'Tis the season to tailgate

The homecoming tailgate at Winston-Salem State brings much excitement as Ram fans gather to celebrate their beloved University, Oct. 1.

Arriving early in the morning, with grills, deep fryers, buffet style serving dishes and coolers in tow, they proudly set up their tents and chairs. They gather no matter what type of weather, and this year, the weather was chilly with a slight breeze.

Both sides of the street at Bowman Gray Stadium are crawling with Ram fans stuffing themselves with good food, talking smack and having a good time.

Vendors push carts full of WSSU homecoming merchandise like T-shirts and towels as spectators make their way into the stadium for the big game.

"This is my first time out here and it's a wonderful experience," said Rian Harshaw, a junior finance major from Charlotte.

"It really shows how the alumni and students can come together to celebrate."

Being a Ram doesn't necessarily mean that one attended the University, but that WSSU holds a special place in their heart.  

Paula Vanderburg, from Statesville, said she always wanted to be a Ram, but never got the chance. Her daughter, freshman Rodnika Vanderburg is a dancer for Scarlet Lace.

"I've supported the Rams for years," said Vanderburg, who has been attending homecoming tailgates since 1991.

People bustle back and forth from tent to tent shaking hands, raising drinks and enjoying the company of the friends that they haven't seen in a while.

"There's a lot of food and socializing," said David Dawson, 2002 alum from Chicago and member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

"I've been coming out sporadically for the last few years; it helps me keep in touch with the older members of my fraternity as well as the newer ones who have just joined."

Denise Norris remininces about when her neighbor and WSSU alum, Jackie Strong would bring her to the homecoming tailgate in the 1970s.

"Nowadays, there are more people, more tailgating, more everything; there are more parties, all over the city; there are things to do for both the young and the old," said Norris.

Norris comes from a family of Rams. She worked at the University from 1995-1996, in child care. Her mother worked at WSSU for nearly 20 years.

Norris's son, Kinard Norris played in the University's band for two years. Her aunt is WSSU Chief of Police, Patricia Norris.

Tailgating at WSSU is more than just a way to pregame before the football game.