Wildcats Overview

Fast facts

League: NCAA Football

Head Coach: Jedd Fisch

Team Mascot: Wilbur and Wilma Wildcat

Year Opened: 1928

Capacity: 50782

City / State: Tucson / Arizona

Rivalries & Top Games to Attend

Territorial Cup

Rival Team: Arizona State Sun Devils

The Territorial Cup is awarded annually to the winner of the Arizona-Arizona State game. These two instate rivals have been fighting for the Territorial Cup since 1899 making it the oldest rivalry trophy in the NCAA. The two teams began playing annually in 1925 and over the decades the Wildcats have amassed a 48-39-1 lead over the Sun Devils.

Kit Carson Rifle

Rival Team: New Mexico Lobos

The rivalry between the Arizona Wildcats and New Mexico Lobos dates all the way back to 1908. From 1938 to 1990 the two schools played for the Kit Carson Rifle, however, the trophy was retired due to concerns about the history of violence against Native Americans. Arizona holds a 43-20-3 lead in the rivalry, which has been dormant since 2008.

Wildcats Tailgate Guide

Atmosphere

Tailgating at Arizona Stadium is a time-honored tradition that that brings Wildcat fans all over the country together again on game days. If you’re looking to get the most out of your Arizona pregame experience, then The Mall is the place to be. On The Mall, you’ll find the most die-hard Wildcat fans and the biggest tailgates since this is where all the season ticket holders tailgate. The Mall is also home to all the official and sponsored tailgates, so don’t feel shy about heading over there even if you don’t know anyone.

Another reason The Mall is a great place to be before kickoff is that it is home to the Wildcat Walk. During the Wildcat Walk the team, coaches, and staff is dropped off at University and Cherry to walk through the tailgating action at The Mall to greet fans. The Wildcat Walk occurs two hours before the game as the team makes their way to Arizona Stadium. Don’t miss out on the Wildcat Walk, as it is an excellent opportunity to see the players face to face.

It is also important to note that if you want to make friends with the people around, then it is in your best interest to wear red and blue as Wildcat fans are very friendly to fellow fans. Put on your red and blue and head down to The Mall for a great tailgating experience that any college football fan would love.

Traditions

Wildcat Walk

Don’t miss out on the Wildcat Walk, which takes place two hours before the game. During the Wildcat Walk the team, coaches, and staff are dropped off at University and Cherry before proceeding through the tailgating action at The Mall en route to the stadium

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Post-Game Concert

Following the game, the band marches to the administration building where they put on a post-game concert for all the fans. At the end of the concert the student union clock tower, bell is rung and everyone in the band yells, “Bear Down!” Follow the band to the administration building after the game so that you can take part in this wonderful tradition.

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Bear Down Fridays

University Boulevard hosts Bear Down Fridays, which is a pep rally that takes up the entire area the night before a home game. The band, cheerleaders, and even some of the coaches from Wildcat athletics are present for the celebration. Why wait until Saturday to get in on the game day festivities when you could join in on this great tradition.

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Sentinel Peak

Sentinel Peak got the nickname “A” Mountain because of the large, painted rock in the shape of an A. The “A” was whitewashed onto the mountain in 1916 and has remained there over the years. Arizona State also has a similar “A,” which has led to both schools trying to change their opponent’s “A” to their colors.

Where to tailgate

Wildcats Stadium Guide

In Game

Arizona Stadium has undergone several renovations recently with the most notable taking place in the North End Zone. The new renovation stands out amongst the rest of the stadium making it the premier spot to sit if you’re looking for luxury accommodations. The North End Zone also offers you a great view of the new scoreboard so that you won’t miss any of the action.

Here in Arizona, you’ll not only get an excellent view of the action on the field, but you’ll also be able to catch a great view of the Tucson landscape and skyline. Seats in the upper deck and the luxury suites, in particular, offer an incredible view as you can see clearly over the stadium.

