Fall marks the start of football season, and with that comes a trail of social events that surround the sport. Football is a significant aspect of college, especially for students. College football unites students and brings them together over their shared love and pride for their school and their community.
During these events, a lot is going on from the game on the field, the social scene in the student section and the tailgate parties. “I like going to the football games for the school spirit, listening to the marching band, cheering and socializing with friends,” Grace Harper, senior hospitality major, said.
There is much more that happens at a football game that has less to do with the sport and everything to do with the crowd. “I personally like watching football but the environment and the people are fun to be around,” Kayla Gumke, law and justice grad student, said. “I usually like going to the games with my roommates and hanging out with friends while watching the game.”
Many people attend these events for different reasons whether that’s for the game, the music or the people. “Me, personally, I’m not the biggest fan of football and I don’t really know how to keep score but it’s fun socially, just to be there with your friends,” Harper said. A considerable amount of the social scene around football is tailgating.
Tailgating is a social event, usually in front of the football field or the parking lot before and during game time. This is when people get to know each other and celebrate their mutual support for the team and the sport. “I feel like you don’t realize how big the school is,” Harper said. “I feel like I always see the same people in class so it’s nice to see everyone there and meet new people.”
Tailgating is great for meeting people with similar interests and commonalities you wouldn’t have known or met otherwise. “My experience tailgating is always fun, especially if you show up early enough to feel like you have plenty of time,” Max Reeves, 2024 alumnus, said. “It’s cool because it’s a way to be around lots of fans before the game steals our attention away in the stands. It gives fans the chance to interact with other fans more directly and celebrate the team with more than just close friends.”
Tailgating is a typical way for someone to enhance their overall game day experience. “I think tailgating is the perfect way to blend the personal hangout with the public hangout,” Reeves said. “You’re out amongst a bunch of other people but you still have your own space, your friends, your games and drinks, but you still get the energy of the stadium.” These events are helpful for building relationships, making friends and fostering a sense of community.
Next tailgating opportunity will take place on Oct. 25 as the ‘Cats take on Midwestern State for their homecoming game following a 31-0 road victory against Texas A&M Kingsville.
