One of the largest and most popular tents is hosted by SHSU Alumni Relations , led by Charlie Vienne , the associate vice president of Alumni Relations . He has attended their tailgates since coming to Sam Houston 16 years ago and has watched the celebration grow over the years . Part of this growth is the expansion of their tent from 20 by 80 feet to 20 by 100 feet to ensure they can host all current and returning SHSU students who come in support of their alma mater .
“ Tailgating is an opportunity to support the athletic program , specifically the football team ,” Vienne said . “ It ’ s an opportunity to provide for alumni engagement and it provides an environment of excitement and enthusiasm before each football game .”
This excitement has been building over the past two years as tailgates were previously canceled due to COVID-19 and people are longing for the chance to get out and socialize again . With the rise in anticipation , Vienne expects their average visitor number to go way beyond their last average of around 500 people . He enjoys hosting not only fellow Bearkats but community members and friends of the university as well . So what makes a great tailgate ? Tailgating doesn ’ t have to be a stressful process , where you might worry about remembering every single item before heading out . With some organization , planning and this tailgating checklist , you ’ ll be set up and ready to get to the stadium in no time .
“ Any tailgating enthusiast will tell you that you definitely need a tent , you need tables and chairs , ice chests , whether it ’ s with alcoholic or nonalcoholic beverages ,” Vienne said . “ And then if you ’ re going to do your own cooking , you need a little barbecue pit or something of that nature so you can cook .”
Vienne also stressed the importance of being prepared to serve others if you are using a caterer . This includes keeping an abundance of things like utensils , napkins and plates for those who may stop by your tent for a quick chat or a bite to eat . To bring in visitors , Vienne encourages fellow tailgaters to focus on decorating their setup .
“ The way you decorate , the way you present your space to others is what I think it really adds flair and excitement to Bearkat Alley ,”
The best tailgaters will also tell you that you need games such as cornhole , ring toss or playing cards . Also , don ’ t forget a television with a portable satellite , so everyone at your tailgate can watch games from across the country .
All of these elements build upon the social experience of a tailgate , which means the most to Vienne and Alumni Association Board President Scott McCarley .
“ Tailgating is as much fun as the football game ,” McCarley said . “ It ’ s the visiting with friends that you don ’ t see often , it ’ s the social event . When you go to the football game , it ’ s just about football , but out there it ’ s all about your friends and what they ’ ve been doing .”
HUNTSVILLE LIVING | SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER , 2021 | 25