Akron and Kent State are only 10 miles apart creating a strong rivalry between these two schools from northeast Ohio. The rivalry began in 1923 when the Zips shutout Kent State 32-0, but the Wagon Wheel trophy wasn’t added to the rivalry until 1946. Things intensified in 1992 when Akron joined the Mid-American Conference, and the two teams have faced off every year since then. The proximity and long history between these two rivals mean you’ll be in for quite the treat when these two bitter rivals get together on the gridiron.
Anniversary Award - Kent State competes with Bowling Green for the Anniversary Award. The rivalry began in 1985 with the Falcons securing victory over the Golden Flashes 26-14. Since then the Falcons have held the upper hand in the series winning 23 of the 30 meetings. However, the Golden Flashes have won three of the last six meetings. You’ll find lots of fans from both teams make the trip across the state when these two bitter rivals get together creating a fun and competitive game day atmosphere.
Golden Eagles Tailgate Guide
Atmosphere
Dix Stadium is located around 2 miles from campus meaning you won’t see some of the debaucheries here that you would see at other schools throughout the MAC. That doesn’t mean that you won’t see expansive tailgate setups, though, as Golden Flashes fans arrive early to get the most out of their tailgating experience. Tailgating starts three hours before kickoff, so don’t be late and miss out on the fun.
You’ll find plenty of places to tailgate at Kent State. The parking lots surrounding Dix Stadium provide a great place to set up the grill and tailgate with friends and family, while Fan Experience offers the perfect place for those looking to enjoy the pregame festivities without going through the hassle of setting up a tailgate of their own. There is even a student tailgate zone where students can get together before the game and throw down a few drinks.
You’ll also have the chance to get up close to Kent State players and coaches during the Flash Walk. The walk takes place two hours before kickoff and concludes with the head coach and two players giving a speech to rile up the crowd. Nothing will get you into the Kent State game day mood better than the Flash Walk.
Finally, when tailgating at Kent State make sure to stop by and check out the themed tailgate promotion. One of the most popular amongst the fans is 80’s night. The fans come out with big hair, bright colors, rolled up sports coats, crazy makeup, and hair metal giving off the feeling that you’re in a living breathing Def Leppard video. So come prepared to take part in whatever tailgate theme is going to get the most out of your Kent State tailgating experience.
You’ll have the chance to get up close to Kent State players and coaches during the Flash Walk. The walk takes place two hours before kickoff and concludes with the head coach and two players giving a speech to rile up the crowd. Nothing will get you into the Kent State game day mood better than the Flash Walk.
Fan Experience offers an Indoor Picnic area with Inflatables, entertainment provided by the KSU band, Food, drink vendors, and even the chance to greet the team 2 hours before kick-off. It’s the perfect place to stop by before the game for those looking to get involved in all that a Kent State game day has to offer.
Fan ExperienceFan Experience offers an Indoor Picnic area with Inflatables, entertainment provided by the KSU band, Food, drink vendors, and even the chance to greet the team 2 hours before kick-off. It’s the perfect place to stop by before the game for those looking to get involved in all that a Kent State game day has to offer.
Student Tailgate ZoneThe Student Tailgate Zone is held in the southwest corner of the stadium by the softball field and starts about 3 hours before kick-off. Here you’ll find students partying hard and letting loose before the game, so if you’re looking to experience one of the rowdiest tailgates at Kent State than stop by the Student Tailgate Zone.
Golden Eagles Stadium Guide
In Game
When attending a Kent State Golden Flashes game, you’ll find a small school atmosphere packed with a lot of heart. Dix Stadium holds a little over 25,000 fans giving it an intimate feeling that you won’t find at larger schools like Ohio State. There is a great sense of camaraderie between Kent State fans who over the years despite having less to cheer about than a lot of other school’s fans continue to come out and support their team with all their heart.
There is a ton of loyalty on display at Kent State with the fans coming out in strong numbers and cheering on their team all throughout the game regardless of the weather. Even in the pouring rain, you’ll still find thousands of fans chanting the K-S-U chant in hopes that the Golden Flashes will come up with the vital third down stop the team most desperately needs.
One of the most unique things about attending a Golden Flashes game is the fact Kent State offers a section devoted entirely to former student-athletes. The Varsity “K” Room is located in the northeast corner of the stadium and is an exclusive club open only to former student-athletes. If you’re a former Kent State student-athlete, then stop by the Varsity “K” Room for premium in-game experience, however even if you do not try and sneak a peak as you’ll never know who you’ll find hanging out there.
The strong fan support at Kent State means you’ll have a great time regardless of the score or weather, so don’t hesitate to come out to Kent State to take in some exciting MAC football action.
The George Jenkins and Jim Phelan Hall of Fame Plaza showcases all-time great Kent State players. Here you’ll find a tribute to Golden Flashes who have gone on to play in the NFL as well as players who have had their numbers retired by the school. Tributes can be found for greats including Jack Lambert and James Harrison.
The first 60 minutes the stadium gates are open you’ll have the opportunity to grab some grub for cheap. During this period select concessions can be purchased for as little as $1, so make your way to the stadium early to take advantage of this incredible deal.
Dix Stadium offers two hospitality decks, which are perfect for large groups or business functions. The packages include a great view of the game as well as catered food and beverages. If you’re bringing a large group to the game then you’ll love the party decks at Dix Stadium.
The Marching Golden Flashes are a major part of what makes the atmosphere at Kent State games so special. The band puts on outstanding pregame and halftime performances in addition to keeping the crowd at fever pitch with their in-game music selections.
Flash, the Golden Eagle, is the official Kent State mascot and can be seen all throughout the game. He entertains the crowd with his antics between downs and even poses for pictures with fans. Flash’s strong presence makes him one of the more entertaining mascots in the MAC, so keep your eyes peeled for when at the game.
Fight on for KSU, Fight for the Blue and Gold! We’re out to beat the foe; Fight on brave and bold! Fight on for victory, Don’t stop until we’re through. We’re all together, Let’s go forward, K-S-U!
Alma Mater
Verse 1: From the beauty land Ohio comes a universal praise, ‘Tis the song of Alma Mater that her sons and daughters raise. ‘Tis a Hail to Kent forever, on the Cuyahoga shore, Now we join the loving thousands as they sing it o’er and o’er. Hail to Thee, our Alma Mater. O, how beautiful Thou art, High enthroned upon the hilltop, Reigning over every heart. Verse 2: From the hilltop Alma Mater gazing on her portals wide, Sees the coming generations as they throng to seek her side, Seek her side to win her blessing, throng her gates to bear her name, Leave her gates to sing her praises go afar to spread her fame. Hail to Thee, our Alma Mater. O, how young and strong thou art, Planning for the glorious future, Firm enthroned in every heart.
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