Originally published October 22, 2010
Last Saturday’s clear weather gave Bradley students a chance to fully enjoy the Tailgate Party for men’s soccer at Shea Stadium.
“The weather was beautiful,” community volunteer Alex McDougall said. “The guests were great. The turnout was fantastic and there were more tables and more representation.”
Junior actuarial science major Jonathan Cain said the weather affected the number of people there.
“I think it was a good improvement because of the weather,” he said. “Last year there were only five to six alumni members here.”
Executive Director of Alumni Relations Lori Fan said this year a change was made in the setup.
“Everything was under one large activities tent,” she said. “Last year each organization had its own tent.”
Many people said they liked the way it was set up.
“It makes more sense and it’s more cohesive,” alumnus Matt Noe said.
Fan said there were more organizations at the tailgate party this year than there was last year.
“There was a lot more to do, more student organizations and colleges represented,” she said. “It was a more festive community. A lot of students were really into it.”
Association of Residence Halls President Randy DuMez said he thought the tailgating went well.
“It’s a really great idea having organizations sponsoring this,” he said. “It has people bring their friends and it gets more people involved.”
Sophomore learning behavioral science major Dawnesha Freeman said being with her sorority made the event more enjoyable.
“I had so much fun because I was able to be with my Sigma Delta Tau sisters,” she said. “We had a potty toss where you can win candy. It was really successful and everyone had a chance to get free stuff.”
Other than the potty toss, there were also several other games, which were sponsored by Fun on the Run.
Students had the chance to make bracelets, play bingo and go paintballing.
Freshman civil engineering major Alyssa O’Donnell said the tailgating helped make her more excited for the soccer game.
“If people had just shown up to the game, I don’t think people would have been as pumped up,” she said. “At tailgating everyone was wearing their red and white and the atmosphere was really good.”
Several alumni members said the tailgating was a great benefit for current students.
“This only started about two years ago,” alumnus Rich Praeor said. “It would have been cool if we had something like this offered.”
Some alumni said they wished more graduates from their class would have attended.
“We would have been happier if more people from the ’60 class showed up,” alumnus Kurt Blumenthal said. “But we love what Bradley’s doing.”
