Each year the Shula Bowl is contested between Florida Atlantic and Florida International. The matchup is named after famed Dolphins head coach Don Shula because both program’s first coaches have ties to the legendary coach. These two bitter Florida rivals are located two hours away from each other, so there are always plenty of fans of both teams at the Shula Bowl creating an intense albeit fun tailgating and in-game atmosphere. If you can only make it to one FIU game, then make sure to attend the Shula Bowl.
Panthers Tailgate Guide
Atmosphere
FIU has been home to some rowdy and wild tailgate parties in the past, however recently the administration has cracked down on these wild parties a bit. That doesn’t mean that fans still won’t come out in force to tailgate and have fun just that things may be a bit more subdued than in the past. You’ll still see students partying and having a good time as there are still plenty drinks to be had and games to be played.
It’s not just the party atmosphere that draws students to Panthers game, but the passion they have for their team as well. On game days students bring out the blue and gold large FIU flags and Panther Paw boomsticks to show off their support for the Panthers football team. The students are like a walking spirit squad and have a very positive outlook on the game even if the team has been playing poorly for some time.
If you’re not into partying hard or setting up your tailgate, then check out The Panther Pit. The Panther Pit is set up in conjunction with the school and offers food vendors, picnic tables, face painting, merchandise, a bounce house, and much more. It’s located right outside the corner gate to the stadium, so stop by and join in on the fun.
The passionate fans make attending an FIU tailgate worthwhile, so make sure to get to the game early to take part in this great game day tradition.
This tailgating area set up in conjunction with the school offers food vendors, picnic tables, face painting, merchandise, a bounce house, and much more is located right outside the corner gate to the stadium, so stop by and join in on the fun.
The Panther sculpture provides a great photo op and will bring those who rub its paw 40 years of good luck, so stop by to give yourself and the football team good luck on gameday.
Where to tailgate
Roar LoungeThe Roar Lounge is the official FIU alumni tailgate located in Lot 7. Here you’ll find something for everything, as the Roar Lounge offers music, food, drinks, giveaways, and you’ll even be able to see the FIU Marching Band up close.
Student TailgateThe student tailgate takes place in Lot 6 and is an excellent place to enjoy the pregame festivities with fellow students. Here you’ll be able to either reserve a spot or try and find one on a first come first served basis.
Panthers Stadium Guide
In Game
Florida International may not be the biggest program, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a great time when attending a Panthers game. The smaller size of the stadium means you’ll experience a more intimate atmosphere when attending an FIU game and will provide you with a great view of the action no matter where you’re sitting.
As for the fans, FIU has a growing fan base that is hoping to have more to cheer for in the coming years as the team has struggled a bit lately. Don’t worry though as there is still plenty of fan support behind the team with the diehards filling the stands for every game win or lose.
A unique thing about attending an FIU game is the fact the food inside the stadium offers a Latin flare. FIU is located in a diverse area of Miami and as a result, you’ll find some unique concessions that you wouldn’t find elsewhere. In the upper corner of the stadium, you’ll find a signature FIU dish, the arepa. If you’ve never had an arepa before think of it as a tamable biscuit, the outside is made of cornmeal and the inside is usually stuffed with pork and melted cheese. This is an absolute must have when you’re at the game and a fan favorite of the students.
The intimate atmosphere and unique concessions will ensure that you have an excellent time at FIU Stadium when watching the Panthers.
The Panther Clubs offer fans the opportunity to experience an FIU game in the most luxurious fashion available. Not only do these seats provide the best view of the game, but they also allow fans to access the exclusive stadium club and upgraded concession options.
The Marching Band plays a significant role in creating the atmosphere at FIU games and provides plenty of great traditions. The halftime shows are excellent and showcase how far the football program has come in only a short period
Roary is the official mascot of FIU who provides both support for the Panthers as well as entertainment throughout the game. His wild antics pump up the crowd creating a great home field advantage.
This group of diehard Panthers fans supports the team at all athletic events. These fans are filled to the brim with school pride and are very vocal in their support of the Panthers during games, so keep an eye out for them when attending an FIU game.
We are the panthers of FIU the golden panthers of FIU We will continue to fight with all of our might for victory for gold and blue we stand together and proudly say our golden panthers go all the way We’ll always strive for victory blue-blooded through and through ’cause we’re F-I-U- Go F Go I Go U Go F-I-U Panthers fight! Panthers fight! Panthers fight! (Repeat)
Alma Mater
Hail to thee dear FIU With voices true we pledge to thee All our love and our devotion Humble faith and loyalty We will strive for understanding and for peace and unity We will search for truth and wisdom We will always honor thee FIU alma mater Hail hail to thee.
Ruth’s Chris Steak House specializes in serving aged USDA Prime steaks, broiled in a trademark 1800-degree oven and served on a plate heated to 500 degrees.
Watch video
