Student LOT a gameday alternative

As West Virginia University’s 2012 football season nears kickoff, "big" things are coming to the Student LOT.

WVU will host a student tailgate in the Student LOT, across from the Ronald McDonald House, from 9 a.m.-noon.

"I think this is the one place where students can come, chill out, relax and have some fun without worrying about alcohol," said Assistant Director of Residential Education Alicia Moore.

Both Residential Education and the Graduate Student Office will be hosting Saturday’s tailgate against Marshall University.

The Student LOT will feature entertainment, including a DJ, cornhole, food and giveaways. Several local businesses, including Naticakes, Sweet Frog, Old Navy, Qdoba and West Run Apartments will also attend to promote and give away freebies and coupons to students.

"We have gift cards to give away from Bed, Bath & Beyond, an iPod Nano and two lighted scoreboard clocks," Moore said.

The Student LOT will also give away 500 T-shirts to the first 500 students to attend.

The tailgate is alcohol-free, and any WVU student with a valid WVU ID may attend.

Moore said she believes the Student LOT will provide students with the game day experience they are searching for.

"I think a lot of students want an event that is alcohol-free. When you’re in a situation like that, it’s nice to know there is a place that you can go and have fun but not worry about the drinking. This tailgate is the place you can do that at," she said.

During the Saturday morning tailgate free breakfast food will be served.

This season marks the Student LOT’s third year.

Student Organizational Services and the Office of Student Affairs will provide food and music at the event. They will also monitor the gates, check-in and provide event security.

"There are seven home games. We get different WVU departments and student affairs to host the tailgates," said Barbara Bailey, assistant vice president for Student Success.

Bailey said she is excited to provide a fun environment for students to enjoy before the game.

"There has been a dunk tank and a climbing wall in the past. The tailgate is really just a great place where students can celebrate and have fun," she said. "We want freshmen to know that there are responsible ways to go out and tailgate. You don’t have to drink. This opportunity is open to every student. Every home game, every student is welcome."

Moore said the tailgate has grown tremendously since its inception. Last season’s first tailgate drew more than 1,500 students.

Sophomore Olivia Plazak, who attended several Student LOT tailgates her freshman year, said she is excited about the University’s fun, alcohol-free event.

"It is a great opportunity to meet new people and see different faces from other parts of campus," she said. "The University does a really good job of creating sober activities that are entertaining and fun."

For more information visit http://www.studentaffairs.wvu.edu.