Some things never get old, and for the veterans of Kansas State football, the season opener is one of those timeless traditions that remains perpetually exciting. Every year, as summer fades and the anticipation of autumn’s crisp air sets in, these seasoned Wildcats eagerly anticipate the moment they first step onto the field of Bill Snyder Family Football Stadium. This year’s opener, which will see the Wildcats face off against Tennessee-Martin, marks a particularly special occasion for several of the team’s stalwarts.

Brendan Mott, a super-senior defensive end, embodies the spirit of Kansas State’s experienced players. Mott’s journey began with a redshirt year in 2019, and he is now preparing for his sixth season opener. The excitement that he feels each year is a testament to the enduring passion and commitment that define his career. “To go out there and be in front of the Kansas State fans is something that we’ve looked forward to this whole offseason of training,” Mott shared. “For that to be this close gets me fired up.” His words reflect a sentiment shared by many in the football program—a deep and unwavering connection to the tradition and energy that accompanies the start of the season.

Mott’s enthusiasm is not an isolated case. Linebacker Austin Moore, another sixth-year senior who benefited from the extra season granted during the 2020 pandemic, also finds that the thrill of the season opener remains as potent as ever. Moore’s excitement extends beyond the actual game day; even during the mock game held the previous Friday, he found himself energized by the pregame atmosphere. “I still get a bunch of juice from that,” Moore said. “Even though there was no one there, just hearing the music that’s going to be played and going through the routine and all that. So, it still definitely gets me super excited.”

The excitement isn’t confined to just the players. Head coach Chris Klieman, now in his sixth season at Kansas State, has come to appreciate the college football experience on a deeper level with each passing year. As the season opener approaches, Klieman’s thoughts momentarily shift to Salina, where his son Colby is also starting his football season at Kansas Wesleyan. Yet, his focus quickly returns to the Wildcat’s game day experience. “They play at night, too, so that’s the first thing is how’s he doing,” Klieman said. “But then I just take it all in, and I probably do a better job of that now than I did in year one, where I didn’t know what was happening.”

Klieman’s appreciation extends to the pageantry that makes college football so unique. He highlighted the Pride of Wildcat Land marching band, the students who eagerly fill their section an hour before kickoff, and the team’s dramatic arrival at the stadium, walking through a throng of cheering fans. “It’s awesome,” Klieman said, capturing the essence of the game day experience from a coach’s perspective.

Senior safety Marques Sigle, who transferred to Kansas State from North Dakota State last year, missed the season opener due to suspension. As a result, his anticipation for this year’s opener is particularly poignant. “Last year I was mad that I wasn’t out there with my guys,” Sigle admitted. “I’ve been dreaming of it every night. I said out there, I might cry because going into my last year I just want to take it all in, just because I’ve been blessed.” Sigle’s fervor is amplified by his role as a team captain and the opportunity to fully engage in what promises to be a memorable season.

Carver Willis, a senior offensive tackle, also reflects on his deep connection to the team and the game. “This one’s pretty special to me,” Willis said. “Honestly, because I never thought I’d be here. I never thought I’d take a year five, but I couldn’t walk away from this place.” His commitment to the team, his appreciation for his teammates, and his love for the game shine through in his words. Willis’s decision to continue playing, despite the challenges, speaks to his passion and dedication.

As the season opener approaches, Klieman and his team are ready to embrace the pageantry and excitement that characterize Kansas State football. “It’s just the pageantry of college football,” Klieman said. “That’s what college football is all about.” This sentiment is echoed by the players and coaches alike, as they prepare for the game day experience that has become a cherished tradition.

The season opener is more than just a game; it is a celebration of the hard work and dedication that the players and coaches have invested throughout the offseason. It is a moment to relish the camaraderie of the team, the enthusiasm of the fans, and the joy of playing the sport they love. For the veterans of Kansas State football, this annual event represents a culmination of their efforts and a new chapter in their football journey.

However, the excitement surrounding the season opener is a reflection of the enduring spirit of college football. It is a time when past achievements are honored, and new possibilities are embraced. As the Wildcats take the field against Tennessee-Martin, they do so with a sense of pride, anticipation, and a deep appreciation for the traditions that make college football so special. For these seasoned veterans, some things never get old, and the thrill of the season opener remains as vibrant as ever.