Sept. 6, 2011

MADISON, Wis. -- Before Wisconsin kicks off against Oregon State Sept. 10, Badger football fans are invited to join the Wisconsin Men’s Hockey team at Badgerville, the offical pre-game tailgate of Wisconsin Athletics.

The men’s hockey team will be on hand for photos and autographs as fans get ready for Saturday’s game. Gates open Saturday at 8:30 a.m. Badgerville is located on the spacious grass field just north of Camp Randall Stadium along Breese Terrace.

Badgerville features great entertainment including music, an appearance by members of the UW Band as well current student-athletes and all-time Badger greats. There will also be activities for kids including inflatable games. Fans will also be able to keep track of other college football action on a big screen videoboard.

Fans looking to grab a bite to eat before the game will be in luck at Badgerville. A wide selection of food, beer and beverages will be available. Famous Dave's will be  serving its legendary barbeque. And of course no football pre-game event would be complete without hamburgers, chicken sandwiches and Wisconsin's own Johnsonville Brats.

Badgerville is presented by Johnsonville.

Badgerville will be available to fans before the first five home games including Sept. 10 vs. Oregon State, Sept. 24 vs. South Dakota, Oct. 1 vs. Nebraska and Oct. 15 vs. Indiana.

Wisconsin Athletics and The National W Club will host the Badger Blast before the Purdue game  on November 5 and the Chili Kickoff before the Penn State game on November 26. Both events will be held in the UW Field House 2 1/2 hours before kickoff.