For the first time since joining the Pioneer Football League in 2001, Jacksonville will play every team in the conference, getting home games with defending I-AA Mid-Major national champion San Diego on Nov. 4, as well as PFL powers Dayton (Oct. 14) and Drake (Nov. 11).

“We have a very challenging schedule in front of us, but it’s one that we’re ready for and one that our fans can get excited about,” said JU head coach Steve Gilbert. “We will crown a true conference champion this year as we play everyone in the PFL for the first time and the race for the title will be very exciting as well.”

Jacksonville’s 2006 campaign begins on Sept. 2 with Big South power Gardner-Webb visiting D.B. Milne Field for the first time. The Dolphins will then host Edward Waters on Sept. 9 as the two teams meet on the field for the first time since 2002.

The Dolphins then begin a four-game road swing, starting with a trip to Southeast Louisiana to make up for last year’s game that was cancelled due to Hurricane Katrina.

Jacksonville then opens PFL play on Sept. 23 at Butler, followed by a Sept. 30 visit to Valparaiso and an Oct. 7 date with rival Davidson.

The Dolphins return home to face PFL power Dayton on Oct. 14 before hitting the road for the next two weeks. JU heads to Morehead State on Oct. 21 and then plays its final non-conference game of the year at North Greenville on Oct. 28.

Jacksonville then wraps up its season at home the final two weeks. The Dolphins open the homestand with defending PFL champion San Diego on Nov. 4 and end the season on Nov. 11 against Drake.

2006 Jacksonville University Football Schedule

Sept. 2 GARDNER-WEBB 12:30 p.m.

Sept. 9 EDWARD WATERS 12:30 p.m.

Sept. 16 at Southeast Louisiana TBA

Sept. 23 * at Butler TBA

Sept. 30 * at Valparaiso TBA

Oct. 7 * at Davidson TBA

Oct. 14 * DAYTON 12:30 p.m.

Oct. 21 * at Morehead State TBA

Oct. 28 at North Greenville TBA

Nov. 4 * SAN DIEGO 12:30 p.m.

Nov. 11 * DRAKE 12:30 p.m.