2008 Woodie Awards
Pack the Pitt breaks attendance record
Kaitlin O'Reilly
Issue date: 1/31/08 Section: News
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"We knew it was going to be tough to top last year's debut of Big Red. However, we were still able to advertise for it and get the buzz going and we actually set a new attendance record for the day. We had over 2,000 people at the games," said Michael Tarantino, President of the Student Government Finance Board.
An energetic pep band, the cheerleading squad, and Big Red all came together to create an exhilarating experience as the Pioneers battled Quinnipiac for the number one spot in the NEC conference.
The Pioneers beat the bobcats with a final score of 92-82 in Women's hoops and 75-74 in Men's.
So, can the large fan turnout be credited in assisting the teams to victory? When asked whether he felt more motivated when students filled the stands, sophomore and Pioneer Men's Basketball team member Corey Hassan said "Yes, definitely. I think everyone on the team gets more amped and energized when there are more people here."
"I feel like I can't let all these people down and it pushes me and the team to play harder," said sophomore guard Chauncey Hardy.
I wish the stands were packed like that for every home game, Hardy said.
"Both teams definitely had the crowd behind them yesterday and I think it definitely gives them that extra push when the game is close at the end. That's why I hope that Saturday won't be the last game for everyone. We need the stands full every night not just [at] 'Pack the Pitt,'" said Tarantino.
"Pack The Pitt" is a student-government planned event that has been going on for a few years, according to Student Government President Matt Telvi.
Student government sent out e-mails, posted flyers, and even "dorm stormed," walking throughout the freshmen residence halls to notify people of the game.
Student governments' efforts to get students to go to the games definitely did not go unnoticed, as many seemed to be impressed by the outcome.
"There were definitely a lot more people than last year. I think we're promoting the games a lot better," said Hardy.
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