Tailgating dear to Aggies’ hearts

Tailgating has been a college tradition since the first collegiate football game between Rutgers and Princeton in 1869.  Rumor has it that the fans rode horse-drawn carriages and grilled sausage at the tail end of the horse, giving birth to the term tailgating. Modern day tailgaters have since moved to more elaborate carriages.

Texas A&M has taken the tradition of tailgating in stride.

"Aggies are the people that make tailgating the best," said John Sleeper, class of 1968.  "We have been tailgating for the last 19 years and have at least 40 people attend every weekend."

Sleeper's well-established tailgate has planted its roots on the south side of Olsen Field and has a sign identifying it as the "Sleeper Tailgate." Sleeper is the descendent of William Sleeper, class of 1878, the first president of the Former Student Association — first known as the Former Cadet Association — and a member of the first graduating class of A&M.

Many different aspects make up a tailgate. Food, beverages, friends and games are just a few elements. The Aggie spirit also contributes to the tailgate experience.

"A good group of friends, good area to barbecue, good eats and the environment of other fans [make a good tailgate]," said Keith McBride, class of 2004.

Some tailgates on campus are purely for the fans.  Stan Volelker provides food for Aggie fans passing by.

"All of the people who come around are the only reason we do this," Volelker said. "We feed anybody that comes by and we cook all three meals." His tailgate was named the best home game tailgate by the HEB Beef Council this year.  Volelker's tailgate will be present at every home game located north of Reed Arena.    

Next door to Volelker's tailgate, ‘Visor Guy' sets up camp to cheer on the Aggies.  Visor Guy is a fan favorite and is known for his visor and always attending home games and yelling his mind. Kathy Holley, Visor Guy's mom, makes  a snack she calls "Nibbles and Bitts," Italian sausage balls unique to their tailgate. What makes a  good tailgate is simple, class of 1989 Bryan Stamford said.

"Hanging out with friends, drinking beer and watching other football games after an Aggie win."