TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- Membership in The University of Alabama Yell Crew is now open to all UA students, alumni and fans.

Yell Crew is the official student-run spirit organization for Crimson Tide football.

Yell Crew was started in 2001 by UA student Trent Willis with some 40 members. Yell Crew has now grown to more than 500 members. UA student members are eligible to have reserved seating in the student section at all home games near the Million Dollar Band.

This student-operated organization has the goal of making Bryant-Denny Stadium better for fans. Yell Crew members are recognized as the carriers of the giant Alabama flag during UA football games.

Yell Crew students are promoting a “Covered in Crimson” theme for the Oct. 1 Alabama vs. Florida football game, asking all fans to wear crimson to the game to show support for the UA team. Yell Crew members also plan to conduct a food drive this fall to contribute to the annual Beat Auburn-Beat Hunger food collection competition.

Members receive a Yell Crew T-shirt and newsletter. The cost of general membership for students, alumni and fans is $15; students who serve as committee members will pay a higher fee.

For more information or to join, go to www.yellcrew.com or yellcrew@gmail.com.