Clemson Fan Day 2017

On Sunday, Clemson football fans got to see their favorite players and get some autographs at Fan Day. The annual event is always a hit and this year was no different. 

The players and coaches were made available for fans from 2:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. for autographs and a few pictures(not guaranteed)

Last year, I gave a few pointers on making the Fan Day experience more enjoyable and efficient. Of course, I used my own advice to help me get some autographs and get home quicker to beat the inevitable “eclipse” driven traffic heading into South Carolina. I did “Come Early“(before 11:00)but totally forgot to empty my energy drink filled bladder before getting in position on the steps in front of Gate 9. I was early enough to be able to use the portable toilet near the West Zone, but it was occupied and the second option of going to LittleJohn Coliseum failed because access was denied until 1 p.m. Unfortunately, it was back to the steps for me.

Again this year, head coach Dabo Swinney’s line in the West Zone was super long. I was told by a security personnel that some fans were lounging in chairs as early as 7 a.m.

Deshaun Watson drew a big crowd last year too, and I quickly found out what other lines rivaled Swinney’s this time. It was the defensive linemen and the wide receivers. I wasn’t surprised and that’s why I positioned myself at Gate 9 to make a run at the linebackers and defensive backs. Well, at the moment of entry, there was no running for me.

My restricted mobility reminded me of the time, when I waited to meet my favorite NFL quarterback at a charity golf tournament. It got so bad that I could barely walk and at one point, the nice couple next to me said, “Look at your eyes.”

Back to Sunday, I was able to get autographs from every linebacker and defensive back in less than 30 minutes. I was early.

As I walked down to the defensive linemen, I could see the mass of fans waiting in line for a chance to get the signatures of Christian Wilkins, Dexter Lawrence, Clelin Ferrell, and all of the other members of one of the top units in college football.

Next, I checked in on the receivers. A line that was too long for my situation. Last year, the receivers’ area was filled with tons of energy and swagger. It’s a position that almost personifies such characteristics and this group didn’t disappoint from afar. From Diondre Overton signing the back of a fan’s T-shirt to Deon Cain’s constant laughter and smiles, and Hunter Renfrow signing copy after copy of his Sports Illustrated cover, this group was beaming with enthusiasm.

After a slow walk to the bathroom in LittleJohn, I was done before 4pm. I never saw Coach Swinney, the offensive linemen, special team members, running backs, or quarterbacks, but there is always next year.

Once again, the Clemson administration and athletic department did a great job of making Fan Day special for the players, their families and the thousands of fans who were able to travel to Memorial Stadium. I’m not sure if the total eclipse hysteria affected Sunday’s attendance, but as I said above, it shortened my stay in the upstate.

Just like when I met my favorite quarterback, I still managed to have a good time despite my urge to whiz.

With my $29.95 autographed National Championship ball in hand, I left satisfied with seeing the Tigers and enjoyed another event that makes Clemson University such a special place.

Until 2018.