An Inside Look at the UWG Tailgating Tradition

Courtney Bixby

The tradition of tailgating has made its way into the University of West Georgia football stadium. Tailgating is an opportunity for students to gather and eat food in the back of parked vehicles before a sports game. The university has designated “The Hill,” for students to engage with the community and enjoy activities before the start of the game. 

The Center for Student Involvement & Inclusion and Student Affairs have worked to bring a fun and welcoming environment to The Hill. Last year they were able to offer things such as food trucks, free shirts, pie in the face competition, dance competitions and competition games for the students. The Hill is free for all students, but will fill up on a first-come, first-serve basis. Tailgating for students opens four hours before kickoff, giving students plenty of time to meet new people and play plenty of games. 

One of the biggest events during a UWG tailgate is the Wolf Walk to welcome our wolves onto the field. This happens around two hours before the game as students line up to cheer on the wolves next to the cheerleaders and fans. Students and fans can take pictures, briefly meet the players and wish the coaches luck on their game all while enjoying the music from the West Georgia Band. Tickets bought for the Wolf Walk include a tent, two chairs, a table and parking. The walk is full of exciting fans and shapes the fun atmosphere of West Georgia football games. 

Tailgating is also available for fans and alumni in several areas. Spots may be reserved in Lot B, The Wolf Walk, or The Wolves Tailgate Lot. Locations such as Lot B even include RV hookups for overnight parking. These spots are available to purchase up to three days before the game and give the community and alumni a chance to cheer on their favorite team. When the wolves are on the road, the university will often host alumni and friends for a watch party. 

The university also offers a Junior Wolves program allowing kids from 0-12 to enjoy activities associated with The Wolves. This program is an annual membership and the kids have access to fun activities such as bouncy houses, face painting and they will have an opportunity to lead the West Georgia Wolves onto the field. Junior wolves enrolled in the program will get free admission to home games, admission into Saturday basketball games, free t-shirts, a monthly e-newsletter, and a birthday message from student athletes. 

October marks the exciting weeks of homecoming for the university. There will be a homecoming tailgate party on Oct. 16, including activities, food and music. The tailgate begins at 11a.m. and the Wolf Walk begins at 12p.m. Homecoming royalty will be honored and the crowning will occur at halftime giving all students and fans a chance to recognize our royalty and their spirit during the game. 

For more information on the location and time, visit our athletics page.