Gorilla Gameday
Gorilla Football
Pittsburg State offers fans and visitors one of the best gameday experiences in the nation. Join Gorilla Nation and enjoy gameday traditions that date back generations.
Champions Plaza
Unveiled in October of 2014, this plaza is designed to honor the passion Pittsburg State students, alumni and fans feel for their university. The most distinctive feature of the 7,000+ square-foot plaza is the hand crafted, 2,000-pound bronze Gorilla sculpture designed by world-renowned artist, Tom Corbin.
The plaza also contains a special “Circle of Champions” with bronze medallions of past Pittsburg State coaches whose teams have earned the ultimate competitive achievement, a national championship.
You’ll also find more than 1,500 individual pavers within the plaza. Each paver can be personalized and hundreds display special messages from Gorillas throughout the world.
This Gorilla was created specifically for Pittsburg State University and is the only one of its kind in the world.
Gameday code of conduct
Pittsburg State University is committed to creating a safe, high-energy and family friendly Gameday experience. When attending an event at Carnie Smith Stadium, fans should be aware of and comply with the Gorilla Gameday Code of Conduct. Stadium and parking lot staff will promptly intervene to support an environment where all patrons can enjoy the game and festivities surrounding it.
Fans are responsible for their behavior as well as that of their guests. Help us make Gorilla Gamedays the best in nation by following the Gorilla Gameday Code of Conduct.
The Gorilla Gameday Code of Conduct is simple: “Gorilla Tailgaters are respectful, responsible, and devoted to their team. Neither rain, nor wind, nor heat of day will silence their voices for they wear the Crimson and Gold. They are strong. They are proud. They are Gorillas!”
If you have questions or need assistance please contact officials on Gamedays using the methods below.
Call 620.235.4624 to contact University Police
Guests attending should refrain from the following behaviors:
- Unruly, disruptive or illegal behavior
- Intoxication or other signs of alcohol or substance impairment
- Foul or abusive language or obscene gestures
- Verbal or physical harassment of other guests
- Tobacco use of any kind, including vaping
- Obscene or indecent clothing or signs
- Conduct that endangers spectators or participants
- Attempting to sit in a location other than the guest’s ticketed seat or designated area
Gameday Tailgating
There’s nothing quite like a Gorilla GameDay tailgate. Fall afternoons at Carnie Smith Stadium are filled with the mouth-watering smells of barbeque, brats, burgers and more. The energy is infectious. We ask that you follow these simple tailgating policies to ensure this Gorilla tradition continues.
Emergency Vehicle Lane
Pittsburg State is committed to helping ensure the safety of our guests. In order to achieve this goal, we require your total tailgate (including guests) be limited to 6.5 feet behind each parking space. To help assist you, we have clearly marked emergency lanes in our most frequently used parking lots. If you have any questions about your tailgate setup please contact University Police at (620.235.4624)
Be responsible
You’ve waited all week for this day. Don’t ruin it, by over-doing it. Intoxication or other signs of alcohol or substance impairment that result in irresponsible behavior is not allowed. State law requires that all persons consuming alcohol be at least 21 years of age in possession of valid ID.
Be respectful
We’re all here to cheer on our favorite team and enjoy the nation’s best tailgating. Unruly, disruptive or illegal behavior is not allowed.
Plastic is fantastic
No glass containers.
Keep Campus Beautiful
Nearly 1,000 pounds of recyclable material is collected at every Gorilla GameDay. Help keep our campus beautiful by placing your paper, cardboard, cans and plastic bottles in approved recycling containers.
Each parking pass comes with a trash bag. Please bag your trash and place it in approved trash cans.
Corporate Tailgates
Ready to take your tailgate to the next level? Reserve a Corporate Tent space to host a private party for larger groups. Dedicated spaces are located just south of the revered Gorilla Walk and border the beautiful university lake. These spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact Pittsburg State University’s Alumni and Constituent Relations at 620.235.4758 to make your reservation or for additional information.
Wrap-up at Kickoff
Alcohol Consumption must stop at kickoff.
See Something? Say Something!
If you see something that concerns you, say something. Contact University Police at (620.235.4624).
Connect!
Get the latest on Gameday events and Pittsburg State athletic updates.
@pittstgorillas – Real-time scoring, game updates, and team records.
@pittstate – University updates, special events, and real-time information.
Get the latest on Gameday events and Pittsburg State athletic updates.
- Parking
- FAQ's
- Policies
- Emergency Info
- Tradition & Points of Interest
Pittsburg State University offers nine parking lots conveniently located within walking distance of Carnie Smith Stadium.
To fully experience Gorilla GameDay, we recommend taking part in our many traditions.
Whether you are a visitor or a member of Gorilla Nation, these policies will help you get the most out of Gorilla GameDay while staying safe.
Providing a fun and family-friendly atmosphere is second only to ensuring your safety while on our campus.
Gorilla GameDays offer something for everyone. Tremendous tailgating, live entertainment, family-friendly activities, delicious food and, of course, the best stadium and winningest NCAA Division II football program in the nation.