Being a fan includes supporting women too

There is a major problem with many of the fans of Fresno State athletics.

It seems as if some of the self-proclaimed sports fanatics aren’t so nutty about all of the Fresno State sports across the gender lines.

I know you are thinking this is another girl-power story, but it isn’t. I am talking about the fact that Fresno fans aren’t living up to their end of the bargain.

If a person is going to claim he or she is a fan of Fresno State athletics then that person should be a fan no matter who is playing.

Why only attend a men’s game when there are women’s games being played that are equally good?
I have yet to understand the many excuses that are given to justify this lack of support. A few examples: Men are more physical. Men are more exciting. Men move at a faster pace. Have you been to a women’s sporting event lately?

The women’s soccer team is the reigning Western Athletic Conference champion, yet the stadium is still not filled with supporters. Year after year, the women’s softball team makes its presence known at its NCAA tournament with a few loyal fans.

The women’s basketball team had a record-breaking season last year, but you still see the red seats and the student section empty.

Yet, the football team, currently with a 1-4 season, still brings in thousands of fans all joining together to do the wave.

I know what you’re thinking: just because I am a part of the women’s athletic program, of course I am going to complain. But the proof is in the achievements shown. Women’s athletic teams are taking care of business just as well as the men.

I understand and agree that fans are supposed to stick by their teams through ups and downs. Still there are “fans” that can’t support a team while it is winning just because women are the ones playing the game.

I know, from experience, that women’s sports are just as exciting and competitive as men’s sports, but I guess telling people isn’t enough. There is no excuse for not coming to the games. The tickets are free for all students and the games are entertaining.

Imagine the clock running down and the score is 67-58 with Fresno State women’s basketball team up against four-time defending WAC champion Louisiana Tech.

The buzzer sounds and the small student section and band erupt in cheers as Fresno State beats LA Tech for the first time in school history.

This is exactly what the Fresno State women’s team experienced last season.

They were able to win the game with as much intensity and excitement as any men’s game played in the Save Mart Center.

Here’s a challenge to all those Fresno State athletic supporters: instead of having a closed mind as to what is exciting and good in the athletic world, open your mind to something new.

The world of women’s athletics is exciting and competitive and the teams also need your support.

So if you are a true Fresno State athletic fan, I will be seeing you at the next women’s athletic event cheering them on to a victory.

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