Game Days are a big deal in Ann Arbor. But alcohol use can lower inhibitions and affect decision-making, making it harder to get the things you want out of your Game Day experience. Use the following tips to have the Best Fan Experience!
Stay in the Blue
- Talk it through your friends. What is your plan to Stay in the Blue? Check out U-M student-created strategies for ways to get more of what you want from drinking while avoiding the stuff you don’t want.
- Stay hydrated and eat - especially foods high in protein.
- Remember the key plays. Night games can make for especially long days. Make a plan to pace yourself while drinking so that you actually make it to kick-off and remember the action happening on the field.
- Non-drinkers are always in the Blue… and in good company! Thousands of U-M students choose to not drink for a variety of reasons, such as religious or cultural beliefs, being under 21, illness, family history, being in recovery, and more.
Social gatherings
Whether you are attending an event or hosting it, this social gathering guide is full of things to consider in order to have the best experience. Use it to plan an inclusive tailgate, game watch, or afterparty!
Expect respect
- Be a positive fan regardless of your team. We all need to GIVE respect to get it. Behave with integrity and consideration for others – including other Wolverines and visitors. Give it. Get it. Expect Respect.
- Act like your mom is watching. Avoid the use of foul language, obscene gestures, inappropriate messages, and threats. Leave apparel and signs with profane or abusive language at home.
- Be a better bystander. Help keep our community safe by using the 4 Ds of Bystander Intervention: Direct, Distract, Delegate, and Delay.
- See something, say something. If you see someone else in trouble or not being treated with respect, get help. Law enforcement is here to help everyone have the Best Fan Experience. Call 911 or text 377911.
Enjoy game days
- Know the laws and policies on campus and in Ann Arbor to make the most informed decisions.
- Follow stadium guidelines.
- No bags, containers, or outside food/drink inside the stadium. Visit mgoblue.com for a complete list of stadium guidelines.
- Treat everyone with respect. Respect fellow Wolverines and visitors to our campus, even those who are cheering for the other team.
- Look out for our reminders. In partnership with U-M Athletics, there are reminders posted around athletic venues reminding you what you can do to create the Best Fan Experience.
- Plan a safe way home. Buzzed driving is drunk driving. Don’t drink and drive! Have a designated sober driver or call a ride-share to help you get home safely.
What else is going on?
- Swing by a hydration station on game days.
- Have a U-M dining plan? Choose your dining hall and check out the special tailgate menu at lunch and dinner.
- Look for game watches, tailgates, and other non-sports-related events happening all over campus using the Happening @ Michigan calendar. Most of these events are great ways to connect with others that don’t involve alcohol!
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