1. Purple and Gold Streamers
Following every big play made by the Dukes, you’ll see purple and gold streamers flying from the stands. Join in the tradition or at the very least get a picture or video of the streamers to show your friends when you return home.
2. Marching Royal Dukes
You won’t want to miss the performance of the Marching Royal Dukes when taking in a JMU football game. The Marching Dukes are one of the best bands around having won the Sudler Trophy in 1994 and put on an incredible pregame, halftime, and postgame show.
3. Duke Dog
Duke Dog made his first appearance in 1982 and since then has become a staple of JMU sporting events. He’s one of the best mascots in college sports, and he was even a finalist for the Capital One Mascot Bow in 2004, so you won’t want to miss any of his antics, which include barking during the singing of the “JMU Fight Song.”
4. Dog Walk
Before the game, make sure to greet the team as they make their way into the Athletic Performance Center. The Dog Walk takes place 2 hours and 45 minutes before kickoff and is an excellent way for you to get into the JMU spirit before kickoff.
5. Milestone Murals
Stop by the lower concourse and see the murals dedicated to the biggest moments in Dukes football. The murals are a must-see for any JMU fan or college football fans, so check them out during your trip.
6. James Madison-William & Mary Rivalry
The rivalry between James Madison and William & Mary dates back to 1978 and has been going strong ever since. There is no love lost between these two Virginia-based conference rivals, and every matchup is a can’t miss as conference supremacy and bragging rights are always on the line. The Dukes lead the all-time series 22-17, so come out and support them as they try to extend their lead this season.
7. Cheerleaders
Join in the cheers lead by the cheerleading squad to show your support for the Dukes. You can see the cheerleaders trying their best to keep spirits high all throughout the game, so join in and how your support for the Dukes.
8. Fan Zone
The Fan Zone is located on Godwin Field and is a great place to hang out before the game starts. Here you’ll find all kinds of activities including inflatables, football toss, face painting and much more.
9. James Madison-Delaware Rivalry
You won’t want to miss it when James Madison and Delaware square off. These two Colonial Athletic Association rivals first met in 1983, but the rivalry didn’t take off until the two schools became conference rivals in 1993. The Blue Hens hold a 14-10 lead in the all-time series, but the Dukes will look to draw nearer when the two meet his season.
10. Team Stores
Check out the team stores on the upper and lower concourses if you’re looking to get some Dukes gear at the game. The team stores sell a wide selection of merchandise meaning you won’t have to worry about leaving empty-handed.
