Troy Univ. Football Schedule Set: City Expects Huge Economic Boost

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By Jessica Gertler

Story Created: Jun 26, 2012 at 5:20 PM CDT

Story Updated: Jun 26, 2012 at 5:37 PM CDT

Troy University finalizes its football schedule for 2012 and 2013. Alcorn State, Navy and for the first time ever an SEC school, Mississippi State, will visit Veterans Memorial Stadium. City officials are predicting the games will bring more financial victories to Troy.

Troy University's football season will be here in ten weeks. This year, the school will host six home games including Navy and Mississippi State. City leaders are predicting both games will bring a tremendous economic boost to the city.

"The Navy weekend may be the biggest weekend we've ever had," says Troy Mayor Jimmy Lunsford. "The Navy has already leased Sartain Hall, the old gym, and they anticipate having well over a thousand people here."

Lunsford says planning has begun. Troy is hosting United States Naval Academy on November 10, and Mississippi State will visit Veterans Memorial Stadium on September 15.

Records from the City Clerk's Office show a home conference game weekend brings roughly $1 million into Troy.

But Lunsford is predicting Navy and Mississippi State will hit record numbers. Most of the money falling into the hands of local businesses.

"We'll have all the motels full. Restaurants will have a tremendous amount of business. Gas stations will sell a lot of gas," Lunsford says.

Troy fans of all ages are circling the home games on their calendars.

"It's a big thing to have an SEC school and a military academy to come to Troy and play them. It would be even bigger if we win," says Troy fan Jaxon Lee.

Troy University is planning a tailgate at every home game and four of the away games. Organizers say they will include live entertainment and possibly an outdoor photo booth.

"It's going to be a really good atmosphere. Everybody is going to be pumped and ready," says Troy fan Kyle Hudson.

November 10, which is the day Navy plays at Troy, is also the Marine Corps' Birthday. Lunsford is expecting even more people will be making the trip to Troy to celebrate.

Lunsford says Sikorsky is flying the Naval Hawk Helicopter over Veterans Memorial Stadium before the Navy vs. Troy kickoff.

For Troy's 2012 Schedule: http://www.troytrojans.com/schedule.aspx?path=football

For Troy's 2013 Schedule: http://www.troytrojans.com/news/2012/6/26/FB_0626121507.aspx?path=football
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