What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of college? Besides the boys, the parties, and of course all of the academics, lies one of the most anticipated things about school – Football. This sport is something that both women and men can get excited about, especially at USF. The University of South Florida is a member of the Big East Conference and has been since 2005.
This year, the USF Bulls will be competing against big time names including Notre Dame, Rutgers, Miami, and West Virginia. With a 8-5 record for the 2010-2011 season, USF students and fans have high hopes for their Bulls this year. Plan on attending the first home football game of the season, which will be held September 10 at 7:00pm at Raymond James Stadium against Ball State. Especially for freshman, this will be an incredible experience and will make you feel like you are finally a true Bull.
When it comes to picking out what to wear, if you think it is too much, think again. When students go to USF football games, they let it be known that they are a proud Bull. From the crazy horned helmets to the green and gold body paint, fans dress to impress. There is even an organization that meets up prior to the games to paint up in USF colors and they are the one and only Beef Studs and Babes.
If you have never been to Raymond James Stadium, prepare yourself. It seats over 70,000 people and holds a huge pirate ship in it that even “shoots a cannon”. The one thing to know if you are a first timer is to plan on arriving early. Parking can be a hassle, but the real reason for coming early is the tailgating. Bull fans pride themselves in their tailgating skills. People do not just come in their cars, they go all out with trailers, buses, even a boat brought by USF’s wakeboarding club. Tailgating can began hours before the game and can last until the very last touchdown. You will be sure to find plenty of screaming fans, beer cans, and a ton of food.
So start practicing all the football chants, go buy some USF apparel, and get ready to get crazy. The first official Bulls game is at Notre Dame at 3:30 p.m. and kick it off by celebrating at the Beef ‘O Brady’s on campus. Also, look out for an email to request your ticket for the first home football game because you won’t want to miss it.