Garrett Eagan
Sports Editor
A college football game is synonymous with many sights and sounds. But along with the tradition of football on the Hill, in which only some may participate, there is another tradition in which all students and faculty may participate.
Tailgating on the Hill is a very unique aspect of the football season. Carpe Diem Stadium is not a typical stadium atmosphere that one would traditionally expect. However, as many students explain, that doesn’t take away from the Saturday afternoon atmosphere at the game.
“Considering we have never done anything to have more stadium seats, tailgating is the best alternative?It makes McDaniel unique,” said sophomore John Maddrey. His view is echoed amongst his fellow incoming sophomores. “The difference is that people on the Hill move around. You have friends in different places so you go hit them up,” said sophomore Andrew Rauch. Even though McDaniel doesn’t have a complete stadium setting, this caters to students and families who wish to set up tents and barbeques. But what ingredients go into making a McDaniel tailgate complete?
“Obviously a cooler and cups for the beverages,” said Jamie De Atley. Also a sophomore at McDaniel, De Atley added the need for bratwursts, or some other type of meat. Cooking is celebrated throughout those who tailgate, cooking anything from brats and hamburgers, to steak and corn. Tailgating isn’t complete without a large meal according to Maddrey. Team colors are also a must as stressed by those participating. Rauch points to having a truck. Without one, “it’s not really tailgating,” he said. Those who do park their vehicles near the field have to wake up early to get a spot.
“I had to wake up at like 8 a.m.,” said senior James Isaminger. Even though this may seem like a pain, it illustrates how the tight-knit setting at Green Terror games is valued by tailgaters. Students scream and cheer for their team until the final second has elapsed, no matter the outcome. And students are not the only ones who enjoy tailgating either.
The crowd is littered with alumni, parents, and even the overlooked members of the McDaniel community. As Rauch explained, “You may run into one of your professors who are having a good time [drinking] just like you.” Join the tailgate and mark your calendars for September 13th, as the Terror battle Moravian, a Centennial Conference rival at home!