Amidst the familiar scene of open bed trucks, grilling brats, and spirited cornhole games on college campuses nationwide, BYU’s football fandom stands out. Beyond the traditional tailgating rituals, a growing contingent of Cougars fans has incorporated a unique tradition—service initiatives aimed at benefiting local communities during away games. Dubbed “Cougs Care,” this altruistic movement, organized by BYU Alumni, not only reflects an appreciation for rival hosts’ hospitality but also garners attention for its positive impact.
In a sports environment where rivalries often manifest through expletives and jeers, BYU’s goodwill initiatives have become noteworthy. For instance, ahead of the upcoming game in northeastern Oklahoma, fans will unite at BYU’s tailgate to collaborate with Catholic Charities of Eastern Oklahoma. The focus is on collecting athletic balls through an Amazon Wish List, benefitting local youth and refugees, especially considering Oklahoma’s significant Afghan refugee population.
This pre-game charity effort is the culmination of a month-long series of initiatives leading up to the game. The “40 service projects in 40 days” initiative, organized by the local Stillwater Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and BYU alumni, has seen remarkable success. Projects range from refurbishing food pantries to crafting blankets for needy children, demonstrating a broad and impactful outreach.
The collaborative effort extends beyond fans, with The Church of Jesus Christ contributing $21,000 to the Central Oklahoma Community Action Agency. This donation specifically targets providing shoes and socks for Payne County Youth Services, addressing a crucial need identified by local representatives.
BYU’s foray into combining sports and service began in 2019 with a coat and food drive in partnership with Knox Area Rescue Ministries. Since then, these efforts have gained momentum, particularly during the 2021 season. Examples include donating diapers in Pasco County, books in Lynchburg, and socks and gloves in Albuquerque during the 2022 bowl game.
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BYU’s unique approach to service involves not only fan contributions but also semitrailer truck-sized deliveries of food staples by The Church of Jesus Christ to rival cities’ food shelters. This holistic initiative underscores the decentralized fan base’s ability to make a significant impact across the country.
Beyond charitable endeavors, BYU’s approach extends to highlighting the positive aspects of rival teams on national TV and radio networks before games. This balanced coverage showcases the opponent’s achievements, contributing to an environment of mutual respect.
As BYU continues to redefine football culture through service, the hope is that this trend will inspire other universities to embrace similar initiatives. BYU’s commitment to building bridges between rivals demonstrates a belief that sports can serve as a platform for fostering unity and goodwill, transcending the boundaries of competition.
