He reasoned that some opponents might be affected by the color , if only via sheer irritation , thus making it worthwhile .
The pink decor dates back to 1979 , when then - Hawkeyes head coach Hayden Fry had it installed to gain a psychological advantage .
Hayden Fry reasoned that some opponents might be affected by the color , if only via sheer irritation , thus making Hawkeyes worthwhile .
The pink decor dates back to 1979 , when then - Hawkeyes head coach Hayden Fry had it installed to gain a psychological advantage .