BYU and University of Utah Launch 2008-09 Season of Deseret First Duel

Let the Duel begin.

The first matchup of the 2008-09 Deseret First Duel is Saturday, Oct. 4, 7 p.m., when the University of Utah hosts Brigham Young University in a Mountain West Conference women's soccer match. Six points will be awarded to the winner.

The Deseret First Duel began in September 2007 as a way for BYU, the University of Utah, and Deseret First Credit Union to celebrate this spirited rivalry that dates back to the 1890s. Until last year, there had been no established means to recognize the overall athletic supremacy of the Cougars or the Utes. Now, the university that wins the Deseret First Duel has its name engraved on large granite monuments located at both schools and, most importantly, holds bragging rights for the following year.

Here's how the Deseret First Duel works: BYU and Utah compete against each other in baseball, men's and women's basketball, football, women's gymnastics, women's soccer, softball, men's and women's tennis, women's volleyball, and men's and women's swimming. Points are awarded to the school that wins each game, meet, or match. A team trophy will also be presented to the winner in each sport. The university that scores that scores the first 33 of the total of 65 ½ points will claim the Deseret First Duel championship in April 2009. BYU narrowly defeated Utah to win the inaugural Deseret First Duel in 2007-08.

"We've been talking about formalizing a rivalry series for several years now, and it's really exciting to see it become a reality. The Utah-BYU rivalry is widely recognized as one of the nation's best in terms of competitiveness and fan interest," said University of Utah Director of Athletics Dr. Chris Hill. The rivalry series will serve as another avenue for fans of both schools to show their involvement and enthusiasm. I see the competition as a great way to grow the intensity of the rivalry in a positive fashion."

Deseret First Credit Union is proud to sponsor the excellent athletic programs of both universities and the values they represent. Though the Deseret First Duel may seem like it just adds more fuel to an already white-hot inferno, Deseret First is thrilled to be a part of this energetic, frenzied rivalry.

Good luck to both the Cougars and Utes in the 2008-09 Deseret First Duel.

© 2008 Deseret First Credit Union