Not only was the MIT football team’s trip to California successful in terms of a victory on the field, the journey was also a huge success in bringing out fan support for the Engineers. A pair of events, a tour of the Rose Bowl and a pregame tailgate, were held in conjunction with the trip that gave MIT alumni, parents and friends a chance to socialize and show their MIT spirit.
Friday night before the football game an event was held at the Rose Bowl stadium in Pasadena that gave an opportunity for the team and parents and alumni to mingle in one of the most famous sports venues in the world. Over 150 guests were treated to an exclusive tour of the Rose Bowl itself, with everyone getting a first-hand look at the playing field, locker rooms and the Court of Champions that houses the Rose Bowl Hall of Fame. Following the tour, a dinner was held in the newly renovated premium seating area which is part of a $164.5 million renovation of the stadium.
“MIT has a family and alumni base throughout the country,” said Julie Soriero, MIT Director of Athletics and Department Head of DAPER. “Having the opportunity to travel to Southern California to compete and engage with our alumni and families was truly a memorable experience for a number of people. The range in ages of our alumni who showed up to cheer for MIT and show their pride made the event that much more rewarding and exciting.”
Prior to the game on Saturday a tailgate was held that was attended by more than 250 people at the Seaver House on the campus of Pomona College. The structure, built in 1900, serves as the office of the Pomona College Alumni Office and was a perfect setting for the gathering that enabled all to get ready for the game. After the tailgate it was just a short walk to the stadium where the boisterous MIT contingent helped the Engineers to an exciting victory.
“It meant the world to our team and staff to see such a large contingent of MIT fans in the stands at Pomona,” remarked MIT head football coach Chad Martinovich. “They made a lot of noise and having that support definitely played a role in winning the game.”
Publication Date:
