Poor STUDENT support....

[UAZip0510]

You're going to take the word of people who naturally dislike the Akron student section under any circumstance over actually going down there yourself for a game to see how things are? Fine. Be miserable in your self-imposed exile.

The AK-Rowdies are just people. Students from a bunch of different majors and walks of life who all enjoy watching sports and cheering for their fellow students to succeed in those sports.

Self-imposed exile? I'm not a student, haven't been for a long time.

I take no personal issue with anyone in the group. I'm sure they're all good people. This is a discussion of why there is a lack of student support and I'm offering my personal opinion based on what I've seen and heard. I guess it's ok for you to spew BS about the assistant coaches not being good enough but the Rowdies are off limits. I hope others are willing to self-reflect on why the student section is failing in non-Can't games...I sure hate seeing empty seats doen there.

[UAZip0510]

No, it's because they show up to road games and put the other student sections to shame, all while being better behaved. I've been on road trips where not a single Rowdie uttered a curse out loud, but the home students pissed on the door to our bus as we were leaving the arena. The Rowdies have been insulted and called every word you could think of, and taking it with a smile and courtesy.

The AK-Rowdies are freaking tame. They can't do a damn thing without half a dozen university departments breathing down their necks, but Can't prints "Screw the Roo" shirts for their students and lets them chant "bullshit" on national TV, Ohio lets the OZone do whatever the hell they want with no recourse, Penn State students break into our lockerroom to steal the uniforms, Ohio State is worse than all of that.

You have no idea what you're talking about.

You're redirecting the argument. When did I say they weren't classy? The discussion is about why, other than the smaller, core Rowdy group, UA students don't show up to non-Can't games.

But apparently that's because of the team and the coaches, correct?

[Sean]

You're redirecting the argument. When did I say they weren't classy? The discussion is about why, other than the smaller, core Rowdy group, UA students don't show up to non-Can't games.

But apparently that's because of the team and the coaches, correct?

I don't know how often you come to campus, but I don't think the issue is any one group of people. Some of the best student supported athletic teams are from the national brand schools. Many of the students at these institutions have been supporting their team since before they were even out of their diapers. On campus I see more Ohio State shirts then I care to see, I even see some people wearing Ohio University shirts which makes me want to puke. I think to the average Akron student, the campus is just a community college setting. I think the Rowdies do the best they can with the students they can get.

[Dave in Green]

This could be a really productive discussion as long as everyone stays on point and doesn't drift.

[UAZip0510]

This could be a really productive discussion as long as everyone stays on point and doesn't drift.

Agreed. I guess we can analyze the coaches, players, AD, GA's, etc but not the Rowdies. The best organizations, professional or non, are willing to look in the mirror to better themselves.

[FromdaBurgh]

Here's the deal..when you have the Can't board COMPLIMENTING our student section at THEIR GYM..when you have Cant's radio station..."calling out their own student section for their LACK of support"....I personally consider that the BIGGEST FORM OF FLATTERY! Say what you want....when ANOTHER school gives props to our SUPPORTIVE and LOUD our students are..then you may want to "transform your thinking"...NOW...my personal problem is that outside of the AK Rowdies whom I LOVE AND ADORE FOREVER.....the general student section is HORRIBLE when it comes to supporting and 'making noise' during home games!

THAT is what I find horrendous and straight pathetic! Really...4-0 and we can't even get you up and standing and shouting and making noise..REALLY....

#its my opinion and I'm entitled to it#

[UAZip0510]

Here's the deal..when you have the Can't board COMPLIMENTING our student section at THEIR GYM..when you have Cant's radio station..."calling out their own student section for their LACK of support"....I personally consider that the BIGGEST FORM OF FLATTERY! Say what you want....when ANOTHER school gives props to our SUPPORTIVE and LOUD our students are..then you may want to "transform your thinking"...NOW...my personal problem is that outside of the AK Rowdies whom I LOVE AND ADORE FOREVER.....the general student section is HORRIBLE when it comes to supporting and 'making noise' during home games!

THAT is what I find horrendous and straight pathetic! Really...4-0 and we can't even get you up and standing and shouting and making noise..REALLY....

#its my opinion and I'm entitled to it#

Can't games have never been a problem for the Rowdies or the previously unnamed student sections of the past. It's the non-Can't games that are, as you point out, the real issue.

