Fun and excitement does not only happen inside of the football stadium. On Saturday, Nov. 4, thousands of people gathered outside of Ladds-Peebles Stadium tailgating before, during and after the Port City Classic game between Alabama State University Hornets and Grambling State University Tigers.
Tailgating is a huge southern tradition when it comes to sports. It is a time for friends and family to come together, have fun, barbecue and cheer on their favorite team. Sometimes, it is about the connections people make while enjoying their favorite sport.
“We are eating real good. We got barbecue, soul food and plenty more,” said Ashley Beasley, a university alumna. “It is good being with friends and family. I enjoy tailgating just as much as watching the game.”
For university alumna Porsche Wilson, an education major graduate, tailgating has been a tradition since she was a little girl, and she has enjoyed every aspect of it.
“I am from Mobile, Alabama, so since I was a young baby me and my parents always went to the Gulf Coast Classic and the parade,” she said. “It was always something to look forward to every year. The atmosphere was just awesome. Anytime Alabama State is here in Mobile, I am super excited. My family and neighbors will come here and support ASU any time.”
Some people come to the games only to tailgate and enjoy themselves.
Towanda Johnson, a Mobile native, is not an alumna for either university but is hoping the Hornets win since they are the home team.
“I don’t go to the games. I just came to tailgate and party,” she said.
“I just love being outside and seeing friends I haven’t seen in a long time and eating good food.”
The Port City Classic was formerly known as the Gulf Coast Classic. Wilson was thrilled when she heard they were bringing the classic back to Mobile.
Her husband, Marvin Johnson, is ecstatic that the classic was able to come back to Mobile as he was able to interact with friends he had not seen since high school.
“We are glad that we finally got it back. It brings out the high-end people who know how to interact with one another and know how to have a good time. People who just wanna have a good time and enjoy their families,” he said.
The camaraderie is what makes tailgating so special. There is nothing better than being around your loved ones and friends to enjoy each other’s company with food, drinks and music.
“I am here supporting both teams,” said Rachel Harden, who’s heart is split on who to root for. Harden is from Grambling, Louisiana but now resides in Mobile.
