Game Day Task Force gives Pitt State high marks
Thursday, October 6, 2016 2:00 AM
News
Pittsburg, KS
Thousands of alumni and fans are expected to return to Pittsburg State Saturday for the university’s Homecoming football game against Fort Hays State University. For many, it will be their first time to experience Pittsburg State’s simplified tailgating rules, a fact not lost on university officials.
“We believe they’ll like what they see,” said Steve Erwin, vice president for student life. “We’ve worked hard to provide fans an atmosphere that places the focus squarely on safety, fun and personal responsibility.”
Changes to tailgating rules came about thanks to the efforts of a special Game Day Task Force which, following last year’s season, conducted a thorough review of policies and regulations. The group provided a broad list of suggestions that university officials used to develop the new simplified rules.
Task Force members met again last week to conduct a mid-year review of the changes and came away impressed with the university’s progress.
“They’ve exceeded our expectations in every way,” said task force co-chair, Kendall Gammon. “The reorganization of Gorilla Village, clear lanes within the parking lots and addition of Gorilla Grove for students have done what few thought was possible; improved the Gorilla game-day experience. They’ve made tailgating great again.”
Erwin appreciates the kind words, but is quick to credit the hard work of game-day staff and the cooperation of students and the community.
“Our students have really taken ownership of the Gorilla Grove,” said Erwin. “When you walk through the Grove, which I do often, you can see the pride they take in their individual setups. They have the room they need to enjoy the day and they get to be the first group to welcome our team at the start of the Gorilla Walk. I think we’ve created a new Pitt State tradition.”
Parking lots will open at 7 a.m. for Saturday’s Homecoming game. The Homecoming parade will start at 9 a.m. at 8th and Broadway in downtown Pittsburg. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. Game-day tickets are still available at the Pitt State Ticket Office in the Garfield Weede Building, 1701 S. Homer, or online at pittstate.edu/tickets.