TOWAMENCIN- Often denoted as the holding cell for cars of juniors and those who dropped the ball and turned in their parking registrations late, the abominable S-Lot has recently acquired a whole new meaning for North Penn- one that is far more optimistic.  Organized by senior Mitch Nickerson, the S-Lot is now home to North Penn student tailgating before home football games.  With its debut at the August 31st LaSalle game, the pregame party is the newest addition to the always-spirited North Penn Blue Crew and is set to continue at this Friday’s contest against St. Joe’s Prep as well as every additional 2012 Knight’s home game.

“The idea is to create a chain of tailgates with each tailgate funding the next,” explained Nickerson.  “I came up with the idea from attending a few tailgates last year.  They were really fun and I wanted to bring it back.  The only problem was that they were not very organized and didn’t happen on a consistent basis.”

By creating a Facebook group, surveying students about their interest level, coordinating with Mr. Hynes, and “getting a group of guys together” to set up and supply grills, hotdogs, hamburgers, chips, and drinks, Nickerson made sure that this year, organization would not be a problem.

With fifty students turning in their $3 at the LaSalle game and countless others who attended just to hang out, the first tailgate was a definite success.

“I heard only good things from the people who attended, and a lot more people who didn’t attend seem intent to attend the next tailgate this Friday,” Nickerson explained.

Kevin Coupe, devoted Blue Crew member and North Penn senior, agreed that the tailgate was a great experience.

“I thought the tailgate before the LaSalle game was a blast. Everyone was having a great time and had the chance to catch up with people who they haven’t seen since June. It was the one of the biggest tailgates I’ve ever seen. I think that Mitch Nickerson is doing a fabulous job.”

Nickerson urges all North Penn students regardless of grade level to come out this Friday because first and foremost, “it’s cheap, good food.” And of course, it’s a great way to hang out with friends before the game, meet new people, and show your best school spirit.

But Coupe said it best: “There is no place like Crawford Stadium.”