[Dave in Green]

@UAZip0510, I have a specific question for you. You say that your friends from other MAC schools have bad things to say about the Rowdies, but you won't share what they said. Therefore, there's no way to know if that has anything to do with why "UA students don't show up to non-Can't games." Productive discussions require full disclosure of perceived problems so that solutions can be found, and if what your friends from other MAC schools say doesn't relate to that, they are not pertinent to the conversation. If they do have something to do with it, they should be fully disclosed or the perceived problems can't be addressed.

My latest experience with the Rowdies was watching them represent UA at Can't. They did a great job of cheering the team on, and did not do a single thing I saw that anyone from UA could reasonably object to. In other words, I can't see the problems you're talking about, and you're not providing me enough data to help me understand what the perceived problems are.

[plowerman78]

if the specific problem that u say is non Can't games, let us go back to the fact they we JUST HAD the largest student attended game non OU and Can't since Dambrot showed up.

[plowerman78]

i will also point out that this occurred without any give aways such as OU giving out 1000 yes 1000 free replica jerseys to Ohio students, and also Buffalo giving out "Reggie" tshirts for there students.

[UAZip0510]

@UAZip0510, I have a specific question for you. You say that your friends from other MAC schools have bad things to say about the Rowdies, but you won't share what they said. Therefore, there's no way to know if that has anything to do with why "UA students don't show up to non-Can't games." Productive discussions require full disclosure of perceived problems so that solutions can be found, and if what your friends from other MAC schools say doesn't relate to that, they are not pertinent to the conversation. If they do have something to do with it, they should be fully disclosed or the perceived problems can't be addressed.

My latest experience with the Rowdies was watching them represent UA at Can't. They did a great job of cheering the team on, and did not do a single thing I saw that anyone from UA could reasonably object to. In other words, I can't see the problems you're talking about, and you're not providing me enough data to help me understand what the perceived problems are.

Before I share this, I want to clearly point out that these are not MY opinions. Just what I've heard from others. I've heard the "AK-Nerdies", "AK-Rejects", and a few things far meaner than that. As wrong as is it is to judge people you do not know personally, people still do it, and they do it to the Rowdies. Look at Greek organizations on campus - there are the "cool" fraternities, the "smart" fraternities, etc. Fair or not, these groups are judged and a perception is created for them. The perception of the AK-Rowdies, on and off campus, is that they are great fans, but not a "cool" group, which is why I think the average UA student decides to sit on their own or just stay home.

[FromdaBurgh]

if the specific problem that u say is non Can't games, let us go back to the fact they we JUST HAD the largest student attended game non OU and Can't since Dambrot showed up.

Here is my issue with the "student section"...again...outside of the AK ROWDIES who sit on the floor...LOVE U GUYS!! I was very disappointed in the RESPONSE of those students. I give credit for the fact that they "showed up" and it was the largest student attendance and all of that good stuff..BUT (and I paid VERY CLOSE attention to this)...when the announcer ran out on the floor and said "everybody get on your feet and make some noise", "come on support your team", "don't you want them to win...stand up"...BOTH STUDENTS SECTIONS on the Upper level DID NOT MOVE! On both sides...and believe me when I tell you...I was watching VERY CLOSELY..they didn't get up, they didnt open their mouths...they weren't cheering...they werent "in the game"..though they were "at the game" AND THAT is my problem! I mean, they looked at that announcer as if he had 3 heads and REFUSED to get up and say anything!!!

So though the numbers were good...their TRUE SUPPORT was non existent and that (for me) is UNACCEPTABLE for a 4-0 team! Just not cool at all!

#justmyopinion#

[UAZip0510]

Here is my issue with the "student section"...again...outside of the AK ROWDIES who sit on the floor...LOVE U GUYS!! I was very disappointed in the RESPONSE of those students. I give credit for the fact that they "showed up" and it was the largest student attendance and all of that good stuff..BUT (and I paid VERY CLOSE attention to this)...when the announcer ran out on the floor and said "everybody get on your feet and make some noise", "come on support your team", "don't you want them to win...stand up"...BOTH STUDENTS SECTIONS on the Upper level DID NOT MOVE! On both sides...and believe me when I tell you...I was watching VERY CLOSELY..they didn't get up, they didnt open their mouths...they weren't cheering...they werent "in the game"..though they were "at the game" AND THAT is my problem! I mean, they looked at that announcer as if he had 3 heads and REFUSED to get up and say anything!!!

