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GoPSUsports.com Monday Mailbag Answers - Oct. 25, 2010

Nov. 1, 2010

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -

David Brown (New York): When will construction begin on the new ice hockey facility?
A: That is a great question, David. The final stages of confirming the architect for the new facility are underway. Once the architect is locked down, the construction process will begin to move more quickly. It is going to be a very exciting process to track over the next couple years. Stay tuned as the details continue to develop.

Tim, Pennsylvania: Is this Saturday's game a Whiteout?
A: Tim, Saturday's game will not be an organized stadium White House. There will not be a stadium-wide White House for the 2010 season. However, it will be a student whiteout for the Michigan game. The entire stadium whiteout is something that is always an impressive sight, but it is looking like the Alabama game in 2011 is a safe bet for the next stadium White House. Nonetheless, I encourage you to wear white and cheer loud on Saturday. We need the 12th man to play a big role in the game.

Rick--Lompoc, CA: Can you comment on the Lion wrestling team competing for a team national title this year (or next)? It looks to me like the team is loaded.
A: Hi, Rick. I am glad to answer your question about the wrestling team. Cael Sanderson made it quite clear to me last week that the Lions want to be the best. This team is loaded with talent, as you mentioned. It was an intense day of practice when I was at Rec Hall. I am expecting some big things from the wrestling team this season. Look for the Lions to be in the mix with some of the nation's elite. We may still be a year away from competing for a national title, but this team has plenty of weapons. Media day for the wrestling team is later this week. Check back on GoPSUsports.com for plenty of coverage. I am looking forward to seeing you in Rec Hall this winter.

Rich (Springfield, Ohio): So, who is going to play quarterback on Saturday?
A: Thanks for the question, Rich. If Rob Bolden is able to play, he will without question be the starter. He is beginning to find a great rhythm in the offense. Bolden was locked in during the first few drives at Minnesota. It was a shame to see him get hurt because it was looking like Saturday was going to be a huge afternoon for the freshman. Nonetheless, Matt McGloin and Kevin Newsome did their part in relief. If Bolden was not able to play, I think you will see both McGloin and Newsome on the field. My guess is that McGloin would start if Bolden is unable to play. It is early in the week, though. Let's wait to see the status of Bolden before we make a prediction.

Catherine (Albrightsville): What is your prediction for the Penn State women's volleyball against Indiana and Purdue this weekend?
A: Catherine, the Nittany Lions are beginning to take a big step forward. Winning two road matches against solid teams (Ohio State and Northwestern) last week has given Penn State a lot of confidence. The Nittany Lions have been unbeatable at Rec Hall over the past few seasons, so my prediction is a pair of sweeps for Coach Rose and the Nittany Lions this weekend.

Sally (Erie): Having traveled with the team, what are the pre/post game meals like and what has been a team favorite?
A: Sally, that is a great question. Before I get into too much detail, let me say that there is plenty of food when you travel with the Nittany Lions. The pregame meals are usually very similar. The squad usually has chicken, steak, potatoes and salad, among other things. Postgame meals take place on the bus ride to the airport and on the plane. That has consisted of Chick-Fil-A or KFC and Subway on the bus. On the charter flight, each player always has a bag of food waiting for him, as well, which is usually sub sandwiches and a few sides. The trip is not complete without the in-flight ice cream bar on the plane ride home. And the ice cream sure tasted good after the victory last Saturday. Needless to say, you don't go home hungry.