Let Your Inner Gator Growl!

This year’s University of Florida Gator Growl, the largest student-run pep rally in the world, will honor what’s called “the greatest senior class in college football history.” It’s only fitting that this year’s theme is “Legends of the Swamp.” The event, which is in its 86th year, is tomorrow (Friday, Oct. 16), at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, and is the culmination of many Homecoming events leading up to the annual Homecoming football game on Saturday.

In planning for the event this year, the Gator Growl Production Team implemented an e-mail address for ideas and suggestions. The e-mails helped determine this year’s talent acts, including comedian Dana Carvey and musical act O.A.R. Another twist includes a performance by the winners of MTV’s America’s Best Dance Crew, the JabbaWockeeZ.

“It’s the first time we’ve ever had three acts,” says director of public relations Bryan Griffin. But what senior Becky Schneider looks forward to are the student skits, which are generally based on campus jokes and rivalries.

“I like how they make it so personable to UF students,” she says, “like last year when they joked about the Turlington preachers.”

Student, faculty and staff tickets cost $15, and all others are $25. And don’t forget to watch the Florida football team play Arkansas on Saturday, Oct. 17.

—Kate Ashby