So though the numbers were good...their TRUE SUPPORT was non existent and that (for me) is UNACCEPTABLE for a 4-0 team! Just not cool at all!

#justmyopinion#

I think a large part in this is location. If you make noise when a player shoots a free throw and he misses, you get even louder for the 2nd one. Why? Results. It's hard to feel like you're having an impact on the opposition from the bleachers. Give the students the lower section behind the visitors bench and you'll finally see a true home court advantage.

[FromdaBurgh]

OK...UAZIPS...I can go with that answer...but I guess I feel like..no matter where you sit...if you are making noise, and standing on your feet...it will have an impact regardless...BUT...I can see your point! Well stated...grasshopper!! LOL

[UAZip0510]

OK...UAZIPS...I can go with that answer...but I guess I feel like..no matter where you sit...if you are making noise, and standing on your feet...it will have an impact regardless...BUT...I can see your point! Well stated...grasshopper!! LOL

I'm glad we can have an honest discussion about this. The student section isn't having the impact it has the capability of having and analyzing all aspects of it is the only way to find ways to improve. Hopefully the Rowdies/UA are open to constructive criticism and new ideas moving forward.

[Dave in Green]

Before I share this, I want to clearly point out that these are not MY opinions. Just what I've heard from others. I've heard the "AK-Nerdies", "AK-Rejects", and a few things far meaner than that. As wrong as is it is to judge people you do not know personally, people still do it, and they do it to the Rowdies. Look at Greek organizations on campus - there are the "cool" fraternities, the "smart" fraternities, etc. Fair or not, these groups are judged and a perception is created for them. The perception of the AK-Rowdies, on and off campus, is that they are great fans, but not a "cool" group, which is why I think the average UA student decides to sit on their own or just stay home.

OMG, if it's all about what group kids feel are cool, I can't help you on that. I outgrew trying to hang with the "cool" group almost a half century ago when I realized how shallow that crap was.

[plowerman78]

first off UAZip0510 i respect ur opinion, i remember you pointing this out the AK-nerdy thing 2 and a half seasons ago when i was down in Florida, changes have been made (including all UA students being allowed down low), obviously by the increased attendance last year and now the Ball State game something is working. Again I respect your opinion just want to let u know that.

Mama Zeke, its baby steps with the upper section. As much as I want them to be standing and making noise throughout the game right now its not going to happen. Now that being said we finally have them sitting all together, and believe it or not Ill be up in that section starting next Saturday to help them out. Can't shouldnt be a problem (as expected) and if OU continues to grow in the hype machine that shouldnt be an issue. But its the other games where we need those atmospheres is where the help will be needed. see you at UB

[UAZip0510]

Side note - ZachTheZip, Root4Roo - judging by your responses, I'm guessing your Rowdies. I truly hope you can differentiate my opinion (that you are a great fan group but that we just need to fine tune some things - a section name, location, marketing, etc) and the opinions of others that I've heard and shared here today (the not-so-nice things). I want UA basketball to "Think Bigger", and that includes our student section. To do so, we need to analyze everything.

[UAZip0510]

OMG, if it's all about what group kids feel are cool, I can't help you on that. I outgrew trying to hang with the "cool" group almost a half century ago when I realized how shallow that crap was.

Read the first line Dave...not my opinion. It's silly, but many college kids judge things based on some pretty stupid/shallow stuff.

[UAZip0510]

first off UAZip0510 i respect ur opinion, i remember you pointing this out the AK-nerdy thing 2 and a half seasons ago when i was down in Florida, changes have been made (including all UA students being allowed down low), obviously by the increased attendance last year and now the Ball State game something is working. Again I respect your opinion just want to let u know that.

