Ep 8. Texas A&M University: Kyle Field

Texas A&M University is known for its great football program, and in this episode of Fields Of Glory, we explore the history and significance of Kyle Field, the home stadium of the Texas A&M Aggies.

The episode starts with a brief history of the university and how it played a critical role in the Texas Revolution. We then move to the football program and explore the origins of the Aggies' famous "12th man" tradition, which started in the 1920s when a student was called upon to suit up for the team due to injuries. Since then, the 12th man has become a vital part of the team's culture and identity, with thousands of students standing throughout every home game to support their team.

Next, we dive into the story of Kyle Field and its evolution over time. The original Kyle Field was built in 1927 with a capacity of just 32,000, but it underwent several expansions and renovations over the years to become the massive stadium it is today. The episode takes us behind the scenes to see the inner workings of the stadium, from the locker rooms to the field itself, and we hear from players and coaches about what makes playing at Kyle Field so special.

Throughout the episode, we also get a sense of the passionate and dedicated fanbase that supports the Aggies. We hear from longtime season ticket holders, student fans, and even former players who have become part of the Kyle Field experience. From the pregame yell practice to the postgame fight song, the episode captures the unique atmosphere of a Texas A&M football game.

Along the way, we learn about some of the key moments in the history of Kyle Field, such as the famous "Junction Boys" era in the 1950s when head coach Bear Bryant put his team through grueling practices in the sweltering heat of Junction, Texas. We also see how the stadium has been used for other events over the years, such as hosting concerts and even serving as a temporary hospital during World War II.

The episode concludes with a look toward the future of Kyle Field and the Texas A&M football program. With a new coach in place and plans for further stadium renovations, the Aggies are poised to continue their tradition of success on the field and passionate support from their fans in the years to come.

Overall, this episode of Fields Of Glory is a fascinating and engaging look at one of college football's most storied programs and the iconic stadium that has been its home for nearly a century. Whether you're a die-hard Aggies fan or just a casual football enthusiast, this episode is sure to entertain and enlighten.