Third-party vendor to offer amenities like satellite TV, beverage service and clean-up

Ever since Arkansas State began futzing with the tailgate experience, the tailgate experience at Arkansas State is been a mixture of failure and success. Honestly, I just want access to ice and clean bathrooms. Maybe an electrical outlet. The cheer team driving around in beverage carts would be fantastic.

Instead, A-State has attempted to tier tailgating with the joy of a corporate video. For the deeper pockets, this works well enough. For the average fan, mind if we use the AC-cooled bathroom?

Today, A-State announced it was outsourcing the tailgate to the ridiculously monikered REVEL^XP , which has been given the stamp of approval from A-State’s new Athletic Director Vice Chancellor for Intercollegiate Athletics Jeff Purinton.

“REVEL^XP is a highly-respected company possessing a proven track record of elevating hospitality, services and amenities for many collegiate programs across the country, so we’re thrilled about the potential for this partnership to enhance the full game-day experience for our fans. We believe combining REVEL^XP’s elite services with fan-engagement opportunities such as the Red Wolf Walk and our Kid’s Zone will provide a great atmosphere in our official tailgating area leading up to kickoff.”

All right, fine, great! If you check out the website REVEL^XP has built for the team, the amenities are yet to be clearly defined, but the pricing structure is ready to go. Basically, you can reserve a 10×10 patch of land for $50 alongside or very near Red Wolf Walk. From there, the prices rise dramatically with the addition of more space, chairs, tables, a tent, etc. However, the service is a legit bargain if you consider how much REVEL^XP charges Razorbacks fans.

The add-ons are intriguing. For example, the $400 Varsity Package offers a Vizeo Media add-on, which sounds cool until you discover that the add-on ($495) costs more than the package. More advanced packages range from $800 to $1300. Also, a food and beverage system is in the works, with the logistics still being hammered out.

Location is a nice feature. Set at the Red Wolf Walk, the footprint appears to be located where corporate tents once held exclusive domain. According to the website, “All of our guests receive a site-specific map that indicates their tailgate location for either a single game or the full season.” I suppose that takes some of the stress out of jostling for tailgate position.  

REVEL^XP has an impressive client list, hosting tailgates for a number of SEC and BIG10 schools, plus events like the NCAA National Championship Game. The new packages may not be for everyone, but I think the arrangement may be well worth the dice roll.

PHOTO CREDIT: Me own