Penn State Football: Despite Volcanic Rumbles It’s Still Full Speed Ahead For Dublin

Despite some early morning rumbles from the Icelandic volcano Bardarbunga, both Penn State and UCF remain focused on their pending trip to Dublin.

Penn State released a statement earlier Saturday afternoon.

“Over the past several days we have been talking with officials from UCF, the GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association) and United Airlines, our charter provider. We continue to monitor the situation and maintain regular communication with all appropriate parties. The safety and welfare of our student-athletes, staff and fans will be at the forefront throughout our discussions. At this time, we are continuing our preparations for the game and for the team to depart Tuesday evening for Dublin.”

Since Friday morning the area under and surrounding Bardarbunga has experienced hundreds of earthquakes including several above the 4.0 magnitude according to geologists monitoring the situation.

Early Saturday morning it was believed that magma had reached the surface below the glacial region near Bardarbunga. Later reports out of the region are questioning whether an actual eruption has taken place below the ice but acknowledge that one could still be in the works.

Sources within the Penn State football program continue to stress that while the situation is being closely followed, Penn State continues to operate under the assumption that the Nittany Lions will play next weekend’s season opener in Dublin.

UCF coach George O’Leary told reporters Saturday morning that alternative plans are in place if flying no longer becomes an option. Neither he nor Penn State have expanded on possible alternative plans.

As always, StateCollege.com will continue to monitor the situation.

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