The U at Notre Dame
By Kevin Stoker
U-News & Views — An online publication by the University of Utah Alumni Association
Upon arrival in the windy city, the first stop en route to nearby south Bend, Ind., home of Notre Dame University. Utah fans traveling on the Anthony Travel group package enjoyed an evening reception at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Chicago. Vice President of Institutional Advancement Fred Esplin and Alumni Association Executive Director John Ashton greeted and pepped up the fans (as if they needed any more pepping up). Ashton made a special reference to the notable milestones in the history of Utah football, pointing out, for example, that after a 28-year hiatus from bowl games — from 1964–1992 — Utah has risen to become a perennial football power, capturing two BCS Bowl victories in recent years. He also noted that the large contingent of Utah fans making the trip to South Bend to attend the Utah-Notre Dame game was evidence of Utah’s reaching yet another milestone in fan support.
The history and tradition of Notre Dame encouraged Utah fans to visit the university’s picturesque campus throughout the weekend. “Touchdown Jesus”, the grotto, the golden dome, and the tunnel leading down to the stadium field seemed to be fan favorites. The Notre Dame Alumni Association also provided guided tours of campus for visiting guests. The hosts at Notre Dame lived up to their reputation of being very hospitable. It was nearly impossible to go five minutes without someone’s saying, “Welcome to Notre Dame!”
On gameday, November 13, 1,500 fans showed up for the Alumni Association’s pre-game tailgate party, which was one of the biggest alumni tailgates that Notre Dame has ever hosted. A new tent had to be purchased to be able to fit everyone underneath, along with a buffet table loaded with traditional tailgate goodies. While enjoying a hearty catered meal, fans were treated to game programs, raffle prizes, and appearances by the Utah Marching Band and cheerleaders.
Aside from the rain, and the lost to Notre Dame (28-3), it was a fabulous and very successful event.
