No matter which team you're rooting for, we can all agree on one thing—that everyday heroes in our communities deserve to be applauded and celebrated.
Saturday, November 19, marks the 121st time the Montana Grizzlies and Montana State Bobcats are set to meet. The 2022 Brawl of the Wild, a football matchup featuring one of the best rivalries in all college athletics, gets some extra star power this year as MSU's Dyche Field plays host to ESPN's College GameDay pregame show.
But come the third quarter, the spotlight will shift to First Interstate Bank's Community Hero when we recognize a special fan whose good deeds and positive energy make our community a better place to live, work, and raise a family.
What is a Community Hero?
First Interstate Bank is a signature sponsor of the University of Montana (UM) and Montana State University (MSU). We have long valued education and community engagement and know through experience that a "go-above-and-beyond attitude" can have a big impact.
That's why we partnered with MSU, UM, Oregon State, and the University of Oregon to shine a light on all the positive things everyday heroes were doing in our communities. The Community Hero Program was born.
Teachers, coaches, volunteers, first responders, moms, dads, and caregivers have all been recognized as Community Heroes. These individuals typically skirt the spotlight and don't seek out recognition. But the 2022 Brawl of the Wild allows us to celebrate a special someone by gifting them tickets to the game and a prize pack from the host team -- our way of saying "thanks" for being a hero.
The Brawl of the Wild Community Hero will be announced during the first commercial break of the third quarter, or follow us on Facebook for full coverage.
Get your paws on a super-fan must-have.
Ardent fans campaigned on social media to bring ESPN's College GameDay to the Treasure State. Entering its 36th season, the show travels to a different college campus or game site each week from early September through the College Football Playoff National Championship in January. The locations -- usually announced a week in advance -- are chosen by ESPN based on competitive matchups, rivalries, and other factors.
And when it comes to rivalries, few are more passionate than the Cats vs. Griz. Armed with foam fingers and stocking caps in team colors – frigid temperatures are on the roster this weekend – fans will also flash their BobcatTM Banking and GrizTM Banking cards. Cardholders take advantage of special perks like on-field access, invites to exclusive events, and discounts on gear just for being members.
Regardless of who you're rooting for, it's guaranteed to be a great game. ESPN's College GameDay will be live from Bozeman, Montana, at MSU's Dyche Field from 7–10 a.m. Gates open for the show at 5 a.m., and space is first-come, first-serve. The Brawl of the Wild begins at noon.