JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Some Jaguars fans were feeling nostalgic as they tailgated ahead of the first preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Julie Conley wore her inaugural season ticket holder hat while she took in the view of Everbank Stadium from her tailgating spot in the parking lot.
“I just love the football team here, supporting the community and being there," said Conley.
Conley has been there for 30 years, and she has the hat to prove it.
Through the three decades, Conley says her tailgating spot has moved all around the stadium, and she’s expecting another move once construction starts on a new stadium.
“Where is all the season parking going to be? Are we going to have to park so far away? But no matter where we have to park, we’ll still be here," said Conley. "30 years, why stop now, right?”
Conley is soaking it all in now, as the new stadium construction won’t start until after this season, with the expectation it’ll be finished in time for 2028.
She is worried her 30-year season ticket streak will come to an end soon, as the Jaguars are expected to play their 2027 home games in Orlando or Gainesville as crews wrap up construction.
“I don’t know if we can actually drive away for every game, but we’ll see if we can still do it," said Conley.
Some fans had their eyes on the future as a heat advisory was in effect while the Jaguars were warming up for the first preseason game against the Chiefs.
“We’re going to get a little roof," said Joseph Davis. "It’s going to be cool inside. We’re tired of going to games and passing out. We’re tired of going to games, looking at guys, and they’re passing out.”
Conley will keep enjoying her tailgating spot while she has.
However, she knows things have to get a little worse before they get better, after all, she is a Jags fan.
“More lows than highs, but I think this is going to be our year," said Conley.