Recent renovations may have made Arizona Stadium more luxurious than in the past, but that doesn’t mean the passion has been taken out of the place. The Zona Zoo remains one of the most raucous student sections in college football, and you’ll spend the majority of the game standing and cheering your lungs out. The loud fans and nice new amenities at Arizona Stadium make attending a Wildcats football game an experience you’ll remember forever.

Things to check out

North End Zone Renovation

The newly added north end zone includes new seats, great food, state-of-the-art amenities, and a view of the massive scoreboard in the south end zone. If you’re looking to experience an Arizona football game in style, then the North End Zone is the spot for you.

Wildcat Haka

before every game the Wildcats perform a Haka dance, which pumps up both the players and fans. Keep your eyes peeled for this dance as typically the team performs their dance in front of the student section.

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Bear Down

It’s included in the field design, the fight song, and many posters and t-shirts, but the traditional slogan has a deeper historical meaning. Student body president and quarterback John “Button” Salmon was in a severe auto accident in 1926. On his deathbed, he told coach Pop McKale, “Tell them… tell the team to bear down.” The slogan continues today as a great way to meet and connect with fellow Wildcat fans.

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One-Handed Pump

Like many other mascots throughout college football Arizona’s Wilbur Wildcat performs pushups after every Wildcat’s score. However, unlike other mascots Wilbur does his pushes one handed. Cheer Wilbur on as he performs his impressive one-handed pushups.

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Fourth Quarter Salute

At the beginning of the fourth quarter Wildcat fans hold up four fingers to signify that it is the start of the fourth quarter. Hold up your fingers to help give the Wildcats the extra boost needed to finish out the game with a victory.

Fight Songs

  1. Bear Down, Arizona

    Arizona, bear down!

    Let’s cheer for Arizona,

    Let’s raise our voices high!

    Let’s cheer for Arizona,

    That bear down battle cry!

    Let’s cheer our team to victory!

    Let’s cheer our team to fame!

    Let’s cheer for Arizona,

    For spirit wins the game!

     

    Chorus:

    Bear down, Arizona!

    Bear down, red and blue!

    Bear down, Arizona!

    Hit ’em hard let ’em know who’s who!

    Bear down, Arizona!

    Bear down, red and blue!

    Go, go, Wildcats go!

    Arizona, bear down

  2. All Hail, Arizona

    Arizona’s alma mater played after games

    All hail, Arizona!  

    Thy colors Red and Blue

    Stand as a symbol

    of our love for you.  

    All hail, Arizona!  

    To thee we’ll be true

    We’ll watch o’er and keep you,  

    All hail! All hail!

  3. Fight Wildcats, Fight!

    A-R-I-Z-O-N-A!

    A-R-I-Z-O-N-A!

    A-R-I-Z-O-N-A!

    Go A-R-I-Z-O-N-A!

    W-I-L-D Cats! (Say what?)

    W-I-L-D Wildcats! (That’s right!)

    W-I-L-D Cats!

    Go wild about those Cats!

Wildcats Bars & Restaurants

  1. Hi Fi Kitchen & Cocktails

    Hi Fi Kitchen and Cocktails

    Sprawling indoor/outdoor tavern with American pub grub, cocktails & big TVs amid rock-&-roll decor.

    345 E Congress St #101, Tucson, AZ 85701, USA

    Bar website

    american - $

  2. Maloney’s Tavern

    Fat Daddys

    Movie stills deck the walls of this buzzing pub featuring bar food, drinks specials, pool & DJs.

    213 N 4th Ave, Tucson, AZ 85705, USA

    Bar website

    american - $

  3. Surly Wench Pub

    Whiskey

    Pub popular for cocktails, monthly burlesque shows, burgers & industrial/goth music selections.

