But, like many trends, it never fully lost its popularity in Wisconsin, and Badgers fans especially know that unique "twists" on the wave can keep it fresh and fun while earning the attention of opposing players and fans. This was also pulled off with impressive skill during the Cleveland/L.A. Angels series at Miller Park.
Frankly, the wave bugs us.
We saw attempts at a Camp Randall-style twist on the traditional wave during a recent Brewers game against Pittsburgh. You could tell some fans were in the know and others not when it came to the special wave combination unique to Wisconsin. It was at this point that we spotted an opportunity to use the power of OnMilwaukee.com to help our fair city "do a better wave."
So, without further adieu, here's how Brewers fans can turn Miller Park into "Camp Randall East" and still pull off the wave while making it cool.
1. Regular Wave -- The fans do a standard wave around the ballpark, the way they do it everywhere else. Boring and old hat, yes, but it's the bread and butter way to get it going. May require several attempts to get it started properly. Watch the Dew Deck or left field bleachers for the most probable "start" area. As a fan, you can choose to not participate. Wait for something more creative.
2. Slow Wave -- After a successful regular wave, the next lap begins with a very slow-motion rendition of the original wave. You can spot it easily: arms that very slowly rise and fall, and suddenly the entire process takes several seconds per section. This is the first variation that's unique, and believe us, opposing players and fans take notice.
3. Fast Wave -- After the "In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida"-like pace of the Slow Wave, when it cycles back to the section of origin, the wave then picks up the pace to ridiculous fever; as in, it takes less than about 45 seconds to go all the way around the stadium. You leap out of your seat to participate in it and somehow, like a true Milwaukeean, manage to not spill a drop.
4. Reverse Wave -- While the Fast Wave is whipping around, you may notice the originating section -- those in the know -- vigorously pointing in the opposite direction. That means, when the Fast Wave reaches that section, it reverses back in the same direction from whence it came. That wave, often a Fast Wave itself, heads in the opposite direction as the original and goes all the way around the stadium.
5. The Double-Reverse Wave -- As the originating section absorbs the Reverse Wave, each section on either side then starts their own, heading in opposite directions. They criss-cross on the opposite side of the field, but as long as everyone keeps their wits about them, it can criss-cross and still make it all the way back around, two waves in opposite directions.
After that, well, spontaneity can kick in. But, hopefully by this point a great Brewers play will divert attention back to the field.
Now go make us proud! And remember, no wave while the Brewers are at bat or while the game is close. Respect the sport first, fulfill your wave fancies second.
