5 things all freshmen should know before they go to the next football game

Seniors in the front, freshmen in the back. This is one of the many unwritten rules of the panther pit. To many freshmen, the pit is something to look forward to, but it is also something that most freshmen fear. There are many rules to the pit that a lot of freshmen do not know exist, so here’s a guide to the pit that all freshman should read so that they can be prepared for the rest of the football season.

Go all out

It might seem weird to cover your face and legs in purple handprints, but it will make you feel a lot more spirited and involved. If it is a specific theme night, do not be afraid to break out your craziest costumes (as long as it goes along with the theme). Participation is key to feeling like you belong in the pit.

Cheer along

Everyone knows the famous “oh Pfalls” cheer and the rollercoaster, so why not scream them out as loud as you can? Just don’t forget that you are only supposed to say “oh pfalls” three times. Participating in the cheers gets you and everyone around you more excited.

Bring your friends

Because the pit is intimidating to many freshmen, a lot might not go to games at all. However, football games are as fun as you make it, so persuade your friends to come out and support the team. If you have friends there with you, it is more likely that you will have fun.

Move back at halftime

Most freshmen will already be stuck in the back, but once halftime starts they have to move back even further to make room for the seniors to sit. Although this rule is kind of unfair, it’s better to be squished in the way back than for all the upperclassmen to be annoyed with you. If you don’t want to be pushed and shoved to the back, you can always go grab a snack or walk around for a bit with your friends. And remember, you’ll be an upperclassmen soon enough.

Get picked up a little early

Unless the game is super intense and close, leaving five minutes early won’t be the end of the world, and your parents will thank you for not making them sit in traffic for 30 minutes trying to get out. If you must stay for the whole game, offer to walk to the stoplight or one of the neighborhoods to be picked up. That way your parents won’t have to enter the hectic parking lot at all and you can get out of there as soon as possible.

See you Friday at 7 p.m. for the Stone Bridge game, panthers!