Donor Spotlight
Four Generations of Fandom From an antiques auction to ESPN fame, this group of tailgaters has kept the flames of U football fandom burning bright
In the early ’70s, a tradition started to take root as three Utah couples began gathering before each home U football game, delighting in the chance to revel in the company of friends, all while cheering on a less-than- stellar Utes squad.
“We started tailgating because we listened to [long-time radio disc jockey] Tom Barberi,” says Dave McDowell. “He would encourage everyone to go to the games and tailgate before—so we did.”
What began as a leisurely way to spend an afternoon became much more, says McDowell’s wife, Nickie. This was a lifestyle, a commitment to the joys of camaraderie and the thrill of the game. And in those early days, the cost of admission was
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CRIMSON CLUB MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2023
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