ORONO – The University of Maine football team has generated plenty of excitement among its fans in recent years.

Coach Jack Cosgrove’s Black Bears, who are amidst one of the most successful four-year spans in program history, made consecutive NCAA Division I-AA playoff appearances in 2001 and 2002.

This week, 18th-ranked UMaine (0-1) is preparing for its first home game of the season Saturday at 6 p.m. on Morse Field at Alfond Stadium against No. 23 Northern Colorado (1-0).

If the anticipation of the home opener weren’t enough, UMaine is giving area youngsters and other prospective fans more reasons to get on the Black Bear bandwagon.

“Once people come out here, they enjoy it and see it’s a good time,” said UMaine Athletic Marketing and Promotions Director Shaun Russell. “We’re just trying to build on that.”

Saturday is “Military Appreciation Day” at UMaine, where members of the armed services and family members can buy tickets for $5 and receive a 15 percent discount on merchandise at the Bear Necessities athletic store.

In addition, members of the Maine Army National Guard are sponsoring a free cookout and tailgate event with hot dogs and drinks, starting at 3-4:30 p.m., that is open to the public. The Guard will have a replica of the No. 16 NASCAR stock car driven by Greg Biffle and also will have military vehicles on display.

The UMaine marching band will present a patriotic halftime tribute as part of its show.

“We want to pay tribute to the folks who serve the country and protect us,” Russell said.

UMaine has initiated a game-day program designed to provide fun and entertainment for young fans. The “OHI KidZone,” sponsored by OHI Children’s Services, gives kids another form of diversion prior to games and during halftime.

The KidZone, which will be located beyond the north end zone, features inflatable equipment and a Velcro wall. The area is staffed by UMaine student-athletes. The men’s and women’s ice hockey teams will be joined by the swimming and diving squads this weekend.

“The student-athlete interaction, that’s a big thing for us,” Russell said. “We want to get them out into our fan base and community so the kids can hang out with them and talk to them when they’re there.”

Saturday’s opener, also designated “Youth Day,” entitles fans age 17 and under to purchase a ticket for $5.

“We try to make it as affordable as we can. We think families are our best market.”

Pregame ceremonies will feature the unveiling of a new version of the UMaine mascot, “Bananas the Bear.” Russell said the new “Bananas” has been redesigned with a costume that will allow him to be more active, more acrobatic and more entertaining.”

Russell said football season ticket sales, which increased significantly last year, are on the rise again this season. Season ticket packages start as low as $25 for five home games, while the Black Bear Family Pack includes two adult and three youth tickets for $125.

There is a wealth of information about UMaine athletics and promotions on the Web site at www.GoBlackBears.com. Tickets can be purchased by calling 581-2327 or 1-800-756-8326.