november2008-april2009
 |
Tailgating 101 Tailgating can simply be described as fans getting pumped up for their team in the parking lot prior to entering the stadium. The spirit that you bring to the game begins at your tailgate. Fans come from all over the bay-area to take part in pre-game festivites. “The parking lot is a classic block party,” says longtime fan and tailgater Chris Merritt of Land ‘O Lakes. “Everyone tries to outdo other tailgaters, but you just can’t cast judgment. “ You’ll see the tailgating group with the “Mack-Daddy” Motor Coach – with the plasma TV and gourmet food – parked next to someone with a small Weber grill cooking burgers and hot dogs with chips and dip. Just have a good time - it’s all good!” The most important factor is to put your worries and concerns aside and kick back, relax and get ready to watch your USF Bulls play smash mouth, exciting football and emerge victories. There is nothing better than walking back to your car after a hard-fought victory from the home team and continuing the party in the parking lot. It’s always fun to claim winners rights to rival fans in the parking lots, but remember you are representing your team, so show good sportsmanship. For YOUR convenience as a tailgater, we at Gear Up For the Game have developed a simple checklist to go through the day before and prepare as much as your can for your tailgate. Tailgating Checklist Rule #1 – Literally, GEAR UP FOR THE GAME! Wear your team colors and jerseys!
|
Homegating – Tailgate in the comfort of your own home The majority of fans watch the game from home. These fans say that you just can’t beat laying back in your recliner chair and relaxing in the cool A/C in front of your 52 inch Plasma Screen TV. Seasoned homegater Beth Phillips of Brooksville said recently, “Almost everything is already in place for an enjoyable ‘homegate.’” You make the rules when you homegate. You plan and make your own food. You don’t have to wait in any long lines. Most importantly, you have your own private bathroom. The heat at a professional sporting event can elevate to temperature near 100 degrees depending on where you are, especially in Florida. This is when Air-Conditioning becomes so crucial. Like Dorothy from the ‘Wizard of Oz’ said, “There’s no place like home!” Tailgating at home can be as simple or elaborate as you want. You can cater in, or even make a last minute phone call to order pizza to arrive just in time for half time. You can prepare and serve and elaborate exotic buffet or even just kick back with your buddies and enjoy a cold beverage. Like any successful event, preparation and planning is paramount. Homegating is easier than tailgating as far an preparations and supplies go and you don’t even have to leave your house. It’s all personal preference, the most important thing is to support your favorite team and have a great time. In addition to Gear Up For The Game’s “Tailgating Checklist”, we have devised a “Homegating Checklist.” Refer to it before every game and we promise your Homegate will be a success! HOMEGATING CHECKLIST
|