Jump Around: The Enduring Tradition at the University of Wisconsin
College football is steeped in traditions and rivalries, creating a unique atmosphere for fans and players alike. As the sport commemorates its extensive history, the University of Wisconsin Badgers boast a cherished tradition known as "Jump Around," which has become synonymous with their game-day experience. This article delves into the origins, evolution, and significance of this iconic tradition.
The Genesis of "Jump Around"
The song "Jump Around," a 1992 hit by the hip-hop group House of Pain, unexpectedly became a defining element of Wisconsin Badgers football games. Its debut at Camp Randall Stadium occurred during the October 10, 1998, homecoming game against Purdue. The response was immediate and electric; fans erupted in a frenzy of jumping and excitement. This spontaneous reaction marked the beginning of a tradition that continues to resonate with Badger fans.
Kevin Kluender, the assistant athletic director for marketing and promotions for the UW Athletic Department, aptly described the initial reaction as resembling "popcorn popping." The sheer energy and enthusiasm displayed by the fans solidified "Jump Around" as a potential game-day staple.
From One-Off to Tradition
The selection of "Jump Around" was not accidental. Ryan Sondrup, a Badgers tight end sidelined with a knee injury in 1998, was interning with Wisconsin's athletic department. Tasked with finding ways to invigorate the fan experience, Sondrup sought inspiration at Wando's, a local bar near campus, with teammate Erik Waisanen, who bartended there. While experimenting with songs on the jukebox, they noticed the palpable shift in energy when "Jump Around" played.
Waisanen recalls considering other songs, including Metallica and Mötley Crüe, but "Jump Around" stood out. "(We) looked at each other and were like, 'This one's got to be on the top of the list.'"
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Kluender remembers Sondrup's excitement: "He was like 'I got my first assignment, let's pick some songs on the jukebox.’ ”
The song's debut during the homecoming game against Purdue, led by quarterback Drew Brees, proved to be a pivotal moment. As the Boilermakers drove toward the end zone at the start of the fourth quarter, "Jump Around" blasted through the speakers. The fans responded with an eruption of jumping and singing, creating an atmosphere that energized both the team and the crowd.
"It was just crazy. We looked over and saw the student section. It was unreal," said defensive lineman Erik Waisanen.
The Badgers won that game 31-24, adding to the excitement surrounding the new tradition.
Following the positive response, the marketing department continued to play "Jump Around" at subsequent games. The consistent enthusiasm from the student section confirmed its status as a tradition in the making.
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The "Jump Around" Experience
"Jump Around" is played at the conclusion of the third quarter of every Badger home game. As the opening notes fill Camp Randall Stadium, a wave of excitement washes over the crowd. For two minutes and thirty seconds, fans jump in unison, raising their hands in the air and singing along to the infectious rhythm. The collective energy creates a palpable sense of unity and school spirit.
The tradition also includes the student section race, where the letters of each section appear on the big screen. According to Kevin Kluender, this race started in 1998 alongside "Jump Around" to further energize the crowd.
A Tradition Interrupted
In 2003, "Jump Around" faced an unexpected hiatus. During renovations to Camp Randall Stadium, concerns arose regarding the structural integrity of the stadium due to the vibrations caused by thousands of jumping fans. As a result, the song was temporarily removed from the playlist for the home opener against Akron.
The student section responded with boos and protests, making their displeasure known. "At the home opener, once students realized they wouldn't get to 'Jump Around,' they booed, raised fingers, turned their backs to the field and generally pouted," reported Meg Jones of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
Chancellor John Wiley commissioned a safety engineering study to address the concerns. The study reaffirmed previous findings that, despite the swaying of the upper deck, there was no significant structural risk. "Order was restored in time for the following game," as Kluender said.
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Beyond Camp Randall
The impact of "Jump Around" extends beyond the confines of Camp Randall Stadium. It has become a symbol of Wisconsin Badgers football, appearing on T-shirts, sweatshirts, and other memorabilia. Even commencement ceremonies now feature "Jump Around," allowing graduating students to celebrate their achievements with one final jump.
The tradition has also garnered attention from other Big Ten schools, some of whom have playfully mocked it. Despite the imitation, "Jump Around" remains a uniquely Wisconsin phenomenon.
The Enduring Appeal
The enduring appeal of "Jump Around" lies in its ability to unite fans and create a shared experience. The song's infectious rhythm and simple lyrics make it accessible to everyone, regardless of age or background. The act of jumping together fosters a sense of camaraderie and school spirit, transforming Camp Randall Stadium into a sea of red and white energy.
Waisanen believes the song resonated with students because it was a familiar tune from their junior high and high school days. Its nostalgia, combined with the excitement of the game-day atmosphere, created a powerful connection with fans.
Kevin Kluender emphasizes that the tradition's success stems from the fans' ownership of it. "The thing I like about 'Jump Around' the most is how Badger fans have made it their own. They take ownership of it. It’s part of what makes it so special," he said.
Everlast's Experience
Adding another layer to the "Jump Around" story, House of Pain lead singer Everlast experienced the tradition firsthand during the 2011 Rose Bowl. He performed the song with the Wisconsin marching band, further solidifying the connection between the song and the university.
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