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ELON, N.C. -- Freshmen members of the Elon football team donned their maroon home jerseys for the first time ever on Sunday and did it in a place they will never forget.  The players were not on the gridiron before a key Southern Conference showdown, but were at Camp Lejeune visiting with members of the Wounded Warrior Brigade.

The Phoenix showed up in time to deliver lunch and spent time learning about the Marines and hearing their stories.  Needless to say, the football players were in awe of these men who have fought and sacrificed for their country.

"It was fun to watch our players interact with the Marines," said Elon head coach Jason Swepson.  "They were all eager and happy to come down here and spend time with these guys.  I think there were some friendships formed and we're looking forward to having some of these servicemen come to campus for a game this fall.  Our players definitely learned that there is more to life than football after spending a few hours with these heroes."

Following lunch and socializing, the group moved outside where a very competitive five-on-five game of two-hand touch football ensued.

This trip also provided the Phoenix freshmen with a good bonding opportunity in their early days on campus and this is a tradition that Swepson hopes to continue in the future.