday.

The annual affair allows Grobe to address the area Bobcat fans and speak about the upcoming season.

Derek Scott, director of marketing and broadcasting for Ohio University, echoed Grobe’s sentiments.

"The Ironton campus always gives us the best support of all our regional campuses. They feel like they’re an extension of the university. The other regional campuses don’t seem to have that same feeling," Scott said.

The Kickoff Classic offers fans free food and drinks, music, and a chance to hear Grobe speak and answer their questions.

Grobe expects a good season that will feature former Ironton wide receiver James Taylor.

"Our passing game is going to be better. We have a lot of good receivers who can catch the ball, and (quarterback) Dontrell Jackson stayed on campus this summer and he’s improved his passing," Grobe said.

"We look for James Taylor to be our deep threat. He can go and get it."

With a good season in the forecast, the Ohio sports information department is promoting ticket sales. A ticket ordering form appears at the far right.