California memories

On Dec. 30, a mass of Badger fans celebrated during the Party at the Pier, a pep rally event held at the Santa Monica Pier, California, in advance of the Rose Bowl. The Badgers returned to the Rose Bowl Jan. 1, playing the TCU Horned Frogs. Although the Badgers lost, 21-19, thousands of fans — students, parents, alumni, employees and more — supported the team throughout its successful season.

After an 11-1 regular season, it’s not easy to walk away from the legendary stadium bruised by a loss. Jon and Julie Grutzner, of Verona, said their experience in southern California was terrific.

“This season has been magical,” said Jon Grutzner. “It’s a great way to celebrate. We had such a good time. We’d still come out and wouldn’t regret a moment.”

Following the Rose Bowl, junior defensive end J.J. Watt and tailback John Clay announced their decision to forgo their final season and enter the NFL draft.

Numerous photos from the Rose Bowl and from the university overall are available for purchase at Replay Photos. View the university’s collection of Rose Bowl photos.