Tarleton sports fan survival guide

BY CAROLINE CRAIN

News Editor

From packed stands to roaring crowds, game days at Tarleton State University are an experience like no other. But a great game day always starts with being prepared.

Whether you’re heading to a football game, a soccer match or any of Tarleton’s many sporting events, we’ve got the tips you need to survive—and even thrive—on game day.

Bring your ticket

Your ticket into the event is step one for attending any sporting event. If you’re a current member of Tarleton, such as a student or staff member, you can claim your free ticket online. If you’re not a student or faculty, or if you want to reserve special seating, you’ll need to buy one.

If you have your Texan Card, it can serve as a general admission ticket into the event and can even be used to grab some snacks from the concession stand if you have Texan Bucks.

Arrive early for the best seat in the house

We all know the best spots fill up fast, especially for big games. If you’re going for general seating and want to get a prime spot with an awesome view, show up early and snag your seat before the rush. Arriving early can also give you a chance to watch warmups, beat the concession lines and soak in the pre-game atmosphere.

Dress for the Weather

No one wants to be caught in a downpour or roasting under the sun during a game, especially for outdoor sports, so prepare for the elements.

Early season fall games heat up quickly, so dressing lightly and staying cool is important for your health and safety. For spring matches, sudden rain showers are common, so having a poncho, rain jacket or umbrella can be a game-saver. Winter games, especially late football season, can get chilly, so gloves, a coat and a beanie go a long way in keeping you comfortable. And no matter the tempurature, don’t forget to hydrate – your body will thank you.

Get the Tarleton Sports app

Did you know the Tarleton Sports app isn’t just for checking scores?

Anyone can download it and start earning fan rewards. You can participate in trivia, earn points and even have a chance to win fan gear.

Attending games and checking in through the app allows you to accumulate points that can be redeemed for Nike apparel, backpacks and other exclusive Tarleton merchandise.

Drew Banks is the Assistant Director of Marketing and Fan Engagement at Tarleton, and he plays a key role in the fan rewards efforts.

“Just simply showing up and checking in ends up benefiting people in the long run,” Banks said. “The fan rewards app can earn you a lot of benefits that, quite frankly, not a lot of people are taking advantage of currently, and it’s very easy to use.”

The app is also used to select winners for special giveaways, such as game-worn jerseys and other prizes. Additionally, fans who attend events in-person have a chance to be chosen for in-game promotions, including free throw contests and full court putts, where they have a shot at even more prizes.

Bring Your School Spirit

Let’s be real – the most important thing you can bring to any game is your school spirit. Wear your purple with pride, prepare your loudest cheers and get ready to raise the spirit of Oscar P. The more energy you bring, the better the game will feel for everyone.

“My favorite game day essential has got to be school spirit,” sophomore Emma Rodriguez said. “Wearing purple, being loud and just showing up proud for the team — that’s what really makes the game day experience special.”

With these simple tips, Tarleton fans are sure to be on track to making the most out of the plethora of sporting events hosted on the campus.