USC President Andrew Sorensen is urging fans to wear their Gamecock colors September 1 as part of national College Colors Day 2006.

"This year, I'm asking all Gamecock fans to join with our fellow Southeastern Conference institutions in wearing their favorite college colors to support higher education, athletics, and the scholarship money that athletics generates," Sorensen said.

To open its 2006 football campaign, Carolina plays Mississippi State University in Starkville, Miss. on August 31.

This year, S.C. Gov. Mark Sanford has issued a proclamation that also promotes September 1 as the day for South Carolinians to wear apparel of their favorite college to raise awareness of higher education's achievements and positive impact on the Palmetto State.

Initiated by the Collegiate Licensing Company, College Colors Day occurs as students are returning to campus and as intercollegiate athletics teams begin new seasons.

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