August 30, 2018
ETBU’s first Tiger Football home game was held on Thursday, August 30 at 7:00 p.m. against Wisconsin-Platteville. Prior to the game, the University hosted a community-wide tailgate, consisting of the Tiger Walk, food trucks, live music, lawn games, bounce houses, and giveaways.
“There is nothing better than a starting the 2018 football season on a Thursday night in Marshall on the ETBU campus. From tailgating and the Tiger Walk to the game, our fans and supporters make the game-day experience one of the best in Division 3 football. We are thankful for the support from the ETBU Family and the Marshall community for their attendance, and we are truly excited for the 2018 season,” Vice President for Athletics Ryan Erwin said. “I would also like to express my appreciation to the ETBU Marketing Department, Physical Operations, and the Athletic Facilities crew for all their efforts to make tonight a first-class event.”
Many of the food trucks featured at the tailgate, including Joe Pine Coffee Co., Sweet Treats and More, Street Licious, and Kona Ice, are owned by ETBU Alumni. Live music was led by the Greer Family, Zach Ervin (’17, ’18), and DrewClaire Culotta (’22), Mark Ramos (’18), and Jacqueline Ramos (’12, ’17).
“My family has a long standing history with ETBU, beginning with my grandparents in 1965,” ETBU sophomore Cayla Greer expressed. “My parents also met on campus in 1986. All of my five siblings have either attended or graduated from the University. Joey, Jared, and I have been leading worship together since I was in middle school. We consider it a blessing and honor to have performed for our Tiger Family during the tailgate.”
Leading up to the game, ETBU held meet and greet events to introduce the new Tiger Football coaches. The events provided an opportunity for the community to fellowship with the coaching staff and student-athletes to hear their passion for the game and heart for the Lord.
“Since the Spring, the coaching staff has talked about family and being united,” ETBU Football Head Coach Brian Mayper said. “Henotace, our team theme, is a Greek word that means ‘unity’ or ‘togetherness.’ It’s mentioned twice in the book of Ephesians, referring to the church body. We strive to embody the words of Romans 12:10, ‘Be devoted to one another in love, and honor one another above yourself.’ We teach our guys that, while winning games is our focus, remaining united in Christ is primary.”
Throughout the Tiger Football game on August 30, the team’s comradery was evident on the field. Although the Tigers lost to the Pioneers 59-44, they look forward to their upcoming season. The Tigers will face Southwestern University at their next home game on Saturday, September 15 at 6:00 p.m. ETBU invites the campus and community to tailgate traditionally prior to kick-off. Visit https://goetbutigers.com/ to view the full schedule and find more information on Tiger Athletics.
“I don’t think I’ve ever been around guys that are more close-knit than this group,” ETBU quarterback junior Brian Baca shared. “Preparing for the game, we learned to endure and work hard together. Throughout the summer and practice, we have bonded as brothers.”