Despite Loss, Penn State Fans Excited

UNIVERSITY PARK, CENTRE COUNTY -- Despite losing to Ohio University, many Penn State fans were thrilled just to get the season started.

After all the controversy during Penn State's off-season, some fans might say today's kick-off was the kick-off heard across the country.

"We are so excited to be a part of the Penn State community," said Alanna Figurelli, first-year Penn State student. "Even though we're freshman, we're equally excited as anyone here right now."

For Penn State seniors, there was cautious optimism for the tradition of Penn State.

"I think we're entering a new era," PSU senior Will Martin said. "The Penn State pride will always be there, it has also been there in the past, it's not going to change."

"It's something nobody can take away from us," Martin's friend added. "It's a a love for Penn State in our hearts, and nothing can change that."

While some worried about the resiliency of the school, its spirit and tradition, for some of the younger fans, Penn State is still part of the future.

"I go here every year, my cousin used to be the nittany lion and stuff," said Charlie Hastings, a young Penn State fan from New York. "It's in my family blood, I just want to go here."

Penn State lost to Ohio University, 24-14.

Its next game is Sept. 8 against the University of Virginia in Charlottesville.