How can you make tailgating easy and fun?

The fun begins before kickoff for alum David Anderson ('99), who has been an avid fan of UNT football since the second grade. He also is a devoted supporter of Mean Green athletics and a tailgating aficionado.

During football season, Anderson tailgates with passion and customized gear before settling into his club-level suite at Apogee Stadium, which he purchased as part of his long-term commitment to supporting the stadium and athletics program. On game days, you'll find him out early at Apogee Stadium with his custom grill, two tents, flat-screen TVs and a backup generator.

"When it comes to tailgating, I've set a high level of expectation for myself, but any student or alum can do it on a smaller scale," he says.

Here are Anderson's tips for making tailgating a rewarding experience for you, your family and friends:

Plan ahead

• Prepare enough food and drinks for your tailgating crowd. For 60 guests or more, Anderson cooks 60 pounds of ribs and 20 pounds of sausage.
• Bring games for fun and to keep your guests occupied. One of Anderson's favorites is the game cornhole, similar to horseshoes but with boards and beanbags.
• Have a backup plan for unexpected changes in the weather. Windscreens or tents are good for protection on windy or rainy gamedays.
• Show your pride by sporting your favorite Mean Green gear.

Get out early

• For a 6 p.m. kickoff, begin your day at Apogee Stadium at 9 a.m. For a 3 p.m. kickoff, start your day at 7 a.m.
• Find the best parking and a location to set up your tailgating spread.
• Calculate enough time to start grilling food, prepping beverages and setting up your tent.

Wrap it up

• Start wrapping up your tailgating activities 30 minutes before kickoff. Get friends to help.
• Pick up your tailgating area and use the trash and recycling bins around the stadium.
• Safely dispose of grilling materials such as charcoal by putting them in fire-safe containers.
• Get your game face on and head for the stadium.