Every Fall at WSU one event seems to take over campus: the Apple Cup. Many fans, friends and families make their way across the state to take part in the annual rivalry football game between Washington State and University of Washington.
If you’ve been on campus lately, you’ve likely heard non-stop talk about the Apple Cup. As we approach the big day, Cougars’ spirits are shooting through the roof.
The rivalry match has been around for over a century, beginning in 1900 and has become a long standing tradition. The Washington teams fight to win the Apple Cup trophy and bragging rights. The annual match-up has grown into one of the most well known games in college football.
Aside from what happens on the field, the atmosphere surrounding the game is what makes it special for WSU; the Pullman community connects with Cougar pride.
“I’m most excited to be able to experience my first Apple Cup with my mom since she’s coming up to visit. I feel very passionate about the rivalry and I hope we win,” said Mckenna Gopal, a first-year student at WSU.
Many students lean into Cougar traditions the week prior to the game with tailgating, decorating, elaborate outfit planning and more.
Groups of students plan to partake in traditions such as these, reinforcing community through rivalry.
For the players, there is a lot hanging on this game. The Apple Cup is a chance to represent the entire student body, and leave their own mark on the history of the event.
In previous years this game has delivered dramatic endings, close scores and plays that are still talked about years later.
Knowing it holds more weight than any other, this is a battle for not only bragging rights but state pride as well.
Out of the 80 students who contributed to an Apple Cup score predictions poll I conducted, about 80% of them plan on attending the match or watching from home.
Although some may have worries and concerns, an overwhelming 92% of the contributors firmly believe that WSU will win by either a landslide or a last second touchdown.
As we approach kickoff, social media continues to flood with spirited trash talk between the two universities, and of course it gets competitive. Online discourse between WSU students gives people the chance to bond over a common opponent, the Huskies.
Students and fans are stocking up on Cougar merch, friends are finalizing gameday plans, and the campus is buzzing with excitement. Regardless if you’re a football fanatic or not, the Apple Cup is one of the highlights of the fall semester at WSU.
Kickoff against the University of Washington is at 4:30 p.m. this Saturday in Martin Stadium. Go Cougs!
