The Hawks Nest is the Official Student Section of the Iowa Hawkeyes. We strive to be the most energetic and passionate students in the country while supporting our Division 1 athletic teams. Our goal is to bring excitement to fans and intimidation to opponents. We create a rowdy atmosphere while maintaining respect and sportsmanship.
WIN. GRADUATE. DO IT RIGHT.
8000+ Students
Kinnick Stadium
2000+ Students
Carver Hawkeye Arena
Top 5 Football Student Section
- 2021 Live Mas Student Section Challenge
KINNICK STADIUM
STUDENT SECTION SEATING MAP
Traditions
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Tailgate
Travel along Melrose Avenue to find the perfect turkey leg, Hawkeye Swag and maybe your new best friend. Afterward, come hangout at the Official Hawkeye Tailgate located on the south side of Kinnick Stadium in the Krause Family Plaza and opens to all fans 3-hours prior to kickoff.
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SWARM
In a tradition started by former Coach Hayden Fry, players interlock arms and take the field as a team. The fans turn into a frenzy as AC/DC's Back In Black blares.
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Kickoff
Prior to the opening kickoff, students remove their keys, shoes, or whatever else they can think of and raise them in the air, violently shaking them.
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The Wave
At the end of the first quarter, fans and players turn and wave to the patients of the Stead Family Children's Hospital. This is pegged annually as one of the best traditions in college football.
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I-O-W-A
Following every score, each corner of the stadium participates in the I-O-W-A chat where each section is challenged to yell their letter louder than the rest. The chant starts in the student section with "I" and continues around the stadium, often lasting through the start of the next play.
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Hawkeye Marching Band
The Hawkeye Marching Band puts on a pre-game concert one hour and 15-minutes prior to each game. The concert is free to all fans and takes place at the Recreation Building (indoor track). About 20-minutes before kickoff, the Hawkeye Marching Band takes the field for their pre-game performance and again at halftime.
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Hawkeye Victory Polka
After each victorious outcome, the marching band plays their rendition of 'In Heaven There is No Beer' as fans sing along joyously.
Know Before You Go
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Gates
Kinnick gates open 90 minutes prior to kickoff. Parking lots open 6 hours prior to kickoff, but no earlier than 6 A.M.
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Cell Service
Kinnick can draw quite a large crowd. This inevitably slows down the internet speed around the stadium. We encourage all fans to make sure they have their ticket downloaded to their phone prior to arrival.
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Allowed Items
Kinnick has implemented many security measures for fan safety. The list of approved items includes the following: Bags that are clear plastic and do not exceed 12″ x 6″ x 12″, Clutch bags that do not exceed 4.5″ x 6.5", Factory-sealed water bottles or empty refillable bottles, Blankets and seat cushions, and Food items that are in a clear storage bag.
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Student Entry
All students should use gate B as their entry point to the games. This entrance is directly below the student section or on the southwest portion of the stadium. Remember your University ID!
FAQ
When do tickets go on sale for the upcoming year?
Football season tickets go on sale April 23rd at 9am for returning students through the student ticket portal. Winter sports (men’s basketball, women’s basketball and men’s wrestling) will go on sale in the fall. Following season ticket sales, select public general admission tickets may be available through the portal at a later date. All other sports will have ticket options available closer to the start of their respective season.
I missed out on season tickets, is there another way to get tickets to football or basketball?
Some games may have general admission tickets available to students at a later date. Keep your eye on the student ticket portal for these extra tickets.
I bought student tickets, but I never received my emailed tickets?
Student tickets are dispersed in mid to late August through the email provided during checkout, not immediately following your transaction. If you still need assistance please call 1-800-IA-Hawks or email Tickets@HawkeyeSports.com.
How do I obtain tickets to sports other than football and basketball?
Sports outside men’s basketball and football are free to students. However, sports including softball and baseball, women’s gymnastics, women’s basketball, wrestling and volleyball require students to claim a ticket. To obtain these tickets visit yourstudent ticket portal.
Where do I obtain tickets for championships or bowl games?
For season ticket holders, including students, all championship and bowl tickets will be available on Hawkeyesports.com soon after announcement of the matchup. All other ticket purchases will have to be made through third party sites such as SeatGeek, the official marketplace of the Iowa Hawkeyes.
