FAMU Coach Holmes' big plan starts with the fans

COURTESY FAMU ATHLETICS

TALLAHASSEE, Florida  --  Earl Holmes is putting the onus for digging FAMU athletics out of a financial hole squarely on himself and the football team he will lead next season in his first year as a head coach.

Holmes, a former linebacker for the Rattlers during an era when winning championships was the norm, was hired 10 days ago as the 16th head coach in the program’s history. He takes over at a time when FAMU’s athletics department is facing a financial deficit to the tune of more than $7 million.

Holmes said he couldn’t disclose all of the plans he has for promoting and marketing the Rattlers’ football program until his four-year contract, with an annual salary of $200,000, is approved next month by FAMU’s Board of Trustees. However, he said a big part is to bring fans back to Bragg Stadium.

“It all starts with winning,” Holmes said. “We are going to do our part. We will make sure that we play the type of football that excites people.”

The former FAMU defensive coordinator, who took over as acting head coach late last season, said a passionate fan base impacts more than just the bottom line. He believes their support can also lead to improved play on the field.

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FAMU Community Welcomes Earl Holmes With Rally

TALLAHASSEE, Florida  –  Rattler fans, make sure you don't miss the official FAMU Athletics welcome of Earl Holmes as the 16th head coach of FAMU football. The community welcome rally will be held at The Moon (1105 E. Lafayette St., Tall., Fl. 32301).

Leon County Commissioner Bill Proctor and "The Almighty" Joe Bullard are the hosts of the affair. Admission to the event is absolutely FREE. There will be free hors d'eouvres, live music and door prizes.

In addition, you can visit the table of the FAMU Foundation to offer a donation to the football program. The Rattler Boosters will also be there, so you can renew your Booster memberships.

FAMU Athletics would like to challenge all fans to support our efforts. Let's make 2013 a banner year for donations and a record year for our Rattler Boosters.

COURTESY FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION