Sporting events are often a great way of meeting new people and getting a glimpse of what Pierce has to offer.
UMOJA and Associated Students Organization (ASO) will host a free tailgate that allows students to enjoy themselves as they provide free food and entertainment before the men’s basketball game against West LA College on Wednesday.
ASO President Efren Lopez said, “This is our third tailgate with UMOJA, and we want to continue the tradition.”
Jordan Rice, an UMOJA student worker, said he has enjoyed previous tailgates and hopes others do too.
“I’ve been a part of the other tailgates and I know that as a member of UMOJA, we want students to come out, have fun and get involved by obtaining valuable information that will help them,” Rice said.
Lopez said that events like the tailgate not only bring students together, but also builds a community.
“We’re here to show support to our student athletics because we know that community college can sometimes be a little difficult when creating that community and family bond,” Lopez said.
Lopez said that when sports, a program that is dedicated to their students and a strong backbone like ASO is tied together, everyone wins.
“In these tailgates, we have a mixture of things from free food, snacks, games, raffles, and networking between the Pierce staff and its students,” Lopez added.
Melody Smith, UMOJA’s counselor said that although the program focuses on the African American culture, they are available to help everyone.
“UMOJA is here to help and enhance every student need. Our yearly program focuses on academics, leadership, and gives back to the community,” Smith said.
The tailgate will begin at 6 p.m. in front of the gym and tipoff begins at 7 p.m. on the Ken Stanley Court in the South Gym.
UPDATE as of Feb. 14 at 11:19 a.m.: The tailgate is at 4 p.m. in front of the gym. The women’s basketball game begins at 5 p.m. and the men’s basketball game begins at 7 p.m.
