COMMERCE, Texas – Texas A&M University-Commerce will host the third annual Harvey Martin Classic on Sept. 11 at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas. The excitement surrounding the 2010 game is becoming apparent as the Lions prepare for their matchup against Angelo State at 5 p.m. in the historic stadium.

“The team is excited that their families can come see the game and don’t have to travel too far,” said Lions wide receiver Taylor Fore. “Playing in the Cotton Bowl is special to all of the guys, as well as being able to run out of the tunnel onto the field, and being a part of history.”

The Lions are creating their own history at the Cotton Bowl, posting a 7-1 record all-time, including a 1-1 mark in Harvey Martin Classic games. A&M-Commerce defeated East Central in the inaugural Harvey Martin Classic prior to last year’s 20-14 overtime loss to No. 2 Abilene Christian.

“We’re trying our best to be better each year and hopefully we will be fun to watch again,” Fore said. “The fans’ support helps get us going. When they are up cheering and being loud, we definitely respond to that.”

A&M-Commerce will look to return to its winning ways in this year’s game while honoring the great Harvey Martin, the former East Texas State and Dallas Cowboys standout. Martin was inducted into the university’s Hall of Fame in 1987, and became the first A&M-Commerce athlete to be selected for the Texas Sports Hall of Fame in 2009.

Events leading up to the game kick off with the Harvey Martin Classic on Wednesday, Sept. 8, at noon in the Dallas City Hall Flag Room. The luncheon will be held on Sept. 9 at noon at the Sheraton Dallas Hotel with guest speaker Gene Stallings sharing his experiences on and off the field. The golf tournament wraps up the pregame festivities on Friday, Sept. 10, at The Golf Club at Castle Hills in Lewisville prior to Saturday’s matchup.

“The team enjoys meeting with alumni and fans that come to the game or the events surrounding the game,” Fore said. “We enjoy the opportunity to hear stories from alumni and continue their traditions. It’s just a blessing and as long as we can continue playing in the Harvey Martin Classic, it will be a great for players, students and fans to experience.”

For tickets and sign up information for the luncheon, golf tournament and football game, visit www.harveymartinclassic.com or call 903-886-5558.