'Bowl atmosphere' awaits Penn State seniors at casinos

A group made up mostly of members of Penn State's Lettermen's Club and alumni has organized a gathering at two Atlantic City casinos of football seniors whose eligibility has expired.

The event, called the Rise and Rally Bowl, will take place Jan. 5-7 at the Trump Taj Mahal and the Showboat. Its purpose, according to a press release, is to allow the seniors to "enjoy a bowl-like atmosphere" since the team is prohibited from postseason play because of NCAA sanctions.

Letterman's Club president Tim Sweeney said in the release that organizers will pay for rooms and meals of all the seniors who attend.

Penn State compliance officials are reviewing the event and are "in the process of making sure that all proposed activities align with Big Ten and NCAA rules," athletic department spokesman Jeff Nelson said.

Mark Brennan, the editor of the Fight On State website and a spokesman for the event, said Tuesday that organizers have been in contact with compliance people to make sure rules are being followed.

Brennan said that annually, Nittany Lions seniors had delayed speaking with agents until after the bowl game. But with no bowl, that process already is under way.

"Matt McGloin, they're advertising an autograph show for him in his hometown where he'll be paid," he said. "So it's not like we're doing anything completely unusual here."

Nittany notes. Bill O'Brien was named a finalist for Liberty Mutual coach of the year award. . . . The Maxwell Football Club announced that Penn State seniors would be honored with the Thomas Brookshier Spirit award for their "commitment, character and effort" during the season, club president Ron Jaworski said. . . . Senior fullback Michael Zordich has accepted an invitation to the NFL Players Association Collegiate Bowl on Jan. 19 at the Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif.