Washington and Washington State play annually for the Apple Cup. The rivalry began in 1900 when the Huskies and Cougars tied 5 all in Seattle. The two teams started playing every year in 1946 with odd years being played in Seattle and even years in Pullman. The Huskies hold a 69-32-6 all-times series, but the Cougars will look to narrow the gap when the two teams meet this season in Seattle.
Washington State University and the University of Idaho are less than eight miles apart, which has lead to the creation of a strong rivalry between these two schools. The rivalry spans over multiple sports with football being the most prominent. The Cougars lead the all-time series 71-61-3 and will look to continue their eight-game winning streak when the Vandals and Cougars meet in 2016.
Cougars Tailgate Guide
Atmosphere
The overall atmosphere found at a Washington State tailgate is a very comforting, as fans are not overly rambunctious and take preparing food very seriously. The seriousness of the cuisine can be seen by all the different food trucks that are stationed in Hollingbery Fieldhouse. Here you’ll be able to find almost any kind of food you can image, so make sure to stop by if you’re looking for a pregame snack or meal.
Leading up to the game fans can be seen all throughout campus wearing Crimson and Gray in support of the Cougars. Another thing you’ll notice in Pullman on game day is that there are lots of RVs near campus. RVs are a big part of tailgating at WSUas Cougars fans are known for their trademark RV tailgating. Hit up the RV tailgating if you want to get in on the Cougars tailgating spirit.
If you’re looking to have fun before attending a game, then a Washington State tailgate is a great place to be. The fans here are friendly and willing to share food and drinks as long as you bring some to share as well. Also, there is no shortage of Cougar pride in Pullman as the town lives and dies with the Cougars.
The Food Fair at Hollingbery Fieldhouse opens three hours before kickoff. Here you’ll find a wide variety of vendors selling food and beverage beyond what you would typically find in the stadium.
The Bell first rang in 1892 when it was installed to signal the change of classes. In 1930, the bell was moved to the top of College Hall, and is present now in the Lewis Alumni Centre, and traditionally rings after each home football game win.
One of the biggest traditions at Washington State is waving the flag. You’ll find the flag is a huge part of Cougars fan culture. You’ll see Cougars flags being flown all throughout the game, as the fans cheer on their team. The flag has even grown to such a big part of the school’s culture that it can be seen every Saturday on ESPN College GameDay despite the fact the show has never been at Washington State.
Washington State is located in the fairly remote Pullman, Washington meaning that homecoming is one of the few times alumni return. Therefore Cougars fans put on one of the best homecoming displays with alumni coming from all over the country. Arrive early in the week to take part in all the fun homecoming activities Washington State has to offer including the bonfire and Homecoming Day Celebration.
Hollingbery Fieldhouse TailgateThe Food Fair at Hollingbery Fieldhouse opens three hours before kickoff. Here you’ll find a wide variety of vendors selling food and beverage beyond what you would typically find in the stadium.
RV Lot TailgatingThere are eight distinct regions for RV parking, and RV tailgating is something that is unique to WSU. You have to purchase a permit to park, but they can be found closer to game day on sites like Craigslist. The RV lot tailgaters have it down to a fine science and are a great crowd to be around.
Cougars Stadium Guide
In Game
Martin Stadium provides a nice close-knit community environment for fans due to its small size and the close ties that bond Cougars fans. There isn’t a bad seat in the house here as the stadium’s smaller size means no matter where you sit you’ll be close to the action.
WSU fans are as close to SEC fans as you’ll find in the Pac-12, the fans here love to party and show their support for the Cougars. The crowds at Cougars games are very loud as the metal bleachers help to amplify the noise. The student section, in particular, shows strong vocal support for the team, which helps motivate the rest of the crowd.
One of the biggest traditions at Washington State is waving the flag. You’ll find the flag is a huge part of Cougars fan culture. You’ll see Cougars flags being flown all throughout the game, as the fans cheer on their team. The flag has even grown to such a big part of the school’s culture that it can be seen every Saturday ESPN College GameDay despite the fact the show has never been at Washington State.
You’ll love the loud atmosphere at Martin Stadium as it’s a must see for all big time college football fans and don’t forget to bring your flags so you’ll fit right in.
A new addition to Martin Stadium that’s improving the stadium’s overall look. It provides a new home for the football program featuring new lockers, offices, meeting rooms, and training areas. It will also house a WSU Football heritage area.
The south side of the stadium now has a huge new structure that includes a lot of goodies for the fans. It’s three stories high and spans almost the entire sideline. It includes luxury suites, club seating, loge boxes, a press box, and TV/radio booths.
Butch has been the WSU costumed mascot since 1978 when it replaced the final live cougar mascot, Butch VI. Throughout games, Butch entertains the fans by leading chants and throwing t-shirts into the stands. Look for Butch to entertain fans young and old when attending a Washington State football game.
The Cougars Marching Band features almost 200 members and performs at every Cougars home football game. Stay in your seat at halftime to watch their wonderful performance.
Washington, my Washington,
the Crimson and the Gray!
Tis the songs of memory that we sing today.
When the sad hours come to you
and Sorrows ’round you play, just
Sing the songs of Washington,
the Crimson and the Gray, just
Sing the songs of Washington,
the Crimson and the Gray!
Rico's offers a full menu of American style food including hot sandwiches, seafood (the best fish'n'chips in Pullman), salads, and the best burgers in town.
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