It’s the one place where tailgating seems to really resonate with people.
Garbage haulers from Long Island, who are die-hard New York Jets fans, have turned their mini trucks into elaborate grills to serve up food to the dedicated fans gathering at MetLife Stadium every week.
Sean Winters, a season ticket holder from West Babylon, was at the Jets’ opener on Sunday. He shows up faithfully for every home game, braving the ups and downs of the team’s performance.
“I probably spend around $1,200 to $1,500 on beer, meat, and dessert each Sunday,” Winters shared.
He mentioned catering to about 100 to 120 people while cooking up around 200 pieces of meat in just two hours. Dressed in his fan gear—sports work boots, a T-shirt, and a Rolex—he noted that regardless of the weather, like the rain they faced with Aaron Rogers and the Steelers in town, the menu is rather impressive for a tailgate.
Richie “The Knife” Shire, who has been grilling for nearly 35 years, proudly listed the day’s offerings: marinated filet mignons, rib-eye steaks, marinated chicken, homemade sausages, and both hot and sweet peppers.
A small team of 4-5 dedicated members help ensure that everything runs smoothly, a way to repay Winters for his tickets throughout the season.
Winters has a mobile grill that resembles a jet truck. He described it as weighing about 1,500 pounds and spoke of how everyone enjoys watching it being set up. It’s a source of excitement for those who’ve watched it over the years.
Interestingly, this grill has also been utilized for company barbecues, making it a versatile addition to his game-day routine.
Special Touches
Winters, now 60, has been creating unforgettable tailgate experiences for fans since 2010. His enthusiasm earned him a spot in the Jets Fan Hall of Fame. Every game day, he brings fellow fans from Smithtown to Meadowlands on a green bus decorated with team memorabilia.
His tailgate has captured the attention of Jets owner Woody Johnson as well as team legends like “Broadway Joe” Namath. Winters once asked Johnson if he could take the bus to a Super Bowl parade, revealing just how much he cherishes the connection.
A lifelong Jets fan, he remembers the team’s glory days, particularly during the 1980s. “I love bringing everyone together; it really isn’t just about the football,” he reflected, noting that he even remembers a young fan who’s now grown from accompanying him as a child to becoming a young adult.
Spending between $1,200 and $1,500 at each tailgate, Winters acknowledges that being Jets fans can be tough, especially recently. As a season ticket holder since 1991, he’s seen both highs and lows, from noteworthy seasons to times of disappointing performances.
But despite it all, there’s an undying hope that keeps Winters and other fans optimistic for better days ahead.
“It’s really exciting at the start of this season,” he said, his enthusiasm palpable. “We’re still the best fans out there.”
