By Ashlea Hellmann
The University of Louisville men’s basketball team defeated Rutgers University 87-50 Saturday. That wasn’t the only reason Freedom Hall was rocking.
Saturday was also dubbed the ’80s game and was chance for the students to show their spirit in a unique way. Many students chose to participate in the event by dressing up and carrying signs with ’80s slogans
“We wanted the chance to have a unified student group,” freshman mechanical engineering major Scott Beard said.
Beard was one of around 60 L-Raisers who showed up in their ’80s gear.
The event was promoted by the university, but got the most exposure over the Internet, via L-Raisers Listserv and a group on Facebook. The group, which was created by the L-Raisers, had 270 confirmed guests.
The Greeks also had a strong showing in the stands. The ’80s theme was an idea originated from the party that followed Saturday, hosted by Sigma Chi fraternity.
“Some people didn’t get the memo but the Greeks did a good job embracing the idea,” senior psychology major Larissa Helmer said.
The game was geared towards the ’80s with an ’80s Cardinal Bird, decade themed music and a Thriller dance-off during the Texas Two-Step.
“Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. I think the crowd as a whole was really behind the theme,” said freshman Spanish major Megan Reeves.
Many students felt as though the university didn’t do enough to promote the event.
“They’ve done the small things but not enough to make the theme effective,” Helmer said.
Other students agreed, saying they felt the game could have been better advertised.
“They could have targeted all the fans and [the players] could have worn their throw back jerseys,” said senior sociology major Amanda James.
Many of the sportscasters took notice of what the student’s clothing as well. ESPN continually mentioned the theme and the students clothing.
While this year’s event was considered successful by many, other students are hoping to see the game become a tradition, and an even bigger event next year.
