By Brett Jager
At this point in my life, there is nothing more thrilling than attending a University of Louisville basketball game.
There is one small problem: the location of the student section.
I know several schools’ student sections are behind one of the baskets, but in such a large arena as Freedom Hall, the student section is isolated and it affects their performance.
I envy the “Cameron Crazies.” Every time I see a Duke home game on television, I am jealous of the rowdiness in which the fans partake. Even two of our bitter rivals, Georgetown and Kentucky, have much better student sections than U of L.
The student section at basketball games should be more organized and moved to mid-court rather than behind the basket in order for it to be effective.
One of the best parts of high school was the intensity of our cheering section, and I had hoped the same intensity would carry over to U of L games.
It all starts with organization.
The invention of the new student section affectionately known as “The Nest” leads me to believe that steps are being taken to improve the situation with student spirit.
I am tired of hearing the same two cheers at every game: the generic defense cheer, as well as the C-A-R-D-S cheer. More creative cheers need to be invented in order for the student section to be more interactive with the game.
Moving the section will allow the students to be closer to the action, and to be able to range the entire court, not just one side. It would be nice for these changes to take affect when the new arena is built.
Whether I am still at this school or not, seeing a rowdy U of L student section on the side of the court will bring a smile to my face.
