IOWA CITY – The wave at Iowa Hawkeye games is becoming one of the most powerful images in all of college football.
But the gesture to kids at Stead Children’s Hospital wouldn’t be possible without all hands. From the gridiron, to the upper tier.
As spectators flood into Kinnick Stadium, they fill up on the the necessities from the concessions and merchandise stands. Now, there’s one item that’s become a must have.
“We’re really looking forward to coming and saying hi to everybody and doing the wave,” said Emmetsburg resident, Jason Reinders.
For Jason and four, soon to be five year old Carter Reinders, it’s not just excitement to put their hands up in the air.
“We kind of know what they families are going through because this little guy and his sister were born prematurely, so we were in the NICU for three months,” said Reinders.
When heated rivalries fill the bowl, it’s the grand unifier for a powerful cause.
“I think this is great for the families and the kids, showing kids and families that there’s 70,000 people here in Kinnick thinking about them and you know, wishing them the best,” said Lonnie Hostens.
For a few minutes at the end of the first quarter, the clock isn’t about the game but the hands reaching out to the sky.
“It just takes a minute. It doesn’t cost anything to be nice,” said Hostens.
For Hawkeyes, it’s now giving them new bragging rights, with this being called one of the best traditions in college football.
“It makes me proud that something like this came, sprouted right here in the heartland,” said Hostens.
Fans say this moment shows, even when two teams are fighting to win, up in those patients rooms is the victory truly worth cheering for as loud as they can.
“It shows that they care,” said Decorah resident, Tiffany Murphy. “It’s more than just football. It’s about the children.”
It’s the reassurance for kids and parents, of being part of a team.
