Western Colorado University Athletics

 
Supporting Mountaineer Athletics through tailgating prior to football games is a time-honored event built on the tradition. Western Colorado University encourages responsible tailgating in an effort to enhance the game day experience, ensure a safe game day atmosphere to all fans and preserve a beautiful campus.
 
Tailgating Hours:
Fans are encouraged to begin their tailgating activities three hours prior to kick off (10 a.m. for a 1 p.m. kickoff).
 
Tailgating Area:
Fans may tailgate in the Paul Wright Gym and Savage Library parking lots. A premium tailgating area in the University Center parking lot and an east section of the Paul Wright Gym parking lot is reserved for Mountaineer Athletic Association members only (to learn more about joining the MAA, click here).
 
Tailgating areas are first come, first serve. Please do not take up more than two parking spots or impede traffic.
 
Golf cart shuttles will be running from the tailgating areas up to Mountaineer Bowl in order to transport fans before the game.
 
Enforcement of Alcohol Policy:
In accordance with the alcoholic beverage laws of the state of Colorado, individuals must be at least 21 years old to possess or consume alcoholic beverages. The consumption of alcoholic beverages by patrons is always subject to the laws of the State of Colorado and the city of Gunnison. Western State Colorado University as well as the Gunnison Police Department will work in conjunction to enforce these rules.
 
No outside beverages will be allowed inside Mountaineer Bowl. Fans can purchase non-alcoholic drinks at the concession stand and beer in the MountainBeer Zone.
 
Clean-up:
All parties are responsible for making sure their assigned tailgating area is cleaned prior to departing for the game.  All trash/recyclable items must be picked up and thrown away. Western Colorado University promotes active recycling by all fans.  Please assist us by disposing recyclables in their proper bin.
 
Behavior:
Rowdy, threatening or inconsiderate behavior will not be tolerated and may result in ejection, arrest and/or loss of entrance into Western athletic events. Any person damaging University or City property will be responsible for the costs of repairs; including damages to grass from cooking grease and/or sprinkler damage. Western State Colorado University and the Gunnison Police Department reserve the right to enforce event policy at any time.
 
Family Friendly:
Tailgating at Western is a family friendly environment. Please be respectful of those surrounding you.  Groups are personally responsible for making sure their guests act appropriately.
 
Tailgating Tips:
1. Visit Mountaineer Bowl prior to game day to get familiar with the area and space. You know the size, likes and dislikes of your tailgating group so be thinking about all this prior to the actual event.
 
2. Plan your menu and do prep work a day before the game. Keep the menu simple. Pack prepared food in disposal bags and containers.
 
3. Make a list of all items you want to take along, and check off each item as you pack it. Be sure your list contains trash bags, paper towels. Other things to consider are small first aid kits, folding chairs and blankets. Game items like footballs, washers will add to your fun. Bring your camera!
 
4. Pack paper and plastic items (plates, napkins, towels, forks, spoons, etc.) the night before. Pack perishable items on game day.
 
5. Use coolers for your food. Pack foods in reverse order so that the last ones packed will be the first ones served.
 
6. Wear Western gear and colors! If the weather is cold, dress warmly but layer clothing. Changes in weather are very common in this state so be prepared. Use a windbreaker as an outer layer. In wet weather, wear appropriate shoes.
 
7. Carry a cell phone with you at all times. Make sure the battery is charged and give your cell number to others attending. If they can’t find you, they can call you for directions.
 
8. Decorate your tailgating area in Western items and colors. Mountaineer flags, banners, blankets, etc. will make your Mountaineer allegiance easily visible to other tailgaters.
 
9. Get involved in the communal atmosphere. Toss the football to other tailgating parties, challenge them to a game of washers, etc. It’s a great way to meet new people.
 
10. Have your food cooked 1 to 2 hours before game time. This should give you enough time to eat, clean up, and walk to the stadium.
 
11. Take lots of pictures of your tailgating experience. Share them on social media and tag @WCUMountaineers on Twitter and @WesternMountaineers on Instagram.
 
12. Make sure your charcoal is cold before disposing of it. Many experienced tailgaters let their grills cool off during the game and dispose of the ashes after the game is over.