HONOLULU -- Fans were excited for the barbecued grinds and to celebrate Warrior Mania.

Gates opened an hour earlier Friday afternoon, allowing Warrior fans time to cram in their own style of pregame warm-ups.

"We have Korean, Japanese and of course, Hawaiian food -- can't go anywhere without the poke," said UH fan Pupule.

It's all about nourishing the body for the long game ahead.

"We got ribs, fried rice, katsu lemon chicken and can't forget the beer," said fan George Uyeno.

Of course there was a lot of hydrating, but safety was a main concern for officials.

Honolulu police said they set up DUI checkpoint to ensure everyone had a safe night. Officers also patrolled the parking lot to make sure no one got too rowdy.

Many tailgaters were out to enjoy their holiday weekend and the start of the 2009 season.

"I'm looking forward to a good season. If they win or lose, I'm still going to party," said fan Marche Kaimimoku.

"I've been a fan for years," said Clyde Miyataki.

The Friday night game wasn't a sellout but it did bring out the lifelong UH diehards.

"My kids were infants when we started so we've coming over 20, 30 years," said Miyataki.

UH fans said they will remain loyal to their team despite the outcome of the game, but many are saying their Hail Marys for a repeat Sugar Bowl season.

"You have to have faith," Pupule said.

Win or lose the fans said they will return for the next home game.