11/05/2024
The annual Cortaca Jug football rivalry is a celebration for the entire SUNY Cortland community: students, alumni, faculty and staff.
But it’s also a big deal to the Cortland community that welcomed the Red Dragon team back from last season’s national championship with fireworks and cheering crowds.
That’s why, for the first time in the Jug’s 65-year history, SUNY Cortland students and alumni are partnering with the city of Cortland to host a pair of Cortaca events downtown.
On Friday, Nov. 15, the Student Activities Board (SAB) will transplant its annual pre-game pep rally to the parking lot behind Bru 64, at the intersection of Main and West Court streets. Main Street will be closed off between the same streets for the celebration scheduled from 7 to 9 p.m.
In addition to performances by Cortland’s Cheer Team, Kickline, Danceworks and others, 33 Black, a Nevada-based alternative rock band will play. The event will also feature a roaming photobooth, a living statue, chalk art, giveaways, raffles, tabling by campus organizations and performances by four local dance organization. Dignitaries including Red Dragon football coach Kurt Fitzpatrick and Cortland Mayor Scott Steve will deliver remarks.
Three food truck trucks — including Pig Vycious BBQ and Gorilla Street Hibachi — will supplement downtown eating establishments, all of which will be open. SAB will run buses for students between campus and downtown. The city will provide the stage and sound system, portable restrooms and a tent with a capacity of 700 people. Parking will be available and downtown establishments will be open to welcome fans.
On Cortaca Jug game day — Saturday, Nov. 16 — the city and the SUNY Cortland Alumni Association are inviting everyone to the Crown City’s Cortaca Celebration, a downtown watch party set to run from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The same section of Main Street will be closed off and all local establishments, including the food trucks, will be open. The game will be streamed on a large screen under the tent. Following the game, local music and dance groups will provide entertainment.
"We're striving to bridge the gap between the campus and the Cortland Community," said Abby Loiselle, president of the Student Activities Board. "SAB is very excited to bring our annual Cortaca Pep Rally downtown and hopes to continue to provide programming for students within the community."
Kickoff of the game against Ithaca College is noon at James J. Grady '50, M '61 Field at the SUNY Cortland Stadium Complex. In addition, the Alumni Association has scheduled at least 24 Cortaca Jug watch parties scattered throughout the United States.
The weekend caps a week of student-only Cortaca campus events. They include:
Game Show Night, Monday, Nov. 11, 7 p.m., Corey Union Function Room. Students can test their Cortland and football trivia knowledge at this SAB-sponsored event.
Movie Night, Tuesday, Nov. 12, 7 p.m., Corey Union Function Room. The high school football movie Friday Night Lights will be shown and snacks and drinks provided.
Party Smart, Wednesday, Nov. 13, 1-3 p.m., Student Life Center lobby. Students can learn about their rights and responsibilities regarding alcohol, drugs and sex. Sponsored by Conley Wellness Wednesdays.
DIY Cortaca Merch, Wednesday, Nov. 13, 7 p.m., Corey Union Function Room. Students are invited to get crafty and make their own Cortaca Jug apparel to wear during the game.
Cortaca Carnival, Thursday, Nov. 14, 6 p.m., Corey Union Function Room. Games, prizes, food, giveaways and more.
Cortacart, Friday, Nov. 15, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Student Life Center Multiactivity Gym. Students can experience the simulated effects of alcohol and drugs while navigating a go-kart obstacle course. Sponsored by University Police and Prevention Education.
Open Mic Night, Saturday, Nov. 16, 6 p.m., Corey Union Exhibition Lounge. Students are invited to sing on stage during this event, sponsored by the Role-Playing Games Club.
Cortland Cleanup, Sunday, Nov. 17, noon, Crown City Cortaca Tent, Bru 64 parking lot. Students are encouraged to participate in this annual cleanup, sponsored by the city of Cortland and SUNY Cortland Greek Affairs.