SAN ANTONIO – College football fans are no strangers to the excitement of hard hits and touchdowns, but tailgating before the game takes on a different meaning for BYU Cougars alums.
BYU tailgates are about giving back to those in need rather than the typical spread of snacks, food and adult beverages.
Allison Bills, a BYU alumna, said their tailgate tradition is focused on charity, with fans bringing donations such as socks and diapers instead of typical tailgating fare.
“We are extremely unique in the sense that instead of bringing brats and beer, we bring socks and underwear and diapers in hopes that we can benefit someone locally,” Bills said.
This “pregame party with a purpose” has become a hallmark of BYU since 2019.
The team partners with a local charity to hold a donation drive at every away game.
The goal, Bills said, is simple: “Our goal is just to blow them out of the water with generosity … we would just love for everyone to contribute and whatever we get will be wonderful.”
As BYU prepares for the upcoming Alamo Bowl, featuring a highly anticipated matchup against Colorado Buffaloes on Dec. 28, Bills and other alums have partnered with Haven for Hope.
Celeste Eggert, the Chief Development Officer for Haven for Hope, was surprised to learn of BYU’s unique tailgating tradition.
“I had no idea that they do this at all their away games,” Eggert said. “They connect with a local charity and collect items for that organization, and I just think it’s remarkable.”
Haven for Hope serves over 1,700 people daily of all ages.
The nonprofit organization has created an Amazon wish list with essential items, including clothing, winter gear and hygiene products, to make the donation process easier.
According to Bills, when BYU fans show up with donations, it can be quite the conversation starter.
“It’s hilarious, actually; it’s so funny to see,” Bills said. “It’s a little shocking. They’re like, why do you have that instead of, where’s your beer?”
For people who wish to contribute, donations will be accepted at BYU’s official tailgate event in San Antonio from 2-5 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 28, at Civic Park at Hemisfair. Additionally, online contributions are also welcome.
Eggert admits to feeling a sense of gratitude toward BYU for its efforts and added, “Well now I feel like I’m obligated to support BYU after they’re doing this incredible tailgating event for us.”
Anyone who wishes to help BYU’s cause and donate to Haven for Hope can do so online.
The No. 17-ranked BYU Cougars will face the 23rd-ranked Colorado Buffaloes at 6:30 p.m. on Dec. 28 in the Alamodome and will be broadcast live on KSAT 12.