Making friends in the Big Ten
By Emily Halnon, freelance writer, and Shannon Rose-Peterson, UOAA Director of Alumni Initiatives
Learn how you can travel with us to select away games, find out the best things to do in Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin, and hear from alumni living in or from those rival Big Ten states.
There’s a lot that will remain unchanged about Ducks football this fall. We’ll still fill stadiums with roaring seas of green and yellow, Saturdays will always be our favorite day of the week, and it will never rain at Autzen.
But one big and exciting difference for the upcoming season is that the Ducks will face off against a brand-new roster of opponents this year, thanks to University of Oregon’s shift to the Big Ten conference.
This move isn’t just thrilling because we’ll get to watch the Ducks take on legendary teams in one of the most-watched football conferences in the country. Joining the Big Ten is a transformational opportunity for UO athletics and academics. While the UO will join the Big Ten on the field, it will also become a member of its Academic Alliance, which will open doors to incredible opportunities, resources, and partnerships for our students and faculty as we collaborate with seventeen new peer institutions. Though, it won’t be the first time UO scientists have teamed up with Big Ten schools. UO-Big Ten research teams have been making groundbreaking discoveries, such as in how babies breathe, kids learn, and smokers kick the habit.
Joining the Big Ten also means there will be lots of exciting new ways for the UO to connect with the thousands of alumni living in the Midwest—and for you all to connect with each other. We can’t wait to spread our green and yellow pride in new corners of the country alongside you.
To celebrate this transition, we’re diving into Big Ten territory so you can get to know the places and people that will host the Ducks this fall. We hope you’ll consider joining us, or at least tune in while the Ducks make their Big Ten debut!
Crash course in Big Ten territory—The away game edition
Whether or not you’re planning on joining the football team in the Midwest this fall, we want to help you get to know our new neighbors in the Big Ten, especially the ones who will be hosting a flock of Ducks fans this football season at away games in Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin.
Each of these respective regions have their own must-see scenery, unique football culture, charming local vernacular, and tasty eateries. We’re here to give you the Big Ten Away Game 101 so you know what the Ducks are in for—and what not to miss if you make the trip to watch the Ducks in-person.
University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, Michigan
Many Michiganders will tell you the Wolverine state is one of the most underrated regions in the nation thanks to its rich history and culture, stunning outdoor scene, and enthusiastic sports fans.
If you love Oregon’s natural beauty, there’s a good chance you’ll also be wowed by Michigan’s landscape, which includes the Great Lakes, the forested wetlands of the Upper Peninsula, flashy fall foliage, and majestic moose meandering through it all.
Ann Arbor itself is a college town known for its gorgeous campus, fun local gems, and a happening downtown corridor. If you are heading to Michigan between November 1 and 3, don’t miss:
Adventurous attractions:
- Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village – An expansive indoor and outdoor museum space that includes tours of Thomas Edison’s laboratory, the Wright brother’s airplane workshop, and a Rosa Parks exhibit, at which visitors can board the bus where Parks defied segregation laws in 1955.
- Detroit Institute of Art – Named Best Art Museum in the US by USA Today readers for the second year in a row, the DIA is a must-see destination for anyone visiting this area.
- Motown Museum – The beating heart of Motown offers the chance to see where some of the greatest songs of all time were recorded.
- The University of Michigan campus – We know you bleed green and yellow, but the University of Michigan campus is worth touring. Stop by the Michigan Union, head over to the spinning cube, stroll the Law Quad, and finish by ambling down to the “Diag” with a stop in front of the library to see the big ‘M’.
Tasty bites:
- Zingerman’s Deli – Zingerman’s is an Ann Arbor institution, where you can find amazing sandwiches and the best selection of meats, cheeses, and chocolates in town.
- You can’t go wrong with brunch at Avalon Café and Kitchen, Anna's House, or, for a black-tie option, Gandy Dancer.
- Coney Island dogs, served with meat chili, diced onions, and mustard, are a beloved part of the culinary scene in Detroit. But you should be able to find a coney dog on the menu at nearly every diner in Michigan.
Michigan speak:
- Order a “pop”, not a “soda” or “Coke”.
- Head to the “party store” (aka convenience store) to stock up on chips, ice, and all your pregame needs.
- Have a few extra days to hang out in Michigan? Head “up north” (that’s northern Michigan) to take in the fall foliage.
Travel tip: Public transportation is not where Michigan shines. Rent a car to make your weekend travel easier. As an added perk for UOAA members: your membership allows you access to an online travel portal for rental car discounts. Not a member yet? Register online today to access these exclusive travel discounts and more!
University of Wisconsin – Madison, Wisconsin
The Ducks are heading to Madison from November 15–17 to pair up against the Wisconsin Badgers for their first match-up since the 2020 Rose Bowl. Wisconsin is not known for balmy temperatures in deep fall, so pack your favorite sweater weather clothes and be prepared for the state’s famous midwestern hospitality to keep you warm as we cheer the Ducks to another victory!
