Hey Hawks,

With football season coming to an end, I thought I’d talk about one of my favorite things to experience during home games: the Wave. In case anyone doesn’t know what it is, the Kinnick Wave is a heartwarming tradition at the University of Iowa’s Kinnick Stadium. At the end of the first quarter of every home game, all fans, players, and coaches turn to wave at the children and families watching from the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital. The wave isn’t just a gesture; it’s a symbol of hope, strength, and community.

Behind the wave, there is an emotional purpose. This moment stands as a show of support for the kids and families at the hospital. It gives patients something to look forward to on football game days, and it’s a reminder that they are not alone in what they are going through. A simple wave becomes a message: “We see you. We’re cheering for you.”

Next, the wave is a moment of unity. For 60 seconds, fans from both teams, players, coaches, and rivals come together. It’s one of the few moments where competition completely disappears and pure humanity shows. It highlights what Iowa culture represents: kindness, compassion, and community. It’s a rare moment in sports where everyone is on the same team.

The wave also reaches far beyond the football field. It represents resilience, hope, and support that extend past game day. Families say it’s often the highlight of their week, and for many kids, it becomes a source of motivation during some of the hardest moments of their lives. This is a tradition that reflects the heart of Iowa’s community, and it shows the power sports have to bring people together for something meaningful.

Overall, the wave is more than just a tradition; it’s a moment of love. It shows that compassion is louder than rivalry and that even in a packed stadium, there is room for connection, empathy, and support. If you ever get the chance to go to a football game, this is a tradition worth participating in, protecting, and sharing for years to come.