Written by Crowds. Tailgates. Never-ending amounts of people waiting behind stadium doors. Ready for a day of chants, screams, scoffs, grunts, and tears (sadness or joy). College sports contain everlasting emotions, generational pride, a drive to win, and a hunger not to lose. These sports never fail to unleash the competitive spirit in each soul, echoing across the arena. What is truly fascinating about these sports is their culture. It’s how easy it is to bring people together, how they can feel these emotions together. With college sports, the moment is together.
College is a community full of diversity, and with all that diversity, there is a similarity each person has: school pride. Throughout all the differences, people come together in groups to root for their university. Thick and thin, win or lose, they stick by it. The loyalty involved is such a blessing to be a part of. From an excerpt by Stacy Warner and Marlene A. Dixon, they quote how “Community psychologists have suggested that there are many benefits that enhance life quality for those who find themselves inside a social group environment that fosters a sense of community.” The atmosphere around sports is so positive; it is proven that having a community, like the one a college provides, will improve your life. It will make you feel seen, heard, and loved.
With great pride in one’s team comes great competition. The rivalries in college sports (especially football) are no joke—for example, the Iron Bowl. The sweet southern state of Alabama is split into two: Roll Tide or War Eagle. These two universities have had this rivalry since 1883, which shows how great their dislike has been. But leading up to the game, each school showcases so much spirit. Last year, students from the University of Alabama and Auburn held some friendly competitions. These competitions were to see who could raise the most food and money for people struggling with food insecurity. It also focused on spreading awareness of the problem of veteran suicide. This shows how a friendly rivalry truly brings students together for the greater good and motivates everyone to make an impact on the community. This historical resentment truly brings the students, alumni, and families together. This truly highlights how powerful college sports are to this country, and how a little friendly competition never hurt anyone.
College sports can turn a competitive atmosphere into something beneficial to the community and the nation.
Sources:
Stacy Warner, Marlene A. Dixon, “Sports and Community on Campus: Constructing a Sports Experience”, Project Muse, (2013): 238
The University of Alabama, Alabama, Auburn students team up to do good before Iron Bowl, alabamanewscenter.com