Ferris kicked off Paint Big Rapids Pink at its home football game Saturday against Walsh College with live music and tailgating.
Music provided by the Gate was featured during the tailgate party, followed by a performance featuring a local all-female band “Your Mom.”
The Gate paired up with Ferris athletics to help build excitement for the games and the tailgating that happens prior to kickoff. Wes O’Leary, general manager at the Gate, was in charge of hosting music Saturday.
“We’re doing this to get better attendance at the games and to do something for the community at the same time,” O’Leary said. “The Gate isn’t just a bar; we also provide entertainment.”
The Gate helped raise awareness of Paint Big Rapids Pink by also having “Your Mom” perform before the game. This band is a group of mothers who love rock n’ roll. Their performance began at 5:45 p.m. and was unfortunately shortened due to the weather. But they still rocked out.
Kelly Samuels, guitarist and vocals for “Your Mom,” shared why she was excited to be at the tailgate.
“This was a great opportunity,” Samuels said. “We are one of the few all female bands around, so it was a good fit for us to be here today.”
Megan Wilborn, bassist for “Your Mom,” said this was a good opportunity to raise awareness of the cause for Paint Big Rapids Pink.
“It sounded like a ball and a lot of fun. We want to reach some people we don’t normally see when we play around and also be supportive of breast cancer awareness,” Wilborn said.
Not only was “Your Mom” performing at the tailgate, but they also had a second performance at the Gate. Those with a ticket from their game were able to use that as admission to see “Your Mom” play again.
“It will be neat because there will be some people who haven’t seen us before, so that will be a good time,” Wilborn said. “It’s also a different setting than we’re used to. I like how it’s tied in with our performance at the Gate later, so that’s fun.”
Together, the Gate and Ferris athletics were able to provide an afternoon of fun at the game. Both hope to continue to build excitement for the games through live entertainment and events.
“I’m really looking forward to packing up the house for the Bulldogs; that’s my main goal,” O’Leary said.
The Gate has some upcoming events in collaboration with Ferris. The homecoming game will feature “The Rock Show” which will be ‘80s
themed, and the following weekend, Oct. 20, there will be a performance by Stereo Deluxe.