It’s finally here! Home opener weekend! We’ve had a busy off season working towards this match, and I think it’s safe to say everyone is extremely excited. We do have a lot of information to get out there regarding our plans for the opener. We’ve compiled an FAQ answering any question we could think of. I highly recommend new folks read through the below so you know what’s going on. If you were around last season our plans are mostly the same with minor tweaks here and there. If we did miss something and you have a question please let us know in the Facebook comments or @ us on Twitter.

Tailgating

When does the tailgate start?

Our tailgates typically start 3 hours before kickoff. On special occasions, such as the opener, we like to start the party a little earlier. We’re starting our home opener tailgate at 3:00pm.    

Where are you tailgating?

We will be in the west lot between Highmark Stadium and the Fort Pitt Bridge. Normally we try to set up along the river side of the lot, however due to some parking changes we may be moving over slightly. We’re the first ones there so you can’t miss us. Once we establish where the tailgate will be at the opener it’ll be in the same spot for the rest of the season.

Any rules I should know about?

Yes but it’s mostly parking related. Although it may not have seemed like it, last season parking was a little lax. This year we’ve been informed they are going to bring it more in line as to what you see on the North Shore during Pirates and Steeler games. This means you will not be able to use or purchase empty spaces for tables or tents, and they’re going to be a little stricter about not blocking the road.

We also ask that you please clean up after yourselves. We’ll have extra trash bags if you forget some.

I hear there’s a food table. What’s up with that?

One of the great aspects of the Steel Army tailgate is the communal nature of it, and facilitating that is our food table. We’ll have finger foods for everyone to chow down on, and we encourage everyone to contribute. We are trying to organize it a little more this year so that there isn’t a ton left over to throw away. Please see the posts in the Facebook groups regarding that.

What about booze?

We don’t officially have a communal beer spot because that’s a bit of a sticky legal thing. Woo Pennsylvania! That said most of us bring extra and aren’t shy about sharing as long as you’re 21+. Also try to avoid bottles.

I really need to pee. Where can I go?

The good news is the Hounds are getting port a johns this year, though we’re not sure exactly where they will be. Also, from our understanding they may not have them at the opener due to some contract issues, but if that’s the case the Bristo will be open to use without you having to enter the stadium. There will be a guard at the door. Show your ticket and you can go pee.

Will you be selling merch? What about memberships?

We’ll have a dedicated merch table set up where you can purchase a scarf, pick up your membership package, or becoming a member on the spot. We take cash and Visa / Mastercard through Square.

I hear there’s a raffle this year.

Sure is! We’ve done it at the first two watch parties and it’s been fun. See this post for details.

When does the tailgate wrap up?

We wrap up the tailgate and march into the stadium about 30 minutes before the match starts. At 6 we’ll have some general announcements and go over a chant or two. At 6:20ish we’ll start heading in. We like to go in a little earlier for the opener.

Are there any changes to the march this year?

Yes! Last season we had problems with long lines at the east entrance which was quite the buzz kill. To fix this we’ve worked with the Hounds to have our own entrance so that we can get through security quickly. We will be entering the stadium through a side gate on the west side near the bike path, and then march to our section from there. This entrance is only open for our march so if you’re a late comer you’ll have to go through the main gate.

The Match

Where is the supporters section?

The Steel Army sets up shop in the east stands behind the goal.

What can I expect during the game?

A lot of fun! We stand during the game, sing our hearts out, bang the drums, wave flags etc. The section is general admission so sit wherever you want!

Do you have any specific songs or chants?

Sure do! They can be found at http://steelarmypgh.com/chants We’re also known to make some up as we go, and are always open to ideas.

Can I bring my own drum / flag / two-stick?

Yup! Making your own flag or two-stick adds to the unique experience we bring. Our only caution with instruments is we don’t want to drown out the chants by accidentally having a full marching band. Please let us know if you want to bring an instrument beforehand.

What do I do with the flag afterwards?

For the flags we provide please leave them in the section and a Steel Army member will collect them after the game. If you want to leave a flag that you brought to donate it to the flag collective we’re all for it.

What’s this about smoke?

One of the things that makes supporters culture unique in North American sports is the use of smoke devices. We’ve been working with the Hounds front office and Station Square officials to allow us to use smoke devices during games. Expect smoke to be set off after goals, during TIFO displays, and at the end of the game (if they win, and if we have any left). The smoke we’ll be using is nontoxic, will always be set off in the same place, and lasts approx. 30 seconds. ONLY A DESIGNATED STEEL ARMY REPRESENTATIVE IS AUTHORIZED TO USE SMOKE DEVICES. ANY UNAUTHORIZED USE WILL FACE EXPULSION AND BANISHMENT.

TIF-who?

TIFO. TIFO is another uniquely soccer thing where supporters groups come together to create large displays (usually banners) supporting the team. Portland and Seattle are well known for their TIFO displays in MLS. A couple times a season we will have TIFO displays, and this year we are going bigger and better. TIFO is displayed immediately after the national anthem. We request that you hold up your scarf during TIFO unless otherwise noted.

Speaking of scarf- wasn’t my supporter’s section season ticket holder scarf supposed to be mailed?

Yeah but unfortunately the team hit some snags. There will be a table set up in the stadium for you to pick up your scarf. Just show your ID and season ticket to the Hounds staff member.

 
I think that hits everything. If you have any questions please let us know. We’ll see everyone on Saturday!

#UNLEASH