It’s that time of the year again when Gamecocks flock to Williams-Brice Stadium decked out in their garnet and black. For many students, this will be your first “Saturday in South Carolina” as a Gamecock.
We understand this annual rite of passage can be a bit daunting for first-timers, so here are some tips to make the most of your gameday.
Before the game
First things first: You need a ticket. You can apply for a student ticket in the Cockpit app using your USC credentials. For home games, ticket requests open at 10 a.m. Friday the week before the game and close at 3 p.m. Tuesday of game week.
Tickets are free for students, but getting one is based on a points system. For the best chance at getting that coveted student-section ticket, make sure to support other athletic teams to earn points. For more information on the point system and Cockpit, check out this guide.
Prior to the game make sure you understand the stadium guidelines. USC has a clear-bag policy like most major sporting venues. Large bags and most purses are not allowed in. Here’s the full list of prohibited items.
However, a great tip to remember, especially for early season games, is you are permitted to bring one empty clear plastic disposable water bottle or one sealed clear plastic disposable bottle of water into the stadium to help you stay hydrated in the Columbia heat.
Finally, be sure to wear your Gamecock pride to the games. Some great options to find your new Saturday staples are the Campus Bookstore, Miss Cocky Boutique, Addam’s Gamecock Gear or check out secondhand shops for a vintage Gamecock look.
On gameday
Make sure you have something to eat and plenty of water before heading to Willy B. Also, for day games make sure you have a hat and/or sunscreen to protect you from the Carolina sun. Remember to charge your phone to 100 percent. You will need your digital ticket to get in and you will want to take pictures, text friends and maybe order a ride home after the game.
Come to the Tailgate on Greene Street before home games and enjoy free food, games and fun with other fans. Or stop by Gamecock Walk — about 2.5 hours before kickoff — to cheer on the players as they enter the stadium.
Also keep an eye out for our live mascot, Sir Big Spur, for a photo op.
Getting to Williams-Brice
Bring your Carolina Card to use the free Gameday Shuttles that start running four hours before the game and pick up at three locations: Lincoln at Devine, Russell House and Bates/Campus Village on Bull Street. Drop-off will be at the State Fairgrounds just north of the stadium, where you will pick up the return shuttle after the game.
Ride share apps are also an option. Check your student email before the game for a student discount code provided by Student Government.
Finally, it’s time to enter the stadium. Make sure you have saved your ticket to your phone wallet to avoid any cell service issues as 80,000 fans enter the stadium. Have it ready to scan to save time in line.
Countdown to Sandstorm
Now that you’re in the stadium, follow signs to find your section and fill up your water bottle at a big blue monster filling station.
Student seats will have a rally towel waiting for you and the pregame Sandstorm. Don’t be shy about showing your team spirit, but do be courteous and respectful of your neighbors, the opposing team and their fans and game officials.
Most importantly, stay all the way through the end of the game. Win, lose or draw, we support our Gamecocks. Plus the band will play special songs for the student section after the game, including the alma mater — learn it here — and you will get a voucher as you leave through the student gates to earn even more points on the Cockpit app.