Mountaineer maniacs ready for the Coal Rush and Iowa State

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – When the Mountaineers face the 11th-ranked Iowa State Cyclones on Saturday, they will wear their new all-black jersey to commemorate the state's coal mining heritage.

The Coal Rush uniform for players consists of a black helmet, black jerseys and black pants.

The largest student group on campus, The Mountaineer Maniacs, is encouraging the student body to show up in black at Milan's Puskar Stadium on Saturday to show their respect and support for the gold and blue, according to executive director Tyler Faulstick.

“Given the deep-rooted history of West Virginia and the coal mines, I think there is a community behind this game,” Faulstick said.

Sales of “Coal Rush” merchandise and apparel were strong; In fact, his all-black jersey won't be released until later this year. With that in mind, Faulstick expects there will be a strong display of blackness, respect and pride at the stadium.

“I have the 'Built on Bravery' sweatshirt and also the hat that I wear,” Faulstick said. “I couldn’t get the jersey; they went really fast. But. I bought one and it will be here by Christmas.”

The Mountaineer community is excited to share its identity and heritage with a nationwide audience, and Faulstick said there will be a strong Black presence on game day.

“When you go to WVU, you’re obviously a Mountaineer and you love West Virginia,” Faulstick said. “The ability to represent that on such a high stage is really cool.”

On the field, Faulstick hopes fans can give the Mountaineers the edge with an overwhelming Coal Rush presence and plenty of noise.

“I think you have to engage with the fans; “The fans will be crazy and the hype will be big,” Faulstick said.

Nine hours of MetroNews GameDay coverage begins Saturday at 4 p.m.