Mama Zeke, its baby steps with the upper section. As much as I want them to be standing and making noise throughout the game right now its not going to happen. Now that being said we finally have them sitting all together, and believe it or not Ill be up in that section starting next Saturday to help them out. Can't shouldnt be a problem (as expected) and if OU continues to grow in the hype machine that shouldnt be an issue. But its the other games where we need those atmospheres is where the help will be needed. see you at UB

I appreciate that and, again, the "AK-Nerdy" thing isn't my opinion...I get mad when I hear it. I do think perception of an organization plays BIG time into what college students get involved in, which is why I brought up hearing that as a possible factor in all of this. I have nothing but love for my fellow UA fans.

[plowerman78]

i understand, trust me i heard it when i was in charge.

[UAZip0510]

i understand, trust me i heard it when i was in charge.

Thank you for being able to differentiate what I've heard and shared and what I personally believe. Keep up the good work in transforming the student section.

[jem101]

I'll throw in my two-cents. I just graduated from the UA, so I think I can bring the student perspective. I've been a member of the ROWDIES, but have never been part of the "in" group. I went to all the soccer matches and probably 70% of the basketball games. Here's a few points to think about:

1. The ROWDIES who show up regularly are amazing fans. Always vocal and at all the games. That deserves acknowledgment and praise.

2. All this talk of the harm the rowdies have done for student attendance, but I bet you if you got rid of them attendance would drop. They do a good job marketing the teams.

3. There definitely has been a "clique" feel to the group. This can tend to alienate new members. I'm sure it's not intentional, but it's something to be aware of.

4. Here's been my biggest problem with the rowdies in the past: Taking a friend to sit in the baseline seats is not a good idea if they are a casual fan. My one buddy is not a big basketball fan, so he doesn't get into the games too much. He'll come out to a couple games a year, but he's not that into the games and there's nothing wrong with that. He's vocal in big situations, but isn't one of those people that yells the whole game. While sitting with the rowdies he's had other members yell at him for not getting into the game enough. That is not going to get anyone to come back to the games. In fact, it makes me not want to sit down there as well.

5. As to the students up above not getting into the game, I think that one solution would be to have a couple games where the rowdies intersperse in the upper level student seating and try to lead by example. When you have a bunch of people sitting on their hands around you, it's going to make it intimidating to get loud. By having some rowdies up there, we can eliminate this problem.

Just a couple thoughts for the ROWDIES to consider. Overall, I think the ROWDIES do a great job.

[UAZip0510]

I'll throw in my two-cents. I just graduated from the UA, so I think I can bring the student perspective. I've been a member of the ROWDIES, but have never been part of the "in" group. I went to all the soccer matches and probably 70% of the basketball games. Here's a few points to think about:

1. The ROWDIES who show up regularly are amazing fans. Always vocal and at all the games. That deserves acknowledgment and praise.

2. All this talk of the harm the rowdies have done for student attendance, but I bet you if you got rid of them attendance would drop. They do a good job marketing the teams.

3. There definitely has been a "clique" feel to the group. This can tend to alienate new members. I'm sure it's not intentional, but it's something to be aware of.

4. Here's been my biggest problem with the rowdies in the past: Taking a friend to sit in the baseline seats is not a good idea if they are a casual fan. My one buddy is not a big basketball fan, so he doesn't get into the games too much. He'll come out to a couple games a year, but he's not that into the games and there's nothing wrong with that. He's vocal in big situations, but isn't one of those people that yells the whole game. While sitting with the rowdies he's had other members yell at him for not getting into the game enough. That is not going to get anyone to come back to the games. In fact, it makes me not want to sit down there as well.

5. As to the students up above not getting into the game, I think that one solution would be to have a couple games where the rowdies intersperse in the upper level student seating and try to lead by example. When you have a bunch of people sitting on their hands around you, it's going to make it intimidating to get loud. By having some rowdies up there, we can eliminate this problem.

Just a couple thoughts for the ROWDIES to consider. Overall, I think the ROWDIES do a great job.

Excellent points. I do want to point out that I do not want to eliminate the Rowdies group...I'd like them to become a part of a bigger, named student section located in the lower seats behind the visitors bench. Eliminating the Rowdies altogether would be eliminating die-hards, which would be foolish to do.

[plowerman78]

as for the click thing it just seems to happen no matter what year we are in, the more "die hard" ones (go to othere sporting events outside soccer and basketball) just seem to well hang out more. Its non intentional at all. And again Ill be up in the upper section on Saturday, acouple ones that have graduated will be up there as well to try to get that going.