The tradition of family and alumni returning

for Homecoming has a special meaning this year for the Wooster

family. The Wooster family, of Omaha, Neb., will have all their

family members present for the ISU Homecoming game for the first

time in more than 10 years. 

Larry graduated from Iowa State in 1982 with a

degree in finance. He was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha,

Interfraternity Council, Greek Week and a Cyclone recruiter.

His wife, Beth, graduated with a degree in

speech communication in 1984. She was a member of Delta Delta

Delta, Veishea committee, Collegiate Panhellenic Council and

Interfraternity Council.

Their children Katie, senior in apparel

merchandising; Laura, senior in food science; and Michael, freshman

in pre-business, are continuing the tradition of Cyclones in the

Wooster family. Laura and Katie are members of Chi Omega. Mike

followed his father’s footsteps and joined Pi Kappa Alpha.

“We have had so many great memories and

tremendous times. It’s really fun to be able to share that with all

of our family,” Larry said.

Larry and Beth have been there every step of

the way to support their children in their college career, whether

it was cheering on Laura at an ISU soccer game or going to

orientation for the third time.

“Our dad could give the orientation tours,”

Katie said. 

The Wooster parents set up a tent in lot C4

commonly referred to as “Larry’s tailgate” each home game. Larry’s

tailgate is fully equipped with Cyclone coolers, napkins, chairs,

plates and even cozies that say “Larry’s

Tailgate.” 

“It is a celebration of everything great about

Iowa State,” Larry said. 

Larry’s tailgate welcomes all friends of their

kids.

“I am privileged that I have gotten to know

them this year so far,” said Alex Koth, external vice president for

Pi Kappa Alpha. “I am looking forward to hanging out with them for

many future games.”

Beth said she enjoys getting to see her kids

and their friends at all the home football games, as well as

running into old friends from college.

“It brings back memories of when you were in

college. I remember my own parents coming to tailgate,” Beth

said.

The kids said they enjoy the gathering,

too.

“It brings us all a lot closer,” Laura said.

“This is the first time that all of us have actually all been

together here. It has been an interesting experience to say the

least.”

The Wooster’s loves for the Cyclones extends

beyond game day. The basement walls in their house are filled with

old-school Iowa State football pictures. And even though they live

across the Missouri River, a Cyclone flag is proudly flown in their

front yard.

“Homecoming is exciting because you see alumni

walking around. The events and homecoming displays make it

special,” Beth said.