The Carnegie Clan, an organization which primarily celebrates and promotes athletic events on campus, lit a large bonfire in Donner Ditch on the evening of Wednesday, November 15, to celebrate the Carnegie Mellon football team's undefeated regular season record. At 10 wins and no losses, this year's Tartans are in the playoffs for the first time since 1990. The event was also a pep rally for the football team's first playoff game, which takes place tomorrow, Saturday, November 18, against the Millsaps College Majors.

The bonfire drew a small crowd to huddle in the rain and cold around its 15 foot flames.  The fire burned for about 45 minutes, and consumed at least a dozen wooden cargo pallets. HSS first-year Nathan Frank, the event's announcer from The Carnegie Clan, provided entertaining commentary and introduced some of the people who showed up to join in celebration and cheer. Two bagpipers began the pep rally in traditional Carnegie Mellon style with a short chorus of bagpipe music. Some members of the Carnegie Mellon Kiltie Band came in full uniform to chant their unique and inspiring cheers. Cheerleaders also made an appearance to wish their best for the team. Lastly, about a dozen members of the football team itself joined in celebration. 

"We appreciate the fan support and the Kiltie Band," said CIT senior Drew Serty, a member of the football team.

The football players were given a chance to speak in front of the crowd. CIT senior Rory Kaclik expressed enthusiasm about the playoff season.

"We put a lot into this program," Kaclik said. When asked about their plans for Saturday, he exclaimed to the crowd that they would give their opponents, "a major… whooping."  

His teammates showed equal optimism concerning their upcoming game. CIT senior James Rogers, a team captain who plays side linebacker, said he was "very excited" and that he "can't ask for much more" from the season. He attributed this season's success to the players' commitment to the team and the school's commitment to the program. He mentioned that new athletic facilities did much to improve the ability of the football organization.

Rogers showed poise and focus when asked about the game against Millsaps. As a defensive player, he mentioned how Millsaps is expected to have a strong throwing game, but he seemed confident in the Tartans' ability to combat them. When asked about the rest of the season, Rogers said, "I'm not looking past [the Millsaps game]." With discipline, he said he will approach each game one at a time.

The bonfire was a special event for The Carnegie Clan to demonstrate support for the football team. 

"We try to make the campus fun," said Frank.

Seeing the fans that showed up for the bonfire, The Carnegie Clan seems to be doing its job well. The Tartans play the Millsaps Majors on Saturday, November 18 at noon at Gesling Stadium. Tickets are $8 for adults and $4 for students. 

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