The Daily Gamecock

Issue date: 2/19/08 Section: Sports

The night before the Garnet and Black spring football game will be just as exciting as the game this year. The University of South Carolina announced last week that it will host Gridiron Bash: The Ultimate Fan Competition, the day before the annual scrimmage.

Sponsored by the New York City-based MSL Sports and Entertainment, the event will take place April 18 and will feature a live performance by the multi-platinum classic-rock band, The Black Crowes.

The brand new event begins at 7 p.m. and will include a variety of fan activities, including appearances by coaches, cheerleaders, Cocky and the marching band. Tickets are currently selling through the university ticket office and the Colonial Center for $38. The tickets can also be purchased online at gamecocksonline.com or gridironbash.com.

South Carolina is one of only 20 Division I schools in the country to be selected by MSL to host a Gridiron Bash. Other universities selected include Tennessee, Kentucky, Texas A&M and Kansas State.

With each of the schools selected known for major fan-bases, it's only fitting that at the core of Gridiron Bash is a fan contest. In the weekend experience, the USA Today Bash for Cash Series will establish which of the participating schools across the country has the best fans.

This calculation will be determined by a combination of the total attendance at the Gridiron Bash event, along with the number of fans that text/call to vote for their school.

"I think the Gamecock Nation will be excited to participate in Gridiron Bash," USC football coach Steve Spurrier said in a release. "I know we will show that we have the best fans in the country."

The winning university will receive a contribution of $1 million to their general scholarship fund from the event sponsor, while 2nd and 3rd place schools will receive $500,000 and $250,000 respectively.

Gridiron Bash offers a new experience for Carolina, allowing Gamecock fans an opportunity to be involved with the program beyond the season. The event will ideally become a part of the spring football tradition centering on the Garnet and Black Spring Game.

"Thousands of spectators come out each spring to watch our football scrimmages, but that's typically where the 'fan experience' ends," Spurrier said. "Gridiron Bash extends the experience and enables fans to support their team, give back to the university and have a great time doing so."

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