The Trojan Tailgaters first started tailgating in 1996 on the Intramural Sports Field next to Sartain Hall. The original group consisted of less than 10 former football players; led by Ted Horsted, their wives, and other Troy Alums. They gathered for each home game at a designated location where Ted parked his 1995 Chevy Tahoe. At that time, tailgating consisted of one picnic table, one card table, a fish cooker and a small Hibachi BBQ grill to share in food, fellowship and fun. Most of the conversations were storytelling of their time on campus at Troy, this event continued to grow for the next 15 plus years; changing and growing along with the University. The Trojan Tailgaters currently reside at the main entrance of Veteran Memorial Stadium-Larry Blakeney Field.

In July 2013, the vision of one member, Rodger Robinson, to have a Formal Alumni Ball was born; our “Balling for a Purpose” to fund an Alumni Scholarship became a reality.

On February 28, 2015, the Troy University National Alumni Association recognized the “Trojan Tailgaters Alumni Chapter” as an official chapter under the University System. The chapter consists of thirty eight charter members that are alumni and friends of Troy University.

Our purpose is to reunite the past and current students and friends, by gathering from time to time through different social events, thus promoting the interest and mission of Troy University National Alumni Association by funding scholarships for deserving students.