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TAILGAT SPOTLIGHT: Jay Yerama

@arcurimike

Edmonton Elks games are exciting, but its the great fans of the Double E that make them a special experience. The gameday experience has become even better with the introduction of the EE Tailgate. Because of our great fans, the tailgate has become the go-to spot for fans to mingle before the game.

Over the course of the season, we want to highlight the incredible Season Seat Members that make the tailgate so special. We spoke with Jay Yerama to see what they love about the unique to football experience.

What made you want to take part in the EE Tailgating?

My wife Paula and myself have been Season Ticket Holders since 2018 after enjoying coming to games in previous years with friends. Our Season Ticket Holder Group loved the game experience sitting in the always sunny Section O! In 2022 we started to walk-thru the Tailgate area before the game and had a great time. The atmosphere was always fantastic and a true celebration of the team by the fans. When we learned a Tailgate spot was available in 2023 we jumped on it with our fellow Season Ticket holders friends Tara and her daughter Brielle. We really love being able to park close to the stadium and relax before the game.

What has the gameday experience been like since you’ve started tailgating?

We have had such a fun time setting up early, making a fun meal and enjoying some refreshments before the game with fellow fans. Sharing our extras with fellow tailgates and making new friends has been such a fun game experience.

What is the best part about tailgating?

I really love setting up and cooking something fun from the truck. But I think the most rewarding part is when we get friends to come to the game for the first time and check out the Tailgate area and watch a game. They are always so surprised and impressed with the energy and fun.

How has the atmosphere changed from the first year to now?

We have definitely noticed the increase in fun interactive activities near the tailgate area. However the parking area is definitely a tighter to fit.

What would you say to fans who have never checked out the tailgate?

I know a lot of folks come in via the LRT just in time for the start of the game, and never get a chance to walk around the stadium to check out all of the fun activities in the tailgate area. I highly recommend folks to come out a bit earlier to check out the band, beer garden and fun activities.