Madison itself is a great state capitol, known for its walkability, bike trails, and beautiful scenery along Lake Mendota and Lake Monona. And if you like lakes, Madison is an easy drive from both Chicago and Milwaukee, where you can take in the beauty of the spectacular Lake Michigan. Don’t miss:
Adventurous attractions:
- The Capitol building – It’s hard to miss the Capitol building since it serves as the hub for the entire downtown and is a core part of the Madison experience. Grab a free tour, offered daily.
- State Street – After your tour of the capitol, bundle up and take a stroll down State Street, a pedestrian mall that runs from Capitol Square all the way to the University of Wisconsin–Madison Campus. Stop by the Overture Center for the Arts, grab a bite at State Street Brats, and peruse the lovely boutiques along the way.
- Memorial Union Terrace – Once you make your way to Wisconsin’s campus, head over to the Memorial Union Terrace for some of the most stunning lake views in all of Madison.
- Babcock Dairy Store – What trip to Wisconsin would be complete without a visit to one of the nation’s first dairies? Be sure to try the orange custard chocolate chip ice cream.
Tasty bites:
- Friday fish fry – Fridays in Wisconsin are all about fish fry. Across the state, Wisconsinites head to their local supper club, dive bar, church basement, VFW hall, or bowling alley for this weekly dinner event. For a more upscale fish fry experience, head to Kavanaugh’s Esquire Club and order the Lake Perch special.
- For a game day brunch, check out Monty’s Blue Plate Diner for a 50s-style diner experience, Basset Street Brunch Club for homemade donuts, or Mickey’s Tavern for a low-key and wonderful meal.
- Head to the Edgewater Hotel for a delicious dinner with lakeside views at The Boathouse, or, if breweries are more your speed, the New Glarus Brewing Company (home of the famous Spotted Cow) is a forty-minute drive south of the city.
Wisconsin speak:
- Ope: Polite noise made by Midwesterners to react to someone in their way. Often accompanied with “lemme just squeeze past ya there.”
- No, yeah: Yeah. (It’s hard for Wisconsinites to commit. They’re worried they might offend).
- Yeah, no: No. (See above).
- Bubbler: The Wisconsinite word for a drinking fountain.
Purdue – West Lafayette, Indiana
Indiana is a state known for its rich sports history and proud athletic culture. But the Hoosier state also has some hidden gems worth checking out if you’re making the trek to Indiana.
Before you go: Be sure to watch (or, more likely, rewatch) Hoosiers or Breaking Away, both quintessential films about Indiana sports. Indianans love a good sports story and cheering for the underdog. These flicks capture the beautiful Indiana scenery and the state’s heartwarming rural charm. Don’t miss:
Adventurous attractions:
- Float the White River – We hear touring Indiana by water is definitely all it’s quacked up to be.
- Visit the Indiana Dunes National Park – The wind and waves of Lake Michigan left a dramatic trail of sand dunes along the Indiana coastline. Head to the park to check out its 15,000 acres of natural beauty.
- Tour the University of Notre Dame campus – Everyone can appreciate the rich history and spectacular architecture that Notre Dame is known for.
Tasty bites:
- Triple XXX Family Restaurant – As seen on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives, the Triple XXX is known for its burgers, fries, shakes, and root beer. Add peanut butter to your burger to get the full eXXXperience.
Indiana speak:
- Hoosier: It’s not just a great sports film. It’s also the term for any resident of Indiana.
- Indiana Time: Most of Indiana is on Eastern Time (including West Lafayette), but there are twelve counties in northwest and southwest Indiana that are in the Central Time Zone. Make sure you get Indiana Time right before kickoff!
- Bibbity Bobbity: A phrase to describe something that was accomplished quickly. Like, "the Ducks took the lead bibbity bobbity and then ran away with the win."
Check out the UOAA’s Alumni Travel Guide for more tips on getting around and getting to know Michigan, Wisconsin, and Indiana.
Midwest Ducks
Alexis Han, BS ’22 (international studies)
Continuous Improvement Unit Analyst, Michigan Department of Education
Just moved from: Lansing, Michigan
Her path to Michigan: Alexis Han was born, raised, and educated in Oregon but decided she should branch out after graduation. She wanted to go into public service and ended up matching with a government job in Michigan. Han spent two years getting to know life inside the Mitten state while working for the Department of Education—and was surprised at how quickly it felt just like home.
“The Midwest shares a lot with Oregon,” she says.
It wasn’t quite similar enough, however. Han found distance made her heart grow even fonder for her home state, so she moved back to the Pacific Northwest this summer.
Go-to way to show Ducks pride in the Midwest: Han wore a ton of Ducks gear around Michigan.
“I found I had even more Ducks pride while I was away from Oregon,” she said.
She also kept her car registered in the state of Oregon and slapped a UO license plate frame on her vehicle—a great conversation starter, Han says.
