Hope coaching against former team

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - Danny Hope is focused on leading the Boilers to their most successful season during his tenure as head coach this year. In order for the Boilers to get the season started off on the right foot, they need to pick up a win in week one over the Eastern Kentucky Colonels which is a team coach Hope is very familiar with. He played college football, received a college degree, and was given his first head coaching position with the Colonels in 2003.

"Anytime you have a chance to go up against your own, you want to make a good impression," said Hope. "I would like for the team where I came from to be proud of the job we have done here at Purdue. So, certainly want to play well and make a good impression on Eastern Kentucky and all those that have come from the program. That comes from a pride standpoint."

During his time as head coach of the Colonels, coach Hope led them to a 35-22 record and a playoff appearance in 2007.

"It meant a lot to me the things that we got done," said Hope. "It meant a lot to me and our fan base and our former players. It was a great experience all the way around."

Hope is now focused on beating his alma mater come Saturday, and showing his former team what he has built here in Boiler Nation.

"I know what is coming in and it is very important to this football team that we start off 1-0, that we play well, and that we play the way we are capable of," said Hope. "We know what our potential can be as a football team this year and the better we play this Saturday it certainly increase our odds of not only winning this Saturday, but it creates momentum and confidence as we roll into the rest of the season."

Kick-off for this Saturday's game against Eastern Kentucky is set for 3:30 pm at Ross-Ade Stadium.