Pittsburg State adds new options for Gorilla Tailgating

  Thursday, August 11, 2016 2:00 AM
  News

Pittsburg, KS

Gorilla fans will soon have more options when it comes to tailgating at Pittsburg State University. University officials today announced an expansion of dedicated tailgating space within Gorilla Village and the areas surrounding the university’s famed Gorilla Walk.

Large corporate tents will be moved to the south of the Gorilla Walk in order to provide more space for family tailgating and a new, student-focused, tailgating area will be created just south of the Weede parking lot.  

In addition, live music acts will be given a more prominent space at the entrance to Gorilla Village and additional family-friendly activities will be added within the village.

“The Gorilla Walk, University Lake and Carnie Smith Stadium are some of the best backdrops for tailgating in the nation,” said Steve Erwin, vice president for student life. “Expanding our tailgating will allow more fans to enjoy these areas with family and friends.”

The improvements are a result last year’s Gorilla Game Day Task Force. The task force was charged with reviewing the university’s tailgating policies and providing recommendations for improvements. Those recommendations also included a simplification of tailgating policies, which the university announced last month.

“This group did a tremendous job of examining Pitt State tailgating,” said Erwin. “They focused on personal responsibility and the fan experience. I’m looking forward to seeing their hard work put into action.”

Of particular note is the addition of a new tailgating area known as “Gorilla Grove.” This area will be located just south of the Weede parking lot and primarily cater to students. A limited number of tents will be made available for students to rent within Gorilla Grove. The tents will cost $10 and be set-up in advance. Students may rent these tents through the Pitt State ticket office beginning August 22.

“It’s a convenient and affordable way for students to enjoy traditional tailgating in an area designed for them,” said Erwin. “It also placed more activity at the beginning of the Gorilla Walk. We’re hoping it becomes a new destination for students and fans of all ages.”

To celebrate the creation of Gorilla Grove, the university has secured the talents of the Wichita-based Adam Capps Band to perform in the Grove for the home opener.

Pittsburg State will open the 2016 season by hosting the University of Central Missouri on Thursday, Sept. 1 at 7 p.m. Individual game tickets are available online or at the Pittsburg State ticket office located inside the Garfield Weede Building.

A full listing of tailgating rules and FAQs is available at www.pittstate.edu/GameDay