While the San Francisco 49ers' tight end George Kittle commands attention on the gridiron, his wife Claire Kittle has masterfully crafted a game day experience that resonates deeply with fans. This tradition, built on meticulous planning and a genuine love for bringing people together, has become an integral, though often unseen, part of the 49ers' Sunday culture.
More Than Just a Game: Crafting the Perfect Sunday Atmosphere
For Claire Kittle, an NFL Sunday is not defined by a single kickoff. She views it as a layered, all-day narrative shaped by people, preparation, and the right atmosphere. She partners with Smirnoff as part of their "We Do Game Days" campaign this season, a collaboration that feels perfectly natural given her approach. As she explained to PEOPLE magazine, the essence of the day extends far beyond the field. "Game days are so much more than just the game: it's about 'fits, who's in town, who traveled here," she said. These social details are crucial in setting the day's emotional tone long before the first play.
Claire emphasizes that the celebration is a continuous journey. "We do so many fun things pre-game, at the game, post-game ... Smirnoff has always been that and it's at the center of all of those things," she noted. This philosophy transforms a simple sporting event into a shared, memorable experience for everyone in her circle.
The Early Start: A Ritual of Precision and Timing
One aspect that often surprises newcomers is the rigorous schedule Claire maintains. The day begins much earlier than most fans would anticipate. "The timing of the day" is what stands out most, particularly "how early we leave the house and drive to the stadium," Claire revealed. Her commitment is such that her group arrives at Levi’s Stadium a full two hours before kickoff.
This disciplined early arrival is not by chance; it's a strategic move. It allows Claire to manage the long stretch of energy required to host friends and family throughout the entire day, ensuring the experience is seamless and enjoyable for all.
Leading from the Suite: Music, Mood, and Community
Inside the suite at Levi’s Stadium, Claire’s leadership style is subtle yet effective. She creates an environment where others can thrive. "I feel like we have a lot of life-of-the-parties in our group, and it could be anybody on any given Sunday," she shared. This approach of empowering others keeps the mood light and celebratory, even during tense moments in the game.
Music plays a pivotal role in setting the emotional pace. Claire credits her brother, Riley Till, with this vital responsibility. "It's a very vital role when we're on the bus and we're going to the game," she told PEOPLE. "He's got to know what to play, when to play it and for how long, so that always sets the tone as well." In these carefully curated details—the music, the timing, the welcome—Claire Kittle proves that the true magic of game day often unfolds far from the end zone, in the shared moments of anticipation and camaraderie.
