First 30,000 fans will get ‘Hep’ buttons

Terry Hoeppner will be long remembered within the IU community for his character and personality. For those looking for a keepsake to remember the late coach will get their opportunity this Saturday night.\nThe first 30,000 fans in attendance for the IU-Indiana State game will receive a free ‘Hep’ button. The button handed out will be the same size and color as a patch the Hoosiers will wear on their uniforms all season as a tribute to Hoeppner.\n“I think (the button) honors the memory that Coach Hep tried to instill in Bloomington, bringing people together to rally around the football team,” senior Mark Fruin said. “It’s better than a bobble head.”\nIn addition to passing out buttons, there is a ceremony scheduled to take place 30 minutes before kickoff honoring the Hoosiers’ beloved late head coach. Hoeppner’s family is expected to be present at the ceremony, which will be held after warm-ups and is expected to last about five minutes.\n“Terry’s impact on Indiana football is everlasting,” IU Athletics Director Rick Greenspan said in a statement. “I believe it is important to remember him in a manner that is dignified and best represents his spirit.” \nHoeppner is credited with creating an excitement about Hoosier football during his two seasons as head coach. He coined the phrase “Defend the Rock” and constantly pushed for more students to attend games by putting his face on ‘Coach Hep Wants You’ posters that were distributed all over Bloomington.\n“I think the buttons are a great idea,” said junior Chris Hill. “To me, no coach since Bobby Knight seemed as liked as Terry Hoeppner. He was a core part of the IU football program, and he was a great guy, too.”