On Super Bowl Sunday, 12 February, the USA Society and the Bristol Barracuda American Football Team hosted a watch party to celebrate the big game and bring fans together.
A large group of committed fans gathered at the White Harte pub for the 11.30 pm kick-off. As the game was held in Arizona this year, there was a 7-hour time difference in the UK, but the late hour did little to dampen spirits.
‘The Super Bowl is always an exciting day to celebrate with family and friends in the States, so it was nice to celebrate abroad with new friends from university in one of students’ most loved pubs near campus, the White Harte,’ said Blake Makuuchi, Founder and President of USA Society.
Attendees wore their best American football jerseys and USA-themed clothing as they snacked on classic game day bites including fries and 50 pence wings.
‘My favourite part is seeing how dedicated everyone is, staying up from 11.30 pm kick-off until the end of the game past 3 am!’ said Blake. ‘Having this event with everyone makes it feel a bit like home while across the pond. Cheap wings, cold pints, great company, exciting game and good vibes!’
Sam Graham, Barracudas President, said the Super Bowl party took place after a Bristol Barracudas match against the Swansea Titans earlier in the day, further elevating spirits amongst the group.
‘It is fantastic to see this event growing year-on-year as American football establishes itself in the UK,’ said Sam. ‘Our squad is comprised of players from anywhere and everywhere, many of whom have never played or watched American Football before becoming a part of our family.’
Over 60 student athletes and 10 veteran coaches participate in the Bristol Barracudas. The team accepts players with all levels of experience and aims to help build individual skills as well as UK-interest in American football. Students can attend a ‘Give it a Go’ session following in the autumn or come along to a training session to learn more. For more information on the Bristol Barracuda American Football Team, visit their webpage.
The USA Society hosts regular events on campus, including Thanksgiving and pumpkin patch visits, with the goal of building community and providing support for students studying abroad. To get involved in the USA Society, please check out their webpage.