Culture
Vote Tailgate Ted as the Commanders Fan of the Year
September 10, 2025 @ 6:10pm
At DC Fray, community is at the heart of everything we do. It’s all about making fun possible, on and off the field, in leagues, social events, and beyond. That’s why we’re so proud to see one of our own, Tailgate Ted, running for Washington Commanders Fan of the Year. Tailgate Ted isn’t just any die-hard Washington Commanders fan…he’s the heart and soul of the team’s gameday spirit. As Executive Chef of the legendary Hail BBQ tailgate, Ted has been turning FedExField’s parking lot into the most beloved pre-game destination for over two decades.
Click here to vote for Tailgate Ted as Commanders Fan of the Year!
Who is Tailgate Ted?
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Tailgate Ted has been part of our community for over a decade. Back in 2009, when DC Fray was just starting out under the name DC Skee, Ted joined one of our very first skeeball leagues. From day one, he embodied what DC Fray is all about: building connections, sharing laughs, and creating memories that stretch far beyond game night.
- Rooted deeply in fandom, Ted grew up watching the Redskins with his father, who finally snagged season tickets in 2001 and has since not missed a single home game.
- Tailgate Ted has been part of our community for over a decade. Back in 2009, when DC Fray was just starting out under the name DC Skee, Ted joined one of our very first skeeball leagues. From day one, he embodied what DC Fray is all about: building connections, sharing laughs, and creating memories that stretch far beyond game night.
- He started Hail BBQ back in 1999, and every week crafts a unique, delicious menu inspired by the visiting team’s region: think lobster rolls for the Patriots, brisket for Texans, and more.
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Beyond food and being a loyal Fray member, he’s a community cornerstone: media appearances on FOX 5 and NBC Sports Washington, co-host of the “DMV Mess Hall” podcast, and inducted into the Pro Football Ultimate Fan Association in Canton, Ohio.
Why His Tailgate Matters
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Just like DC Fray, Ted’s tailgate is about bringing people together. Hail BBQ is more than just a tailgate. It’s a family reunion. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a curious opponent’s supporter, you’ll be greeted with hospitality, community, and a feast.
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The tailgate isn’t profit-driven. Instead, it runs on goodwill and donations, with proceeds going straight toward that week’s charitable cause: from clothes drives to supporting veterans or local nonprofits.
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Organized, inclusive, and thoughtful: RSVPs open 10 days before each game; tailgate is food-only (BYOB for beverages), and all leftover funds are donated to charity.
Why You Should Vote for Tailgate Ted
Voting for Tailgate Ted as Commanders Fan of the Year is a nod to the incredible community, generosity, and spirit he brings every game day. It’s also about celebrating how Fray members lift each other up. Ted has been part of our story from the beginning, and now it’s our turn to cheer him on. He’s unconditionally dedicated, tirelessly kind, and turns every tailgate into a celebration of what football and fandom should be all about.
Let’s show what the Fray family is made of; support a fellow member, a community builder, and a true Washington fan.