A little football etiquette to live by
The CU Buffs kick off their season on Sunday, August 31 with their annual game against the CSU Rams.
Many students consider this the most important game of the season for the Buffs, because losing to a rival can be a serious blow to any school’s morale.
But sometimes fans can take the competition too far.
If you suddenly feel the urge to have a smack down with a CSU fan, or if you simply aren’t familiar with the rules at Invesco Field, it might help to know some football etiquette.
First of all, road rage is dangerous. If you see a car decked out with CSU bumper stickers and flags on your way to the game, it is probably not a good idea to tailgate them or cut them off. If you get into an accident, you won’t even make it to the game.
Taunting CSU fans is also a recipe for disaster, especially when people have been tailgating since 7 in the morning. An argument can become physical very quickly, and you don’t want to leave the stadium in a police car.
“Excessive drinking is one of the main causes behind assaults at the football games,” said CU Police Department spokesman Brad Wiesley.
Security will be patting down everyone who enters the stadium and searching all bags. If you are trying to enter the stadium with alcohol or other prohibited items, you won’t be allowed in.
According to the regulations for the game, if you are caught with alcohol inside the stadium, you will be leaving immediately. Even if you are 21 or older, you are not allowed to possess alcohol during the game.
Sometimes even your best efforts to be a respectful fan can be squashed by the actions of others.
If you are bothered by the behavior of other fans, you can always call the hotline number established for security to deal with unruly fans: 303-735-BUFF.
“If someone is being disruptive and you don’t want to confront them, security is always ready to handle the situation,” said Kevin Lee, associate executive director of University Communications.
CU also has a campaign for etiquette during athletic events called “Competing with Class.” The campaign promotes treating other fans and players with respect, so that they will return the favor.
“We ask our fans to be civil to the refs, the visiting team and their fans, as well as our own team and fans,” Lee said.
Many CU students have friends that go to CSU, often making the rivalry more heated. Game day can turn friend into enemies, so it is always important to remember that the rivalry isn’t worth losing a friendship.
“I think the rivalry is what makes the game so fun for everyone,” said Stephanie Slaughter, a senior news-editorial major. “But it is only a game in the end.”
If you do break the rules at the game, you can be kicked out of the stadium if security feels it is necessary. All violations of stadium regulations will be reported to CU for disciplinary action.
“Enjoy the game, enjoy the rivalry and root hard for your team, but watch out for some of the things that can get you into trouble,” Wiesley said.
If all else fails and you still feel like starting a riot, it might help to remind yourself of CU’s long tradition of winning the Rocky Mountain Showdown.
Since the two schools first met on the field in 1893, they have played 79 games, with CU winning the Centennial Cup 58 times. How is that for a winning record?
The 411
What: CU Buffs vs. CSU Rams
Where: Invesco Field at Mile High, Denver
When: Sunday, August 31 at 5:30 p.m.
How much: Student tickets are $15, but can only be purchased with a football season ticket. Regularly priced tickets are $55.
How to get there: CU offers free Buff Bus service for students to and from the game. You can also take local RTD buses and light rail, which are both covered by the RTD sticker on your Buff One Card. There is a light rail station at Invesco Field.
