Making Etiquette Easy: Game Day

With Mayor Moncrief’’s declaration of today as ‘Purple Day’ to support our hometown TCU horned frogs’ success this season, it’s time to take a look at what you can do to make every game—be it a win or a loss—a good game. Tailgates and stadiums bring on a plethora of social behaviors that might be expected, but aren’t always accepted. Here are a few things to consider next time you set out to celebrate your favorite team:

• If you’re hosting a tailgate, be aware of your surroundings. At many schools, tailgaters camp out in front of students’ homes. Do not block driveways without permission, play obnoxiously loud music, or start the charade at an ungodly hour (i.e. 6am is too early). Asking to use the restroom—or doing so publicly in the lawn—is also inappropriate, no matter how badly you have to go. And finally, pick up all of the trash.
• Don’t mooch. Turn up early and always bring something to the table (namely food or beer). Recognize it is not a ‘fair’ trade to provide a twelve pack of hot dog buns and expect unlimited imported beers.
• If you’re rooting for the opposing team, it’s perfectly fine to wear corresponding jerseys/attire. It is not fine to yell at opposing fans or be irreverent in all of your behaviors. You are, essentially, a guest; keep in mind you are also outnumbered.
• Avoid debauchery in public for any reason. People sometimes think that they won’t be judged or that drinking in excess at games is an exception to the rule, but it’s not. There are plenty of people who bring their families and don’t deserve to have to shield their children’s eyes from ‘that guy.’
• Don’t forget the reason you came. You should find your seats about 20 minutes before kickoff to ensure you can support the team you came for. As a rule of thumb, you can be as loud as you want when your team is on defense, but always be quiet during the snap so your players can hear their own calls.

Playoff’s are just around the corner, and it’s not too late to show your love for the school as a seasoned fan with class and character!

Making Etiquette Easy,

Susan K. Medina