UCF Fans Fight For Their Predawn Drinking

Central Florida boosters are used to beginning their tailgating at 7 a.m. New regulations have them up in arms and threatening to boycott the team. What's the new, draconian starting time? An hour later, 8 a.m.

Concerned with fans spending half a day in a parking lot with little to do but drink, the game-day committee bumped the opening of tailgating back to 8, and noon for night games. The regulars are none too pleased.

For years and years, I was the first person at UCF football games," one fan said. "I'm not exaggerating. ... I can't believe they're taking this game-day experience away from me."

A Facebook group opposing the new rule has garnered 1,000 members, and even UCF coach George O'Leary said he plans to protest the changes. Whatever money fans save by not drinking during an ungodly early hour certainly won't be going to the school.

It's not a minor logistical change. It's a huge change," fan Dan Brosen said. " ... People can't do anything about it this year, but I promise they will stop giving to athletics next year."

Congratulations, Central Florida Golden Knights. You're the early favorite for alcoholic college of the year.

Fury Brews Over UCF's New Tailgating Rules [Orlando Sentinel]

UPDATE: Here's a different take