University of California, Los Angeles, Athletics
Life Pass Party Hosts Over 1,000 For Homecoming
November 10, 2004 | Bruin Athletics
October 30, 2004
On a sunny, Saturday morning, more than 1,000 former UCLA student-athletes gathered at the Rose Bowl for the 3rd Annual Life Pass Tailgate Party. Guests included members of the 1954 National Championship Bruin Football team, the 1974 and 1984 National Championship Bruin Women's Volleyball team and UCLA's 2004 Olympians.
Attendees feasted on good, old-fashioned tailgate fare of BBQ ribs, cornbread and honey-baked beans from the Newport Rib Company and San Pedro Brewing Company. By the end of the day, it was apparent that this party was about more than just the great food, it was about reuniting with great friends. It was only appropriate that Homecoming weekend be the time for student-athletes from as far back as the 1940's to return to a place that they all once called home, UCLA. The entire day was immersed in a lively and joyful atmosphere as attendees exchanged hugs, handshakes, happy smiles, and fond memories before going on to watch the Bruins shutout Stanford in a 21-0 victory.
Former rowing and spirit squad member Geoff Strand expressed great praise for the event as he claimed it to be "a great opportunity and environment for families, friends, and students to come together and enjoy their Saturday." He later got the crowd to show their true blue Bruin spirit by leading an 8-clap and also giving recognition to the 1954 Football team, a team who brought UCLA its lone national championship.
Without a doubt, this years Life Pass Party was a huge success, bringing together Bruins from decades past. The event definitely created more memories for people to share in the future as they came to realize how special it really is to have been a student-athlete at UCLA. The continuing interest expressed by the attendees this year shows much promise to bigger and better Life Pass Parties for years to come. Please visit the photo gallery for pictures of this special event. If you attended the event and would like to add your comments, please email Scott Mitchell at smitchell@athletics.ucla.edu.
