PSU Game Day Traditions
Pittsburg State University offers fans and visitors one of the best Game Day experiences in the nation. Are the Carnie Smith Stadium you will find community tailgating, live entertainment, family-friendly activities, delicious food, and winningest NCAA Division II football program in the nation.
Gorilla Walk
Before kick-off, fans line the pathway between the Robert W. Plaster Center and Carnie Smith Stadium to cheer on the Gorillas. Players and coaches reach up to touch the hand of the 2,000-lb. bronze Gorilla for luck.
Directly after the GorillaWalk, The Pride of the Plains Marching Band, the Pitt Cheer Squad and the Crimson and Gold Dancers perform the university’s fight song, special cheers, and a unique version of “Welcome to the Jungle”.
Fans are encouraged to take part in the traditional “Pitt – State” chant and cheer along with the nationally recognized Pitt Cheer Squad. Don’t be surprised if a Crimson and Gold Dancer pulls you into the line to dance along with them. It’s all part of the fun of Gorilla GameDay!
ROTC Cannon
The sounds of cannon fire are normal sounds during Gorilla GameDays. Pittsburg State’s ROTC Gorilla Battalion brings its 75 mm Pack Howitzer to every game. The cannon is fired at kickoff and after every Gorilla touchdown.
The ROTC Gorilla Battalion displays its strength by performing a pushup for every point the Gorillas score. In true Army fashion, the pushups are cumulative so 35 points on the scoreboard equals 105 pushups.
At times, you’ll find ROTC Battalion members holding the Gorilla board above their heads and in the stands for a special cadet to perform pushups. It’s a fan-favorite tradition.
Gorilla Grove
Several years ago, the University established a special tailgating location for students known as Gorilla Grove. It's located in the parking lot at the corner of McPherson Drive and Homer Street (west of the Weede Building), along with the green space lawn around the parking lot to the west and south sides.
Gorilla Grove allows students to be the first to greet the Gorilla football players as they follow the Pride of the Plains Marching Band from their locker room in the Plaster Center to the stadium on the traditional Gorilla Walk.
Parking a vehicle in Gorilla Grove costs $5, but walk-up admission to the area is free.
- Parking
- FAQ's
- Policies
- Emergency Info
- Tradition & Points of Interest
Pittsburg State University offers nine parking lots conveniently located within walking distance of Carnie Smith Stadium.
To fully experience Gorilla GameDay, we recommend taking part in our many traditions.
Whether you are a visitor or a member of Gorilla Nation, these policies will help you get the most out of Gorilla GameDay while staying safe.
Providing a fun and family-friendly atmosphere is second only to ensuring your safety while on our campus.
Gorilla GameDays offer something for everyone. Tremendous tailgating, live entertainment, family-friendly activities, delicious food and, of course, the best stadium and winningest NCAA Division II football program in the nation.