Indiana University of Pennsylvania Athletics

The background and genesis of the Coal Bowl began in 2009 when California alumnus Bob Lippencott (class of 1966) and his brother Barry, a 1967 graduate of IUP, established football scholarships to their respective universities. As part of their initiatives, the families have donated a “Coal Pail” trophy that is presented to the winner of the rivalry between the two PSAC member institutions. Originally from Brownsville, Pa., the Lippencott family has a long history of working in the coal industry and felt this game would be an excellent platform in which to honor their families, respective universities and the coal industry.

“This trophy is to honor the coal miner,” the Lippencott brothers said. “Coal miners are a special breed; every day they face danger, routine hardships and difficult work. They work underground in a dangerous environment doing a job that many do not envy.

“In creating these scholarships, we wanted to recognize and offer a thank you to the universities that have played a major role in the successes we’ve had in our personal and professional lives. The work ethic reinforced in the football programs, combined with the work ethic we gained working in the coal mining area, certainly carried over into our lives” the Lippencotts added.

The Pennsylvania Coal Alliance will once again be the Presenting Sponsor of the game Other sponsors are Original Fuels and Rosebud Mining Company

Following the game, the winning team will receive the Lippencott Brothers Coal Miner’s Pail Trophy, which will be presented by the Lippencott brothers, to the winning university president and football coach. Additionally, the Lippencott brothers will also present a trophy to the Most Valuable Player.