    424 N 4th Ave, Tucson, AZ 85705, USA

    Bar website

    american - $

  4. HighWire Lounge

    HighWire Lounge

    HighWire offers exciting creations along with a beer and wine selection to fit everyone's tastes will always be in season

    14 S Arizona Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701, USA

    Bar website

    american - $$

  5. Owls Club

    Criterion beer Mazzys Brewballs Cogans Deli Sports Pub Kamikazes Libbys Bar Grill Knot Pub Cara Irish Mess Hall

    Offerings include an extensive whiskey selection, old world wine list, well-curated spirits collection, and a modest beer program.

    236 S Scott Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701, USA

    Bar website

    american - $$

  6. Che’s Lounge

    Chips

    Upbeat hangout delivering live music, libations & local art exhibits in an easygoing atmosphere.

    350 N 4th Ave, Tucson, AZ 85705, USA

    Bar website

    american - $

  7. Buffet Bar & Crockpot

    Mojito

    Longstanding dive bar with playfully graffitied walls offering pub grub, pool & free shuffleboard.

    538 E 9th St, Tucson, AZ 85705, USA

    Bar website

    american - $

  8. Playground Bar and Lounge

    Playground Bar and Lounge

    Contemporary destination for DJ tunes, global eats & cocktails paired with a high-energy vibe.

    278 E Congress St, Tucson, AZ 85701, USA

    Bar website

    american - $

  9. Batch Cafe & Bar

    Batch Cafe and Bar

    Brick-walled spot for whiskey, snacks & gourmet grilled cheese, served with decadent donuts.

    118 E Congress St, Tucson, AZ 85701, USA

    Bar website

    american - cafe - $$

  10. Sky Bar Tucson

    Sky Bar Tucson

    Bar embracing the night sky as its main theme, complete with telescopes & astronomy lectures.

    536 N 4th Ave, Tucson, AZ 85705, USA

    Bar website

    american - $$

  11. Reilly Craft Pizza and Drink

    Reilly Craft Pizza and Drink

    Modern Italian eatery in a vintage space with vaulted ceilings, a beer garden & a basement bar.

    101 E Pennington St, Tucson, AZ 85701, USA

    Bar website

    italian - pizza - $$

  12. La Cocina

    La Cocina

    Festive indoor/outdoor cafe for global cuisine, late-night happy hours & live music performances.

    201 N Court Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701, USA

    Bar website

    american - $$

  13. Penca

    Penca

    Upscale Mexican fare & agave-based cocktails distinguish this eatery in a chic & rough-hewn space.

    50 E Broadway Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85701, USA

    Bar website

    mexican - $$

  14. Maico Restaurant

    Maico Restaurant

    Freshest authentic Mexican food in town.

    835 E 22nd St, Tucson, AZ 85713, USA

    Bar website

    mexican - $

  15. Athens on 4th Avenue

    Athens on 4th

    Bustling Greek cafe presenting a wide variety of dishes & wines in a white-tablecloth setting.

    500 N 4th Ave, Tucson, AZ 85705, USA

    Bar website

    european - $$

  16. Kettle Restaurant

    Kettle Restaurant

    Spacious, unfussy eatery featuring hearty American breakfast, lunch & dinner fare & a buffet.

    748 W Starr Pass Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85713, USA

    Bar website

    american - $$

  17. The Little One

    Taco

    Mexican breakfast & lunch favorites are served in generous portions at this snug, busy weekday cafe.

    151 N Stone Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701, USA

    Bar website

    mexican - $

  18. Cafe a La C’Art

    Cafe a La CArt

    Homey cafe on the grounds of the Tucson Museum of Art specializing in refined American entrees.

    150 N Main Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701, USA

    Bar website

    american - cafe - $$

  19. Nook

    Nook

    New American fare is served for breakfast & lunch at this hip cafe with a modern interior.

    1 E Congress St, Tucson, AZ 85701, USA

    Bar website

    american - $$

  20. Cup Cafe

    Cup Cafe

    Inside a circa-1919 hotel, this trendy American cafe serves old-school desserts & creative entrees.

