Today@Sam Article

Camo Jerseys Being Auctioned Online

Oct. 17, 2011
SHSU Media Contact: Paul Ridings

Just in time for last Saturday's homecoming victory, the Bearkats got some new uniforms—orange, white and black camouflaged jerseys.

The jerseys, which were for the homecoming game only, are now being auctioned off on Sam Houston State's athletic website, Gobearkats.com. The proceeds will go toward the Lone Survivor Foundation, which was established by former Bearkat and retired Navy SEAL Marcus Luttrell.

"This is a tremendous cause, and I am glad we are able to be a part of it," SHSU director of athletics Bobby Williams said. "By auctioning off the jerseys, we also allow our fans to get involved with this project which is organized by a Bearkat."

The Lone Survivor Foundation was established by Luttrell in February 2010. Luttrell was awarded the Navy Cross after his actions during Operation RED WINGS, which he describes in the New York Times best-seller, "Lone Survivor," the Eyewitness Account of Operation RED WINGS and SEAL Team 10. His experience serves as the catalyst for the formation of the foundation and his vision to give back to those who serve.

"Marcus is a great inspiration and someone we have had talk to our team in the past," head coach Willie Fritz said. "We didn't tell the players about this until just before the game, and I know it is something they are excited to be a part of."

Bidding is now open and the jerseys will be auctioned off over the next two weeks, with bidding closing at noon on Oct. 31. The opening bid for each jersey will be $100. Anyone interested in bidding must register on the site first.

"We really think this is a great opportunity for Sam Houston State and its fans to give back to a very worthy cause," Fritz said.

The football team learned of the new jerseys at a team meeting Friday night before the Homecoming matchup with Nicholls.

"I was just excited," defensive end Eddie Decambre said. "It was something new. I thought the fans were going to be excited. It surprised us, and it all goes to the military. They've been helping out our country."

Lineback Kash David said, "They showed it to us in the team meeting, and Marcus Luttrell was the one who actually showed it to us. Having a guy like that, who's real inspiring and won all kinds of medals, present it to us fired us up, I think. We finally got new jerseys. It was awesome."

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