The Ball State University Alumni Association held its pre-game rally at the Alumni Center before Thursday's football game, attracting prominent people, such as the NCAA President, but few students.
Ed Shipley, executive director of alumni programs, said the rally, which was attended mostly by Ball State alumni, was an hour before the game at the Alumni Center because it was a short walk away from Scheumann Stadium.
Students rarely come to the event, which the Alumni Association has hosted for many years, Shipley said.
Hundreds of alumni were in attendance.
"We always expect a full room," Shipley said. "People come in and out as they get ready for the game."
NCAA President Myles Brand also made an appearance at the rally.
Brand said he was visiting Ball State to attend the game.
"[The alumni support] is very good; It's very appropriate for a MAC-sized school," he said.
Shipley said students were more than welcome to attend the event, but he thought they had few motives.
"Why would students want to come pay for food when they could get it [in the dining halls] for free?" Shipley said.
While anyone can attend the event, they must purchase a meal ticket three days in advance of the game, at a price of $15, Shipley said.
The ticket was to eat on the buffet, which included fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, hotdogs, hamburgers and beverages.
People not interested in the buffet were offered free popcorn and ice cream and a cash bar serving alcohol in the main lobby.
Free Ball State buttons, mints, balloons and paint-on tattoos were also offered.
Shipley said the event will continue throughout the year before all home games, and that students are always invited.
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