    311 E Congress St, Tucson, AZ 85701, USA

    Bar website

    cafe - $$

  21. HUB Restaurant & Ice Creamery

    HUB Restaurant and Ice Creamery

    Homemade ice cream & New American fare headline at this hip spot with a young crowd & DJ-spun tunes.

    266 E Congress St, Tucson, AZ 85701, USA

    Bar website

    american - cafe - $$

  22. Five Points Market & Restaurant

    Five Points Market and Restaurant

    Sun-lit, modern outpost featuring New American dishes, espresso drinks & a small grocery market.

    756 S Stone Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701, USA

    Bar website

    american - $

  23. Risky Business

    beer bottles

    Risky Business is Tucson’s favorite family restaurant and sports bar.

    6866 E Sunrise Dr, Tucson, AZ 85750, USA

    520-577-0021

    Bar website

    sportsbar - $$

  24. The Shanty

    The Shanty

    One of the nicest outdoor patio in town and one of the 5 oldest liquor licenses in T-town!

    401 E 9th St, Tucson, AZ 85705, USA

    520-623-2664

    Bar website

    american - $

  25. Texas Roadhouse

    Abstract

    Lively chain steakhouse serving American fare with a Southwestern spin amid Texas-themed decor.

    170 S Wilmot Rd, Tucson, AZ 85711, USA

    520-514-7427

    Bar website

    american - bbq - steakhouse - $$

  26. Barrio Brewing

    Barrio Brewing beer

    Rustic-chic brewpub with well-known happy-hour specials, shuffleboard & up to 12 house beers on tap.

    800 E 16th St, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA

    520-791-2739

    Bar website

    american - $$

  27. Illegal Pete’s

    House of Wings Sportsbar Beer 3rd Base Sports Bar Beer Kilroys Beer

    Our food. Your taste buds. A match made in culinary heaven.

    876 E University Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA

    520-352-1340

    Bar website

    american - $

  28. Sky Bar

    Sky Bar

    Solar-powered cafe by day, astronomy by night.

    536 N 4th Ave, Tucson, AZ 85705, USA

    520-622-4300

    Bar website

    american - cafe - $

  29. Gentle Ben’s

    Gentle Bens

    Good Food. Good Beer. Good People. Good Times.

    865 E University Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA

    520-624-4177

    Bar website

    american - $$

  30. Trident Grill

    Tequila

    Neighborhood watering hole with menu of seafood, burgers & pub grub near the University of Arizona.

    2033 E Speedway Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA

    520-795-5755

    Bar website

    american - bbq - $$

  31. Dirtbag’s

    Dirtbags

    Besides fun times and memorable experiences, Dirtbag’s has offered the perfect balance of fine-crafted cocktails and savory, tasty food options.

    1800 E Speedway Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA

    520-326-2600

    Bar website

    american - $$

  32. Frog & Firkin

    Alcohol Bottles

    Import- & craft beer-focused British pub offering bar food, pool, darts & occasional live music.

    874 E University Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA

    520-623-7507

    Bar website

    european - $$

  33. Magpie’s Gourmet Pizza

    Magpies

    Local pizzeria chain serving classic pies & customizable combinations within easygoing digs.

    605 N 4th Ave, Tucson, AZ 85705, USA

    520-297-2712

    Bar website

    pizza - $$

  34. Sullivan’s Steakhouse

    Sullivans Steakhouse

    Whether you’re a first-timer or one of our regulars, you’ll love the familiar feeling that comes with dining at Sullivan’s.

    1785 E River Rd, Tucson, AZ 85718, USA

    520-299-4275

    Bar website

    american - steakhouse - $$$

  35. North Italia

    North Italia pizza

    We’ve turned a modern lens on traditional Italian cooking.

    2995 E Skyline Dr, Tucson, AZ 85718, USA

    520-299-1600

    Bar website

    italian - $$

  36. El Minuto Cafe

    El Minuto

    Circa-1930s, family-run Mexican eatery serves Sonoran-style cuisine & well-known cheese crisps.

