Across the country, students and alumni alike gather for one sole purpose: for the love of college football. No matter the weather, no matter the day, and no matter if it's Thursday night with a big paper due tomorrow, people from across the nation come together to celebrate one of America's great past times.
Tradition is soaked deep into many of these teams, in the ACC and the SEC alike. There is always a huge rivalry or monumental game to cap off the opening season and the Battle of Bristol, against Virginia Tech and the University of Tennessee, is no exception.
Being a Tech student myself, I look forward to any game no matter what. Win or lose I love to go out and have fun with friends and support my Hokies. This means that like many, we get to dress in our best school colors.
Some of these are universal, but others are only known to Virginia Tech students. Here are the top five things you'll see Virginia Tech students wear on game day.
1. A Virginia Tech football jersey
Guys and gals alike wear this one. It's a simple but effective piece to wear, especially if you have a favorite player in mind. Unfortunately, they aren't always cheap but luckily the sales section or online shopping can help.
2. Maroon/Orange rompers and dresses, paired with boots.
If you want to dress up a bit more (since you figure you may not get to the game), then many girls will put on a pretty romper or light dress during the warmer months. Boots are always a good choice as well since it can get muddy. Some of the best spots to shop game day in Blacksburg are Mad Dog and Sundee Best Boutique (pictured below, special shoutout to my girl Campbell).
3. "Stick-It-In" Shirt
This special chant has begun to fade into the past, as in 2007 it was banned in Lane Stadium for it's scandalous innuendo. However, if you look hard enough you can still find remnants of it in merchandise. I've worn my "Stick-It-In" shirt to every first game of the season since my freshman year and I'll continue to do so even after I graduate.
4. A "VT" face tattoo.
Add only water and you have a cute detail to your game day look. Styles vary including the school logo, VT-style eye black, and my personal favorite, Hokie Bird feet. However, be mindful of the awkward tan spot you may get from being out in the sun!
5. A Virginia Tech polo shirt
Many VT fellas opt for the "golfer dad" look and wear polo shirts to match with khaki shorts. It's a comfortable look but at the same time says "I'm in a frat but don't expect me to show up wearing a blazer (unless I'm a pledge)."
So look your best Hokie Nation as we tackle on this wonderful new season of football!