By: Adriana Torres
Digital Communications Intern
More than 5,000 fans entered Sun Devil Stadium Friday to take a look at the fourth edition of Head Coach Todd Graham’s high-octane offense and hybrid, attacking defense.
The annual Sun Devil football spring game and fan fest brought anxious football fans together for tailgating, up-close football and player interactions.
“It’s for the fans,” Head Coach Todd Graham said.
The parking lots were full of maroon and gold attire, grills smoking and smiles stretching across fans’ faces as their offseason was reenergized with some Sun Devil spirit.
Bill Williams, a Sun Devil graduate of 1973 and an avid fan, won first place in the tailgating contest prior to the game.
His “Rose Bowl Burger” was judged by Senior Associate Athletics Directors Scottie Graham and Don Bocchi, as well as by in-game host Jessica Wills.
Coming in second place was Rob Sanders who cooked his wife’s ribs, as she was too ill to make it to the competition herself.
“There’s no hard feelings if you don’t win. It’s just a good time,” Sanders said. “That’s what Sun Devil football is all about: having a good time and being with family and friends. ASU is a family… a big family.”
Another big fan, Charley Denton, traveled from Flagstaff, Ariz. with his son and grandson to enjoy the festivities. They come every year, but this year was especially unique due to the construction.
“I understand it’s going to be a lot better when it’s done, and I’m really looking forward to this next season,” Denton said.
Fans had the opportunity to take photos in construction vests with the renovation behind them, as well as meet student-athletes after the game for autographs.
For some fans, like Sanders, this is a chance to get a closer look at newcomers or reacquaint with the talents of the upperclassmen.
“To see these young guys and just watch them grow is cool,” Sanders said. “They’re getting ready to dominate this upcoming year.”
But until then, there is work to do.
Although they were playing on just 70 yards of field, fans saw quarterback Mike Bercovici throw a few long balls to DJ Foster in his new wide receiver role.
Jaelen Strong watched from the sideline, along with a number of other Sun Devil letterwinners, including Marcus Hardison, Deantre Lewis and Jamil Douglas.
The Sun Devils’ new head men’s basketball coach Bobby Hurley also looked on and addressed the crowd during a break to a warm welcome.
It was not a traditional game day experience but the spring game gave fans a taste of to the 2015 football season.
“What a great turnout from our fans,” Coach Graham said. “I know there’s a lot of excitement, and there’s good reason for that.”