Rah Rah Redlands, U of R Takes the Win at First Home Game of the Season

The sun was shining down on a myriad of community members this past Saturday, Oct. 3, as they all shared one common goal: cheer on their University of Redlands (U of R) Bulldogs as the players were preparing for their very first home game of the season against Pomona-Pitzer. Meanwhile, the dedicated fans, former Bulldogs, and community members gathered at the Ted Runner Stadium a few hours prior to the game to get a head start on the fun at the traditional “Rah Rah Redlands” event. The day started at 3 p.m. that afternoon at the Thompson Aquatic Center where they held an "open swim" which was a popular idea due to the hot weather. The family fun and food trucks extravaganza started right next-door at the stadium from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. that evening, right before the kick-off of the Bulldogs’ first home game. Aside from all of the food trucks and fun, there was also a “Kid Zone” conveniently located right there in the stadium designed for younger children. The zone was filled with different games, chances to win prizes, various crafts, and even a bounce house for all the kids to play on. University of Redlands’ Director of Major Gifts Ericka Smith brought some of her family to have a good time and to help cheer on the Bulldogs at their first home game of the season. “We’re all having a great time,” she shared as her younger cousin Jackie was headed toward the bounce house for some fun. The whole family was representing the Bulldogs as they were all matching with U of R gear. U of R’s beloved live mascot Thurber the bulldog was also greeting attendees as they made their way into the stadium, as well as their "human" mascot dressed in the Bulldog suit. He was roaming the stadium taking pictures with fans and enjoying food with alumni, fans, and community members. The stadium was filled with happy fans, players, and a proud head coach Mike Maynard as they took the win over Pomona-Pitzers right on their home field, with a score of 38-7.