The University of Texas at Austin Athletics
Tailgate Guys experiences record-breaking interest for first year operation at Texas
08.28.2015 | Texas Athletics
Texas fans enthusiastically respond to first-class, turnkey tailgating packages
This summer, Texas Athletics announced a partnership with Tailgate Guys to offer new enhancements to the gameday experience and on-campus tailgating. Texas fans enthusiastically responded with record-breaking interest for first year operations with Tailgate Guys.
"We've been blown away with how well Tailgate Guys has been received by the Texas Longhorns fan base," said Parker Duffey, president of Tailgate Guys. "We have surpassed any of our previous start up operations' first year performances well before the first game has even started."
Last fall, in an effort to better understand and assist the fan experience, Texas Athletics conducted extensive fan surveys and focus group interviews, and the feedback was consistent and overwhelming.
Survey results from the McCombs School MBA Program indicated that Texas fans possess a strong desire for improved on-campus tailgating options. To complement existing tailgate activity, and to accommodate Texas fans, Texas Athletics partnered with Tailgate Guys to provide first-class, turnkey tailgating experiences.
"The early enthusiasm for Tailgate Guys packages illustrates we were able to fill a need that was identified in by our fans in a research project we conducted last season with the McCombs School of Business," said Men's Athletics Director Steve Patterson. "We're looking forward to seeing this exciting element in person on game day. We expect the operation to grow in the coming years as more fans see the convenience and fun provided by this collaboration."
Starting this football season, the LBJ Lawn and surrounding areas will be used by Tailgate Guys for tailgate spaces, which may be reserved for the season or on a per-game basis. All tailgating activity inside this specific site is only available through Tailgate Guys. Traditional tailgating activity outside of the Tailgate Guys site does not change; fans are still welcome to grill and self-service their own tailgates outside of this site on campus and on the outskirts of campus. Texas Athletics understands the value of traditional tailgating, and is partnering with Tailgate Guys to offer new opportunities and enhancements to the gameday atmosphere -- not replace current traditions. Read more information here.
All Tailgate Guys hospitality packages are designed to host 15-100 guests and include tents, tables and chairs. Media and TV options can be added to every package. Tailgate areas will be constructed on and around the LBJ Lawn, just steps from Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Each reservation also includes one parking pass in an adjacent lot. Guests have the option to reserve paper products, utensils and coolers filled with ice.
Full-service catering with local Austin flavor is offered through local restaurants. Fans have the option to order from Contingo, Hoover's, Stubb's Bar-B-Q and Tacodeli or to bring in their own food. Please note Tailgate Guys spaces do not permit fire cooking and/or grilling.
"Overall, everyone has really embraced this process," added Duffey. "We've seen everyone from national brands to former student-athletes purchase packages so far. It's pretty awesome to see it come together so quickly."
Packages are still available for all six home games. Please visit TailgateGuys.com for additional information or call the Tailgate Guys: Texas Office at 512-300-0382 to discuss options.