    354 S Main Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701, USA

    520-882-4145

    Bar website

    mexican - $$

  37. Zinburger

    burger

    From indulgent burgers of the week to a decadent shake of the month, out chefs are always dishing up fun and fresh flavors.

    1865 E River Rd #101, Tucson, AZ 85718, USA

    520-299-7799

    Bar website

    american - $$

  38. RA Sushi Bar Restaurant

    RA Sushi Bar Restaurant

    Snazzy Japanese fusion chain is known for its inventive sushi, cocktails & happy-hour deals at the bar.

    2905 E Skyline Dr #289, Tucson, AZ 85718, USA

    520-615-3970

    Bar website

    asian - $$

  39. Vivace

    Vivace

    Northern Italian fare served in elegant surrounds, plus a lengthy wine list.

    6440 N Campbell Ave, Tucson, AZ 85718, USA

    520-795-7221

    Bar website

    italian - $

  40. Guadalajara Original Grill

    Guadalajara Grill

    The Guadalajara Grill has been offering a wide variety of the best Mexican food including favorite dishes and innovative fresh dishes that keep our customers coming back.

    1220 E Prince Rd, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA

    520-323-1022

    Bar website

    mexican - $$

  41. Teresa’s Mosaic Cafe

    Teresas Mosaic Cafe

    Brightly decorated breakfast & lunch spot with Mexican meals including handmade tortillas.

    2455 N Silverbell Rd, Tucson, AZ 85745, USA

    520-624-4512

    Bar website

    cafe - mexican - $$

  42. La Parrilla Suiza

    La Parilla

    All of the restaurant’s tacos, meat and cheese dishes are cooked on charcoal or grilled.

    5602 E Speedway Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85712, USA

    520-747-4838

    Bar website

    mexican - $

  43. Sausage Deli

    sausage

    Sit in our cozy dining room or belly up outside with a HOT Omar sub and ice cold beer and you'll be hooked.

    754 E Grant Rd, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA

    520-623-8182

    Bar website

    american - $

  44. Lindy’s On 4th

    Lindys

    Two Finger Peek-A-Boo to the Dirty Sanchez Lindy's creates a food experience you will want to experience again and again.

    500 N 4th Ave, Tucson, AZ 85705, USA

    520-207-6970

    Bar website

    american - $$

  45. Brooklyn Pizza Company

    Brooklyn Pizza

    Pizza joint utilizing solar power with famed garlic knots, housemade gelato & oven-fired pies.

    534 N 4th Ave, Tucson, AZ 85705, USA

    520-622-6868

    Bar website

    pizza - $

  46. No Anchovies

    Steak

    Pizza joint crafting specialty pies in a compact dining room with bench seating & a full bar.

    870 E University Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA

    520-623-3333

    Bar website

    pizza - $$

  47. El Guero Canelo

    El Guero

    As a boy, Daniel Contreras ate, slept and breathed baseball (he was nearly a champion at 12). Now he puts that same drive into Sonoran food.

    5201 S 12th Ave, Tucson, AZ 85706, USA

    520-807-9620

    Bar website

    mexican - $

  48. Rocco’s Little Chicago

    Roccos

    The best pizza in your neighborhood!

    2707 E Broadway Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85716, USA

    520-321-1860

    Bar website

    pizza - $$

  49. 1702

    1702 serves an ever-changing selection of 46 imported beers and domestic micro-brews on draught and much more by the bottle.

    1702 E Speedway Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA

    520-325-1702

    Bar website

    american - $$

  50. El Charro Cafe

    El Charro

    Whatever your needs, El Charro Café and family are prepared to show you that; "We are not the best because we are the oldest, We are the oldest because WE ARE THE BEST!"

    311 N Court Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701, USA

    520-622-1922

    Bar website

    mexican - $$

  51. Bison Witches

    Bison Witches

    a nontraditional bar without the traditional "bar food".

    326 N 4th Ave, Tucson, AZ 85705, USA

    520-325-8526

    Bar website

    american - $