ALCORN STATE, MS -- Alcorn State University welcomes alumni, friends, family and fans back to 1000 ASU Drive for Homecoming 2012, the address synonymous with educating leaders, equipping scholars, and cultivating champions while instilling the importance of faith, family, friends and FUN!
Tailgating has become a part of college football all across the country, but at Alcorn State, for Braves fans it is an art form. Over two-thirds of Braves fans tailgate for six or more hours before every game, and many begin celebrating the great Braves football experience more than 24 hours prior to kickoff.
While some enjoy walking through campus and taking in the picturesque views, beautiful landscape, rolling hills, and state of the art residential facilities, other Braves fans simply enjoy sitting “beneath the shade of giant trees, fanned by a balmy southern breeze,” truly living out the meaning of the words in the Alcorn Ode. In addition, some Braves fans enjoy a different tradition on game day – tailgating. Surrounded by throngs of football fans, tailgating has taken on a life of its own on game day. In the process, it's become tantamount with the college football game day experience. For some, tailgating has become as integral to their day as the game itself.
ASU encourages its fans to come to campus early and enjoy the great tradition of tailgating. We also encourage fans to tailgate in a responsible manner, respectful of the campus and of other Braves fans and fans from visiting schools.
Here are a few important things to know about tailgating to make sure you have the ultimate game day experience!
Where to Go
Plan ahead and check out the different parking areas available around campus. Whether you have a parking pass or not, be sure to follow the signage to your destination lot. Parking attendants are plentiful on game day and are able to help, if necessary
What to Wear
It's not mandatory, but displaying your school allegiance is an important part of any tailgate party. If you're in town to see the Braves play, why not wear your team pride – be it in the form of your favorite Braves shirt, or something else showing your Alcorn pride. For any extra help meeting all your Braves gear needs, head to the Barnes & Nobles Bookstore located in the Student-Union Building (S.U.B).
What to Bring
Grilling
Grilling and tailgating go hand-in-hand. While grilling isn't mandatory on game day, there's nothing quite like enjoying a freshly grilled bratwurst or burger before kickoff. Also, remember to have the appropriate size grill for your party.
Food & Drink
There are a few standards for tailgate food – burgers, brats, and hotdogs top the list. However, variety is important if you're hosting a larger party. Healthy options are a good idea, and believe it or not, not everyone loves burgers and brats! Also, if you are grilling, be sure to have something available to the masses while you're cooking. Chips, pretzels, even a veggie tray will work. Plus, it's always better to be prepared in the event of a grill malfunction. In terms of drinks, it's important to ensure that you have something for everyone.
The Extras
There always seems to be a few little things that people often fail to think about until it's too late. Paper plates and napkins are easy to forget when you're busy preparing ribs and burgers. Chairs are also easy to forget when packing. Tailgate canopies are also great extras – especially in the event of imperfect weather. These little extras can make a big difference at your tailgate, so pack accordingly.
Have Fun!
At the end of the day, you're here for one simple reason – to have fun while enjoying the football game. Don't forget that fact in the midst of all your planning and packing. Don't worry if you forget something – an Alcorn pregame parking lot is one of the friendliest atmospheres in the world. Everyone in your lot is there for the same reason – besides being Alcornites you automatically have something in common!
In the event of an emergency, let a uniformed security officer or lot supervisor know right away. Alcorn State police can be reached at 601.877.3000.
Your Alcorn State Braves will take on the Hornets of Alabama State at Spinks-Casem Stadium at 2:00 p.m. The Braves enters this week competition with a 1-4 record and the Hornets enters this week of play with a 2-2 record.
Again, welcome back to the "yard" and it is our pleasure to have you all celebrate Homecoming 2012 with us! Please enjoy the parade, game, tailgating, concerts and especially the electric Alcorn atmosphere!
