Saturday, November 22, 2008

Last week Saturday we (Cathy, brother Pete & Sharon) were sitting at my first Camp Randall Badger Football game freezing our arse's off but having a great time. But let me back up to the start of the day. The Great Dane Brewing Company was our kick-off spot with some delicious Bloody Mary's and IPA chasers. What a great micro-brewery and the location was perfect......100 feet from our car and 120 feet from the Bucky Badger Shuttle Bus.

Our seats were in row 22 section Q, which happens to be right next to the 'rowdy' student section of thousands that did not sit while the game was being played. Jumping and yelling and screaming was done by all. (along with the student section)

With a dismal looking half-time score of 21-7, a few fans retreated to the warmth of the local pub. Not us! We braved the sub-zero climate (Celsius that is) and of course stayed for the infamous 5th quarter. The Wisconsin band has become nationally famous for its post-game celebration called the Fifth Quarter. Win or lose, fans sing, dance and cheer the band as it plays traditional favorites like "On Wisconsin", the Bud song, and "Varsity".

Those that braved the cold were not disappointed because the Badgers came roaring back scoring two safeties, a field goal and 3 more touchdowns in the second half for an exciting 35 to 32 win over the Minnesota Gophers.

Our chartered limousine, the Bucky Bus, returned us to The Great Dane where more beverages and food was enjoyed by all. It was truly a memorable experience that might best be summed up with a song: On Wisconsin, On Wisconsin, Plunge right through that line, Run the ball clear down the field, boys, Touchdown sure this time. On Wisconsin, On Wisconsin, Fight on for her fame, Fight fellows, Fight! Fight! Fight! We'll win this game.

If your travels ever take you to Madison in the fall, a Badger Game Day experience is a must-do. You will not be disappointed in the pre-game, post-game, and game.