Local Sports

UNIVERSITY CITY, N.C. -- It's the rush 49er fans have waited for, UNC-Charlotte trustees voted to start a football program at Thursday's meeting.

"Over three years we've been kind of sitting at the edge of our seats and today is a culmination of the work that we've done," said alumnus Mandeep Gill, who helped generate support for the football program.

Athletic Director Judy Rose had to hold back tears.

"It's the most emotional day I think I've had in the history of our program at UNC-Charlotte," she said.

The university will now start a marketing blitz.

"It's stepping off the sidelines and being a part of something bigger," said the announcer of a promotional video showed at the Thursday's meeting.

It will take about $45 million to build new facilities in order to kick off the first season by fall of 2013.

"I'm optimistic even in a bad economy," said Rose. "Philanthropy usually survives well even in times of turmoil."

An on-campus stadium alone could cost $21 million. The 49ers might have to play their first few season at Memorial Stadium but renovations would be required.

"This is a historical moment and decision," Rose added. "This is something that can tie the city to us and us to the city."