As a student at the University of Wisconsin, I never knew how big of a badger fan I could be until I began to attend school here. One of the best parts about being a Wisconsin Badger is spending a majority of the fall semester cheering on our football team. Whether the games are intense, where we are neck-and-neck with our opponents or major blowouts, where we are winning by a huge margin, game days truly are the best days.
1. School Colors
Red, white and black game day gear is totally in style right now. Gameday bibs, Sconnie shirts, cheerleader skirts, face tattoos and fanny packs allow for many mix-and-match gameday outfits.
2. Tailgating
It is not a true college game day without some tailgating involved, right? Grab some friends and get rowdy before watching the Badgers work their magic on the field.
3. Camp Randall
There is no better feeling than coming to “camp” for the first gameday of the school year, especially after having withdrawals all of second semester and summer break. A stadium that seats roughly 80,000 people holds some of the finest gameday traditions in collegiate football history. The vast sea of red wrapping all the way around the stadium makes for the greatest of memories, especially since Camp Randall is a place like no other.
4. Soft Pretzels
This is a game day must have and 10/10 would highly recommend the sugar pretzel.
5. Cheers
“On, Wisconsin!,” “First and 10 Wisconsin!,” “First and goaaaaal Wisconsin!,” and some of the more vulgar cheers help produce the lively and energetic atmosphere at Camp Randall.
6. Bucky
He is easily the greatest mascot in all of collegiate-level athletics. Bucky’s red and white striped top and big, red shoes complete his look from head to toe as he does his push up’s for every point Wisconsin earns.
7. Sweet Caroline
“SO GOOD, SO GOOD, SO GOOD!” Even when the speakers shut off, the student section still carries on with the rest of the song and it surprisingly still sounds good.
8. Varsity
As a university tradition, “Varsity” sends chills down everyone's spines and gives people goosebumps. Whether you are an undergraduate student, a graduate student, an alum, a future student, or just a fan, this is a beautiful song that brings everyone together in perfect harmony.
9. Jump Around
Year after year, “Jump Around” at the University of Wisconsin has set the bar high for college football traditions since it has been ranked #1 on a multitude of occasions. By hearing the initial downbeat of the tune, you know it’s time to get on your feet, jump crazily on the bleachers while belting out the lyrics. Hopefully, you do not fall off the bleachers as frequently as I do!
10. Fifth Quarter
As the game comes to a close, there is still more fun in store! The Wisconsin Marching Band is literally the definition of “fun.” As they perform some awesome tunes while dancing like no other, the fans are encouraged to participate by singing and dancing, too.
11. Post-Game Naps
After a long day of standing on your feet, jumping around, and cheering louder than ever, you should treat yourself to a well-deserved nap. If naps aren’t your thing, then grab a slice of pizza from Ian’s or check out a postgame party. Regardless, you will just be satisfied after watching the Badgers take home the win!
