Everyone is HURD
Athletics plays a vital role in the Aggie experience. For me, it changed my involvement and my interactions at Utah State. I know that being part of the HURD has made me love sports more in general as well. Not only has athletics impacted my individual life, it helps unite the student body in a common cause. It doesn’t get much better than being part of something bigger than yourself.
One of my favorite parts of athletics is that every student is part of the HURD. It is not an elite group of fans. If you are passionate about Aggie athletics, then dress up, make signs, post on social media about athletic events and encourage other Aggies to go to the games. Bring the energy to the arena and show the world how great it is to be an Aggie. It is incredible that students can play such a huge role in national recognition of our university.
If you have ideas to improve your experience at games, stop by my office. I’m in there every day and wish I was able to brainstorm with more people every day. If there is anything I can do to encourage you to be there, please let me know.
One thing that we’ve launched this year to try and improve the game day experience is HURD Rewards. This student incentive program will give rewards based on attendance. Our theme is, “Go to games, get rewarded.” We have everything from sunglasses and Nike bags to an all-expense paid trip to the Mountain West Basketball Tournament. Any athletic events you’ve attended this year will count toward receiving these rewards. Simply go to hurdrewards.usu.edu to see what prizes you’re eligible for today.
This Saturday, the Aggies will face off against BYU, where you can keep earning HURD Rewards points. The Athletics Department and the USUSA Executive Council have been concerned about student attendance at this game. Odds aren’t looking great for getting a full house for a game that’s two days after Thanksgiving. When we play rival schools at home, the students impact the game so much. I know I don’t want to miss the opportunity to show a united front to BYU.
I’ll also be participating in the beard-out for Beards For Wayne during that game. Make sure you pick up your student tickets and show your support for a great cause and our fellow students on the field.
I would encourage all students to make the most of this ability to go to all the athletics games they can — especially the one this weekend. Let’s make Maverik Stadium famous and break student attendance records this year. GO AGGIES!
Thomas Rogers, Athletics and Campus Rec VP
— athleticsvp.ususa@usu.edu