Autzen Stadium. Section eight. The roar of the crowd and the electric energy just before kickoff.
That’s what fall at the University of Oregon is all about.
While football may be the most popular spectator sport for Oregon students, there are still plenty of other opportunities to cheer on Oregon student-athletes without breaking your back to claim a football ticket.
Here’s a few pointers to make sure your time as Duck fan encompasses all of Oregon’s fall exciting sports.
Volleyball
It’s shaping up to be another winning season for the Ducks at Matthew Knight Arena. Led by coach Jim Moore and outside hitter Liz Brenner, the Ducks are poised to make a run for the Pac-12 title. Be sure to get to the arena plenty of time before the start of the match to join the Pit Crew for pre-game buzz and chants with the Oregon Marching Band. Because of MKA’s close proximity to the residence halls, volleyball is the perfect opportunity to gather some new friends and cheer on the Ducks.
Don’t miss: Oct. 12, Washington; Oct. 22, Arizona; Nov. 2, Stanford
Football
Attending a game at Autzen Stadium is like running a marathon. Well, not really, but if you do it right, you’ll surely be tired. The gates to the student section open 90 minutes before the start of the game, which is when the primary rush of students sprint down the stairs to grab a position in the first couple of rows. There’s plenty of pre-game excitement at Autzen, especially when Nike founder Phil Knight makes his usual appearance to the cheers of “Uncle Phil” from the student section.
It might be a good idea to bring a reusable water bottle to the game, especially if you plan to add crowd noise to the already hostile environment. There are water fountains to refill your bottles, but they must be empty when you enter. Also, be sure and stick around for the beginning of the fourth quarter, when the entire stadium sings along to Animal House’s “Shout.”
To claim a ticket, avoid using the on-campus WiFi connection as it oftentimes slows down with an extreme increase in usage. Log in about 45 minutes before your time slot to increase your chances of grabbing a ticket to the hottest show in town.
Don’t miss: Oct. 2, Arizona; Oct. 18, Washington; Nov. 1 Stanford
Soccer
So, you didn’t get to see Ronaldo play this year in Rio, but don’t sweat it. Off to a hot start, Oregon soccer features the best of both worlds — thrilling soccer and an entertaining fan environment. Oregon’s women play across the Willamette River at Papé Field, right next to Autzen on the east side. Goalkeeper Abby Steele is on the verge of having a historic senior campaign and senior Lilly Archer will dazzle you with her goal-scoring ability. Admission is free with your UO student ID, every time.
Don’t miss: Oct. 10, Utah; Oct. 26, UCLA; Nov. 7, Oregon State