A Rivalry Week Survival Guide

By Jane Gold ’19

Lafayette and Lehigh battle for the 1921 national championship. We won.

At other schools, our friends are anxious for Thanksgiving break, but at Lafayette, we are anxious about the most anticipated football game ever—Laf vs. Lehigh, Rivalry 152.

First played in 1884, the Lafayette-Lehigh football game is the most-played football rivalry in America.

In addition to the pure excitement of being able to watch this historic game, the Lafayette community hosts a series of events throughout the week leading up to the game.  The variety of activities and events make the anticipation of the game even greater.

Lafayette Activities Forum hosts one of my favorite activities of the week, stuff-a-plush. Students line up hours early in Farinon to ensure they get to stuff an animal of their choice and dress it in a special rivalry day T-shirt. Another highlight is Midnight Breakfast in Farinon where faculty and staff serve students. It is a great way to start gearing up for a great Laf-Lehigh rivalry day.

Here are a few musts to survive Rivalry 152:

• Leopard Apparel: this is the one-day a year where it is considered “normal” to wear leopard print and Lafayette clothes from head to toe. My personal favorite piece, which I will definitely be wearing this year, is my leopard onesie—warm and spirited. No matter what you choose to wear on game day, make sure you are showing your Lafayette pride.
• Take advantage of everything: there are so many special events that take place this year to celebrate the rivalry. Take advantage of everything and make your memories of rivalry week – whether it is your first or last—one that you will never forget.
• Stockpile your sleep: although the week is fun and exciting and game day even more so, there is so much to do and not enough time. Make sure you rest up, manage your time to ensure all your work is done and make the best of the week.
• Have fun: bring your “A” game and let’s show Lehigh why Lafayette is so great.