As the Indiana Hoosiers prepare to compete in the Rose Bowl, fans are embracing a cherished tradition that spans generations. The game, scheduled for January 1, 2024, marks a significant moment for the university and its supporters, many of whom have deep-rooted family connections to IU football.
Andrew Franklin, a dedicated fan, plans to attend the Rose Bowl wearing a gold watch from the 1968 game, which holds special significance for him. “I was two weeks, three weeks old when they went out there last time,” Franklin remarked, sharing his excitement with FOX59.
The legacy of Hoosier football is also evident in the experience of IU alumnus Clay Patton, who is continuing a family tradition established by his grandparents, Gerald and Mary Rainford. Despite the Hoosiers’ loss to the University of Southern California (USC) in that 1968 Rose Bowl, Patton recalls the immense pride his grandparents took in simply being part of such a prestigious event. “Even though IU lost that Rose Bowl game to USC, how excited they were, just to be a part of it and to the pomp and circumstance,” he stated in an interview with WTHR.
During the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Patton took an innovative approach to honor his grandparents’ memory by creating cardboard cutouts of them to sit in the stands whenever he attended games. This gesture reflects his commitment to preserving their legacy and spirit as he joins fellow fans in Pasadena.
Retired sports writer Andy Graham, who has reported on IU football for decades, is also making the trip to the Rose Bowl. “Oh, yeah, you know you’re going,” he recalled his wife insisting after the Hoosiers secured their spot in the game. Graham’s long history with Bloomington football has shaped his passion for covering the team, and this year’s game is a culmination of years of dedication and support.
The Rose Bowl not only serves as a platform for sportsmanship but also as a reminder of the enduring bond that connects generations of fans. As the Hoosiers take to the field, supporters like Franklin, Patton, and Graham will carry with them the pride and history of Indiana University, ensuring that the legacy of Hoosier football continues to thrive.
The excitement surrounding this year’s Rose Bowl reflects the spirit of community that defines IU fans. As they gather in Pasadena, the stories and memories of past games will resonate, adding depth to the experience of cheering for the Hoosiers.
