Cyclones tailgate tour makes stop in Clear Lake

(ABC 6 News) – In front of over 500 Cyclone fans, one of the largest the tour has seen, the Iowa State tailgate had coaches and supporters mingled inside the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake.

“The fact that we get to come out and see the fans instead of them coming to Hilton [Coliseum], it’s kind of like a payback a little bit, like ‘we owe you one,'” ISU wrestling head coach Kevin Dresser stated. “I love Clear Lake, I’m a humble guy so I’m kind of close to home and I love Clear Lake.”

The night was also one of celebration, honoring the Women’s Basketball team’s Big 12 Title. Former ISU quarterback Brock Purdy going from the last pick in the NFL Draft to a game away from the Super Bowl, and of course, winning the Cy-Hawk Trophy.

“We’re such a young football team and were a year ago that I think we’ve tried to really keep the mindset of one game at a time.” Cyclones football head coach Matt Campbell added. “This great fanbase, this incredible stadium and they’re here to watch your football team and you’re really humbled, you’re really grateful to be a part of that.”

As everyone is eager for the next season of ISU Athletics, the evening highlighted the strong bonds and goals that all ISU faithful share. Because it is the kind of moments and memories made at the Surf Ballroom that are what fuel the storm behind the Cyclones.

“Iowa State and this program this university and all the people here mean the world to us personally,” men’s basketball head coach T.J. Otzelberger affirmed. “So, we want to make that impact on the community, we want to make that experience great for our fans and continue to move the program forward.”

The Tailgate Tour will continue on May 22 when ISU Athletics begins Week 2 out in Marshalltown.

Coach Campbell also spoke with ABC 6 Sports Reporter José Solís live about the tour as well as players with North Iowa ties this coming season on ISU Football.