A devoted cohort of proud parents and alumni braved Saturday's slurry of rain and snow to celebrate and cheer on Slippery Rock University's football team before the game.

Fortified against the brisk weather with several layers of clothing, optimism, beer and whiskey, fans of The Rock gathered in the school stadium parking lot to drink and celebrate their team's arrival to the Division II semifinal game at Mihalik-Thompson Stadium.

Paul Neugebauer celebrated with dozens of people over drinks under a tent covering. His son, Adam, is working for the first year as the Rock's offensive coordinator.

“He's breaking all kinds of records,” Neugebauer said. “You just meet people being friendly, like Pittsburgh people are.”

Unfortunately, the game ended with Slippery Rock losing to Minnesota State 58-15.

This is an excerpt of a story appearing in Monday's Butler Eagle.