| When I was growing up back in Verdi, Minnesota, I remember spending three to four
nights a week at the local ballpark. Softball brought Verdi together. We had men’s
nights, women’s nights, couples nights, kids’ nights, and even old timers’
nights. Some nights were single games and some were double headers, but there were games
every night. The concession stand sold barbeques, popcorn, candy, and pop, and the
proceeds went to fixing up the ballpark. Then, once in a while, we would drive up to
Minneapolis to see the Minnesota Twins play. We watched the Vikings on TV, but Dad’s
passion was always baseball. He and my uncle loved to argue, because Dad was a Twins’
fan and Uncle Eggert was a Yankees’ fan.
My point here is that athletics arouse people’s emotions, touch people’s
hearts, help them form a sense of community, make them feel a part of something that is
both communal and competitive. Athletic events provide entertainment and education in
sportsmanship that serve as models for social interaction in other settings. They also
provide spaces to gather in--spaces not unlike watering holes or town halls or community
centers or even market places—but with more of a defined beginning, ending, and
purpose than most of the others.
Athletic programs in higher education promote academics—education—college
degrees—productive lives—in addition to promoting both community spirit and
competitive spirit. Research shows that students who develop a sense of belonging to a
college are more likely to stay and to graduate. Alumni with a connection to the athletic
programs are more likely to feel a sense of loyalty to the college. Athletic events
promote that sense of college community important to student retention. Athletic programs
also provide scholarships for student/athletes, making access to higher education easier
for some who might otherwise have trouble attending.
The Athletic Department at LCSC is a vital part of the college, and I am proud of our
programs, our students, and our coaches. I am looking forward to a great year. Go
Warriors!
Dr. Dene Thomas, President
Lewis-Clark State College
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