After the first day of school Wednesday, the class of 2018 and other students gathered at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium to ring in the new football season at the “Texas Kickoff Rally.”

The event, part of “Longhorn Welcome,” featured new head football coach Charlie Strong, who was hired in January.

Before Strong arrived at the event with freshman players, Longhorn Network anchor Lowell Galindo opened the event, telling the crowd to cheer on the team. 

“There are two things that Coach Strong doesn’t like: a soft football team and an unenthusiastic crowd,” Galindo said. “One of those things we will be able to control.”

Cheerleaders, band members and other spirit organizations shared facts about Texas football and led the audience through cheers and songs.

The crowd gave a warm welcome to Strong, Powers and freshman quarterback Jerrod Heard. Strong was upbeat and encouraged everyone to be positive Saturday against North Texas.

“Heading into this game, we will need all of your support to help lead us to a victory,” Strong said.

After the rally, freshmen took the field for the official class photo.

Aimed at accommodating new students to the University, “Longhorn Welcome” began Friday with “Mooov-in” and will conclude next Wednesday with “Party on the Plaza.”