Iowa Hawkeyes Stadium Childrens Hospital

**New Iowa Football Tradition Takes Kinnick Stadium by Storm** Iowa Hawkeyes fans have embraced a heartwarming new tradition at Kinnick Stadium. Starting in 2022, at the end of each first quarter of home games, a wave of over 63,000 fans sweeps through the stands. This unique gesture is directed towards the top floor of the stadium, where members of the University of Iowa's Dance Marathon program, "DanceMaraKids Dance Team," are gathered. These young cancer patients and survivors, along with their families and supporters, are honored with a thunderous ovation from the crowd. The tradition, known as "Wave for the Kids," was inspired by DanceMaraKid Tessa Purcell, who was unable to attend a game due to a hospital stay. As fans waved to her through a video call, the emotional moment sparked an idea. "It was just a beautiful moment," said Jessica Wood, DanceMaraKids Director. "We thought, 'What if we brought this experience to the kids who are there?'" The initiative has become a symbol of the strong bond between the Iowa football team, the university, and the community. Fans have taken to social media to express their appreciation for the tradition and its heartwarming significance. As the Iowa football season kicks off, fans are encouraged to participate in "Wave for the Kids" and show their support for the DanceMaraKids and all those affected by childhood cancer.