Football season is a big part of college life, and game days bring that excitement to campus. Whether you’re a lifelong football fan or barely know the difference between a first down and a touchdown, game day is something everyone can enjoy.
Getting ready for your first college football game? Here's what you need to know before heading to the stadium.
1. College Football Game Day Schedule
Game day starts well before kickoff at SEMO. Here are a few activities you won’t want to miss:
- Banterra Block Party: This is the traditional tailgate. Vendors, fraternities, student clubs, and other sports teams have tents along Smallwood-Williams Way outside the stadium, usually starting about 3 1/2 hours before kickoff. It’s a great place to connect with other fans, grab food from local eateries, take pictures, and pick up some free swag.
- Redhawk Walk: About an hour and a half before the game begins, line both sides of the street to cheer on the football team as the SEMO Marching band, cheerleaders, and Sundancers lead you into the stadium.
- Pregame: Gates open after Redhawk Walk. Try to be in your seat 15 minutes before kickoff to catch the pregame festivities. The band plays while the cheer and dance teams perform on the field. Then the football team gathers in the east end zone to lock ‘n rock before storming the field.
- During the game: Plenty is happening even during timeouts. The Sundancers perform, giveaways are tossed into the stands, and fans can take part in videoboard games. Sponsors even throw egg rolls and sandwiches into the crowd, so you’ll want to be on your feet. Timeouts are also used to recognize athletes and promote upcoming games.
- Halftime: Halftime begins with a student game on the field, a chance to win prizes and show your Redhawk spirit. Then SEMO’s marching band and color guard take the field for their halftime performance. After the band plays, it’s also a good time to make a concession run.
- Postgame: Win or lose, every Redhawk game ends with singing of the alma mater. If you don’t know the words yet, don’t worry; you will by the end of the season. Lock arms with the people next to you and rock as the crowd sings.
Congrats! You’ve made it through your first SEMO football game day.
2. How to Get Your Student Access Pass Ready
One of the most important things to take care of before game day is your stadium admission.
The Student Access Pass is a free digital ticket that gives you admission to SEMO home games during the school year. Your SEMO ID will not be accepted as a game ticket.
To download your free Student Access Pass, visit SEMORedhawks.com/MyAccount on your mobile device. Follow the prompt to log in using your SEMO email address, then select “My Access Passes.” Choose the option to save the pass to your phone’s wallet.
On game day, open your wallet app to display and scan your ticket. Do not use a screenshot of your pass because the barcode will not scan.
Taking care of your pass before you arrive at Houck Field can save you time at the gate.
3. Giveaways at College Football Game Days
Let’s be honest: Everyone loves free stuff. Football games often include giveaways for students, from replica jerseys and energy drinks to Rowdy decor.
Students can also enter giveaways for items such as iPads, AirPods, and mini fridges from game sponsors. These giveaways are exclusive to students, so keep an eye out for opportunities to enter while you’re at the game.
4. What to Wear for College Football Game Days?
Game day is a chance to show your Redhawk pride. Each home game has a theme, whether it’s a red out, black out, or something unique like Halloween costumes. Follow @thenestsemo for updates on game-day themes.
You may be outside for hours, so choose comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. The student section can also get loud and energetic, so wear something you can cheer in.
Bags must be small and clear, and you probably won’t need to bring much. Consider packing sunscreen, sunglasses, a portable charger, and money for concessions.
The Bookstore has plenty of game-day gear and even has a booth at the stadium for last-minute shoppers. So, you can’t say you “have nothing to wear!”
5. Know the Game Day Traditions
Every college has its own game-day traditions. At SEMO, there are a few things to know before you go.
- Throughout the game, you’ll hear the announcer yell “SE!” more times than you can count. Your response is “MO!”
- You may also hear sing-alongs in the student section, The Nest. The songs vary by game based on student interest, but knowing the words to “Sweet Caroline” might come in handy.
- A few other songs have become unofficial SEMO football anthems. “Grove Street Party” plays at the end of the third quarter, and after a win, you’ll hear “All I Do Is Win.”
- Then there’s “The Claw.” You’ll see cheerleaders and fellow Redhawks making the gesture in photos. It looks like a bent-finger 3 claw. If a camera points your way on game day, now you know what to do.
6. College Football Game Days Are About Having Fun
Your first college football game doesn’t require expert sports knowledge or perfect preparation. Game day is a chance to experience a tradition that brings SEMO and the Cape Girardeau community together.
It's time for you to enjoy the atmosphere, grab some food, learn the cheers, take pictures, and meet new people.
You may find that SEMO game day becomes one of your favorite college traditions.