COOKEVILLE, Tenn.  -- As pregame tailgating activities continue to grow in popularity prior at Tennessee Tech's home football games, the Magic 98.5 Tailgate Park at Tucker Stadium is getting more and more crowded.

That's great news, say Tech Athletics officials. Last year, Tech began a new policy of allowing fans and groups to reserve spaces in the tailgating area.

"We're thrilled with how the pregame activities continue to grow," said Mark Wilson, TTU Director of Athletics. "Fans are coming out earlier and taking advantage of the opportunity to have a good time before the game, and to extend their experience of attending a Golden Eagle football game.

"The Magic 98.5 Tailgate Park is really a fun place to be for fans coming to the game," he said. "It's really getting to be an exciting atmosphere buzzing with activity."

Because of the popularity, fans and groups have the opportunity to reserve their space in the tailgating area. Persons wishing to reserve space should contact Misty Pearson, Director of Corporate Sales and Marketing for Tech Athletics. She can be reached by calling (931) 372-3937.

Reservations are not required but recommended, Pearson said. Space is limited in the Tailgate Park area but fans can set up anywhere in the general parking area, as well, on a first-come, first-served basis.

"Some fans want a specific space, so this is their chance to reserve that space," she said. "Some fans want to just show up at the game and find a place and hold their tailgating activities there.

"Either way, there's plenty of room in the Magic 98.5 Tailgate Park, so we want to just continue to encourage people to come out early and be a part of the fun," she said.

The 2009 opener is Thursday, Sept. 10, as Tech will host Pikeville College in the first of five home games this season. The Magic 98.5 Tailgate Park opens at 4 p.m.

For season tickets, visit or call the Athletics Ticket Office in Eblen Center at (931) 372-3940.