Her favorite thing about Michigan: “I appreciate how much everyone in Michigan loves Michigan,” says Han.
When she first moved there, she couldn’t believe how many Michiganders didn’t even want to leave the state for vacations. But as Han got to know the area, she started to understand. Like the locals, she became especially fond of the lakes and easy access to the outdoors.
If you go: Han recommends checking out the nature (especially the beaches up north), the produce (shout-out to the apples and cherries), and Detroit city.
“There’s lots of great culture, amazing food, and incredible history,” she says.
Be prepared to encounter: Extremely passionate football fans.
Elizabeth Triplett, BA ’14 (accounting)
Senior Manager, Vesta
Currently lives in: Madison, Wisconsin
Her path to Wisconsin: Triplett is no stranger to the Big Ten. She grew up in Iowa City and wanted to return to the Midwest after living in the Bay Area for eight years—ideally, to a college town that was close to her Iowa-based family. Madison checked all the right boxes and Triplett is thrilled to be back in Big Ten land.
“I just love the environment of a college town,” she says.
What she loves about Madison: “It’s actually really similar to Eugene in some great ways,” Han says.
She loves that Madison’s an outdoorsy and active city with a robust network of biking trails and a thriving community of runners. Triplett adds that the sports culture is phenomenal—especially for fans of basketball, football, and volleyball—and says the students and college make Madison an extra fun and lively place to live.
If you go: Check out the farmer’s market in Madison.
Most exciting thing about UO joining the Big Ten: “I grew up watching college football in Iowa and have always associated UO with the Pac-12. It’s going to be awesome to get to see them play in the Midwest,” Triplett says.
Go-to way to show Ducks pride: Wearing Ducks gear while traveling is a great way to hear a friendly “Go Ducks” in an airport terminal. Sporting a Ducks license plate frame is another conversation-starter.
Be prepared: To walk a significant distance to get to the stadium. The fight for parking might be almost as competitive as the football game later that day.
“It doesn’t matter how cold it might get,” says Triplett, “There's a lot of people who live and breathe sports in Madison and there’s no doubt a lot of Wisconsin fans will show up for this game.”
Christian Montgomery, BS ’10 (business administration)
Director of Marketing, ABI Attachments
Currently lives in: South Bend, Indiana
Path to Indiana: After more than a decade working as a product and brand strategist for Nike and Adidas, Montgomery decided he wanted to develop new career skills. He applied to the MBA program at Notre Dame, got in (with a full ride, to boot), and made the move to Indiana. He’s since graduated, but stayed planted in South Bend, where he’s now the director of marketing for an agricultural equipment company. Montgomery’s become a big fan of Indiana and loves being within driving distance of so many fun Midwest cities.
What he loves about Indiana: “Indiana loves sports,” he says. “Indiana also definitely has some similarities to Oregon that made it easy to feel right at home.”
Montgomery is especially appreciative of the people he’s met in Indiana, who are kind and hospitable.
If you go: Don’t miss Purdue’s marching band.
“The band has the biggest drum in the world,” Montgomery says. “They couldn’t even fit it through the tunnel at Notre Dame when we played them last year.”
Most exciting thing about the move to the Big Ten: “I'm really excited to see innovation beat up on tradition,” Montgomery says. “A lot of the Big Ten teams have an old-school mindset and the Ducks like to think outside the box and make big waves.”
Go-to way to show Ducks pride: The license plate frame gets the ‘W’ for favorite Ducks gear in the Midwest as Montgomery rounds out this trio of alums with a Ducks plate.
“I’m also a big sneaker head and have a lot of green and yellow custom shoes,” he adds.
Why you should go to an away game: It’s been years since Montgomery has made his way back to Autzen, but that doesn’t mean he stopped watching Ducks football from stadium seats. He’s road-tripped all over the country to watch the Ducks compete and especially loves away games.
“I love away games because you get to see all the diehard fans, you get to learn about a different school and their football culture, and it's so satisfying to walk out of the stadium after a big win in someone else's house,” Montgomery says.
Montgomery recommends going to an away game and soaking up the traditions, school spirit, mascots, sayings, and stories.
“College football is full of good stories and fun traditions—and every school is different,” he says.
Travel with the Ducks
If you want to check out the new Big Ten spots for yourself and cheer for the Ducks alongside other enthusiastic alumni this fall, we’re partnering with Ducks Fan Travel to offer travel packages to Michigan and Wisconsin for the big games. All you need to do is book your flight and buy your tickets to the games. Each package takes care of premium alumni hotel accommodations, gameday transportation, exclusive souvenirs, the unforgettable Mighty Oregon Tailgate, and more.
And if you can’t travel to a game, attend a watch party to root for the Ducks with fellow alumni in your neighborhood.
Connect with other alumni and the UOAA
The UO Alumni Association has chapters all over the world that can connect you with a vast network of Ducks. Check out our full list of chapters to find other alumni in your area—along with fun social activities, rewarding philanthropic events, and professional development opportunities.