The Observer, November 9, 2007
Volume XL, Issue 10
Editorial: Unite in support for team, university
We've got no spirit, how about you?
Let's face it: Case Western Reserve University is seldom noted for its athletic accomplishments. We're more likely to be known for our academic endeavors and research breakthroughs.
Until now. For the first time ever, Case's football team has claimed an outright University Athletic Association championship. They are nationally ranked at No. 18 in the American Football Coaches Association Division III Coaches' Poll with an undefeated record of 9-0.
Men's soccer made it to the semifinals of the NCAA tournament last season. While they didn't do as well this year, they were still nationally ranked in the top 10 virtually all season.
Last year, the women's cross country team placed 10th at the NCAA Division III Championships. Currently, both women's and men's cross country are nationally ranked, at No. 7 and No. 29, respectively.
But how many of us actually go to football games, soccer games, or cross country meets to cheer on our teams? Granted, cross country meets take place off campus, but home football games and soccer games take place right in the backyard of the majority of campus residents. We really don't have an excuse.
School spirit seemed easy to come by in high school, but for some reason hasn't translated well to our college years. Even those who are heavily involved and enthusiastic about Case tend not to make a special effort to attend games. It's much more common to see someone supporting Ohio State than to see someone supporting Case.
Last Saturday's football game against Washington University was attended by more people than usual – about 2392 people showed up, according to the box score. Home games against Denison University and the College of Wooster were played at night and about 1750 people attended each. The afternoon game against Saint Vincent College had an audience of just 350.
Even though more people showed up last weekend, not many were Case students. Some of those who did attend reported getting heckled by Wash U. fans.
Case students need something to rally behind. It's easy to get swept up in a life of studying and homework, which soon gives way to feelings of extreme dislike for this university. We need to band together in support for our team and our school. Be proud of Case and of yourself for choosing a challenging education.
Tomorrow at 1 p.m. is the last regular season game for Case football. If they manage to take down Ohio Wesleyan, maintaining a perfect record of 10-0, they'll advance to the NCAA playoffs.
Get out there and cheer for your team and your university. Go Spartans!
