Student body helps competition

The crowd is roaring, sweat's dripping, clock is running; the game is on the line. Talk to any athlete and these are the moments they live for.

Whether it comes down to a tear jerker or a glorious win, any competitor is relishing
the moment. It is the job of the student body to help make those moments special.

Moments in the past like Blackout night, Student appreciation night and homecomings
have assured great games. It isn't a mere coincidence that view attendance is highest on these nights. Players and coaches alike feed of the liveliness of the crowd. Many times, contestants want the win for something bigger than themselves.

This year whether it is the cross country course, People's Bank stands, ball diamonds or Wilson Field House, Ottawa University students should strive to fill the stands. The people we ask you to support are your neighbors, schoolmates and friends.

College athletics are a small part of life later, but a major one to current student-
athletes. Most participants thrive off the energy of a crowd and when the crowd is large, the game is sure to be a people pleaser.

With support on the road, teams gain an advantage they would not have normally had. Caravanning to games shouldn't be limited to championships or semi-finals, athletes need support season round.

With a large number of student-athletes, those in the off season should be the biggest supporters of their in season counter parts. The support of one team for another builds a camaraderie within the entire university. That said the spectatorship isn't limited to athletes. Games are enormous social events on a small campus - not to mention the prizes that can be earned with attendance at many games!

Even intramurals, or class organized sporting events can use a fan base. These sports are designed for the campus to have fun, and I was always taught that that's what athletics is all about.

This year, I encourage you to come out and support as many teams as you can; smile with the wins, cry with the losses, become a fan of athletics and a member
of team OU.