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Meet the Caniacs: Carolina's tailgating, BBQ-chowing, pig-loving superfans

ESPN · May 21, 2026, 1:10 PM

Key takeaways

  • It is also packed in coolers because out here it is 80 degrees.
  • A large helping of it is packed into the cargo bed of a Ford F-150.
  • "This is the pregame uniform because it's hot out here," explains the gentleman who asks to be identified as Tom Kazansky.

Why this matters: a sports story that could shift standings, legacies, or fan conversations.

It is also packed in coolers because out here it is 80 degrees.

OK, not all of it is packed in coolers. A large helping of it is packed into the cargo bed of a Ford F-150. More accurately, into an inflatable kids swimming pool in the back of a Ford F-150. And packed into the ice that is packed into the pool that is packed into the back of the truck is a rather rotund man in a Carolina Hurricanes swimsuit and tank top who is also packing down a six-pack of a local Belgian style ale called Hell Yes Ma'am.

"This is the pregame uniform because it's hot out here," explains the gentleman who asks to be identified as Tom Kazansky. You know, the Ice Man. "My game uniform is waiting in the truck. Jeans and a Canes jersey, because it's cold inside. Way colder than out here."

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