Get Ready for Game Day: Your Complete Guide to Friends University Football

There’s nothing like stepping into the roar of the crowd on a crisp Wichita evening. The smell of grilled burgers, students chanting, lights blazing. But the first time you head to a Friends University Falcons fall game, logistics can feel daunting: where to park, how early to arrive, what food to bring (or buy), and how to maximize the student ticket perks. This cheat sheet walks you through exactly what to expect, so your gameday goes from “What do I do?” to “I’ll be there early.”

1. Planning Ahead: Check the Schedule & Buy Early

Always begin with the official Friends Athletics schedule. (after reading this, check out the “Why Friends Fall Sports…” post in our series for the full list of games.)

Buy your ticket in advance. On high-demand games (homecoming, rival matchups) tickets may sell out or have long lines. The official site often offers early bird deals.

If there’s a rain forecast, check for weather policies or rescheduling updates (Friends Athletics or local media).

2. When to Arrive & Timing Tips

If arriving 90+ minutes early you can find parking, find your seat, and grab concessions or merch. At the 60 minute mark warm ups begin. At 30 minutes the national anthem will play and the teams will get their final preparations in.

Arriving early gives you buffer for delays (traffic)  and lets you soak in atmosphere  like student chants, marching band, or sideline warmups.

3. Parking, Entry & Stadium Tips

Primary Parking: Use the lots near Adair-Austin Stadium (if it’s a football game) or designated Friends Athletics lots. These are usually first-come, and filling fast.

Overflow / Remote Lots: If main lots are full, remote parking (with shuttle) may be in use  check game-day maps.

Student Entrance: There is often a dedicated student gate  look for signs or follow student social media directions.

What to Bring: Dress for the weather. Consider a small blanket or towel to sit on. Bring your student ID / ticket on your phone.

Pro tip: Avoid big backpacks or prohibited items (check the official game policy). That speeds your entry.

Accessibility & Family Entrance: There may be special entrances or parking spots  look for ADA signage.

4. Food, Drink & On-site Concessions

On-site options: The stadium usually offers standard game fare (burger, hot dog, soft drinks, snacks). Prices are stadium prices, so expect a premium.

Bring snacks: Small, allowed items (granola bars, water bottles) are wise as a backup  always check stadium rules.

Local picks near campus: Before or after the game, consider nearby eats: campus cafes, local pizza, food trucks. Meddy’s, Cheddars, and HomeGrown are close by with exceptional service and food.

Meal timing: Eat a light pregame snack 1 hour before kickoff so you’re not famished midgame.

5. Where to Sit / Best Views

Student section: Sit with spirited crowd energy on the right side of the stands.

Family / visitor seating: If bringing family, choose seats with better viewing or more legroom (usually midfield sections).

Midgame mobility tips: If sections allow movement, plan when you’ll snap photos or move for a better view.

6. Leaving & Next Moves

Don’t rush out too early, oftentimes the final plays are the most dramatic, and fans linger for music or closing announcements.

Walk out with crowds, then head to postgame meeting point (pre-decided with your group).