Birth of the Iowa Tradition That Went Viral

We were at Kinnick Stadium for the inaugural 1st Quarter Hawkeye Wave. Learn more about the birth of the tradition that went viral. - SahmReviews.com

A few weeks ago we were among the crowd cheering on the University of Iowa Hawkeyes against Wyoming. Although I’ve been an Iowa fan my entire life, this was the first time I attended one of their football games. It wasn’t the football team that finally drew us to the game though. Our entire family was there to support my niece for her inaugural performance with the University of Iowa Marching Band Drumline.

As luck would have it, that’s not the only inaugural thing that happened that day.

We were at Kinnick Stadium for the inaugural 1st Quarter Hawkeye Wave. Learn more about the birth of the tradition that went viral. - SahmReviews.com

At the end of the first quarter, people all around me started waving. Sporting events are riddled with traditions so I figured it was some kind of longstanding tradition to wave to those on the other side of the field. Some kind of community bonding or something. It’s Iowa after all and we’re friendly like that. We didn’t know but when in Rome… so we waved too.

The roaring and even more waves took shape as the public announcement cleared it all up. The recipients of this gush of Iowa love weren’t in the stadium at all. We were all waving at the people watching the game from the top floor of the building next door overlooking Kinnick Stadium. No, this wasn’t some fancy hi-rise or expensive box seats for those with money to burn. These fans were children and their families who temporarily call Iowa City their home.

We were at Kinnick Stadium for the inaugural 1st Quarter Hawkeye Wave. Learn more about the birth of the tradition that went viral. - SahmReviews.com

The building? The University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital. When it was built, the plan was to have a way for the children and their families to enjoy the game. Last year when we delivered our holiday gift guide donations, they gave us a brief tour and you could hear the pride in their voices as they shared about the project.

At the time, I had no idea we would be part of a new tradition involving the hospital, the children and the University of Iowa football program.

 

But we were and every time I read more about it, I get teary-eyed with pride. Not for being part of the tradition, but for being from a state that took prime real estate and earmarked it for children stuck in a hospital. For being in the crowd with people like Krista Young who sparked the idea and individuals who realized the world doesn’t revolve around football – or any other game, sport or event. For being part of a movement that transcends politics and entertainment and unites the community. For seeing fans, officials, players alike all recognizing that something as simple as a smile and a wave can move mountains. It was a great feeling to be there.

I first realized the magnitude when it was shared on SportCenter. Then friends began sharing it over and over again on Facebook. All with different sources: The Washington Post, Reddit, BuzzFeedCBS Sports, ABC News, Business Insider and a multitude of local networks. I smiled when I saw it mentioned on The Today Show.

We were at Kinnick Stadium for the inaugural 1st Quarter Hawkeye Wave. Learn more about the birth of the tradition that went viral. - SahmReviews.com

Even industry professionals such as David Housel, former Auburn University Sports Information & Athletic Director, chimed in.

We were at Kinnick Stadium for the inaugural 1st Quarter Hawkeye Wave. Learn more about the birth of the tradition that went viral. - SahmReviews.com

I’ve participated in traditions before, but nothing like this – especially not when it first happened. I’m proud to be among those.

Kudos to the University of Iowa and all the people who helped make this a reality.

23 thoughts on “Birth of the Iowa Tradition That Went Viral

  1. My husband is being treated there for cancer (Iowa City) and during the course, the childrens wing was being built. In the past the kids were on a regular floor, and truthfully it was much like any other ward. We had to pass their ward on our way to the department hubby visited.
    They began work on the kids wing (Stead) shortly after he started going there. They started with a wonderful playground…. and the kids were smiling again. The kids wing was finally completed, and it was a beautiful thing. My neighbor, a union carpenter here in Waterloo was one of many who helped build it.
    It is beautiful there, and very kids friendly. Not at all like the rest of the hospital at all. The kids are ill but it is a whole different atmosphere. We went up and visited the new wing, and hubby said he wouldntmind staying there himself!
    It’s great they can see the game, I am glad Stead was designed so those that wanted to could see it. And the wave? A wonderous thing.
    Thanks for posting about it, it truly is a great hospital.

    1. Thank you for sharing your perspective, Ellen. I’ve not seen it from the inside as you and your husband have and appreciate what you’ve contributed to our story. Hearing how a hospital, something often cold and sad, has been transformed into a place that returns a smile to a child’s face is remarkable. I’m sorry your husband is battling cancer and hope the University of Iowa is doing all they can to cure him. Yes, it truly is a great hospital and solidifies our desire to support it.

  2. I never knew this! This is such a great tradition! I hope it continues for a long time as I am sure that this little bit of joy really help those kids and families!

  3. Football is a tradition that even here in Texas plays a huge role in Autumn/Fall events. I live in a small town in Texas where football takes over even the “bigger” radio stations at night. I love reading this and this was an incredible article!

  4. Oh this is so heatwarming. I love this tradition that Iowa started. This will definitely brighten a child’s day.

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