University officials estimate around 8,500 fans came out to get their first look at the 2009 installment of the Appalachian State football team on Saturday afternoon at Fan Fest.

Before scrimmaging, players and coaches were available for pictures and autographs.  Inflatables and other children’s games were also on hand.

Because the Apps’ senior quarterback Armanti Edwards remained sidelined Saturday because of a foot injury, fans had a chance to check out the Black and Gold’s sophomore quarterbacks, Travaris Cadet and DeAndre Presley.  Both looked impressive in leading the Mountaineer offense.  Sophomore running back Cedric Baker also raised a few eyebrows, collecting 144 all-purpose yards and two touchdowns.

On the defensive side of the ball, redshirt freshman Dominique McDuffie led all players with four tackles, according to www.GoASU.com.  All-American defensive backs Mark LeGree and Cortez Gilbert did not participate in Saturday’s scrimmage.

The Mountaineers open their season on Saturday, September 5, in Greenville as they tangle with the East Carolina Pirates.