Dating auction raises $725 toward victory bell
Amidst whistling and catcalls, 11 men and 13 women were bid on at the Associated Students of Utah State University Athletic Date Auction Tuesday night in the Sunburst Lounge.
The money raised will go toward a new victory bell.
USU students spent between $10 and $90 on athletes from various sports for a dinner and murder mystery date Jan. 23 at 6 p.m. In addition, the winners each received an Aggie hand towel with their athlete’s autograph on it.
Although the lounge was far from full, the ASUSU Athletic Committee earned $725, which will all go toward the purchase of a new victory bell, to be placed either in the Spectrum where the old broken bell is or by the bull.
“We are very impressed with the outcome,” Jami Vorhees of the Athletic Committee, said. “It was more than what we had expected originally.”
Steve Lutes, who spent the most money of the night, $90 for cheerleader Alana Oscerson, said he enjoyed the auction and was willing to spend a lot of money.
“I came prepared,” he said. “I’m a high-roller and have expensive tastes.”
The most sought-after male athlete was Mike Stowell from the basketball team, who an individual paid $80 for.
“I thought prostitution was illegal in Utah,” Stowell said. “I was nervous while I was up there, so I acted like a goof and shook my butt. It’s all for a good cause.”
Mike Ahmad from the basketball team went for $40. He said he was also nervous on stage, but wished more bidders had come.
“I just love to have fun,” he said. “But I wish more people would have showed up and supported the school – it’s all for a good cause.”
Amber Tubb from the track team, said being auctioned off was a strange experience.
“It’s so weird to have people looking at you and putting a price on your name,” she said.
Shae Messersmith, also from the track team, agreed.
“It was a different experience, but it was fun,” she said. “I was terrified and shaking, but I’m glad I could help out.”
The committee members haven’t decided whether they will hold more auctions in the future, but are grateful to the students who bid on the athletes.
“We want to thank everyone who came out,” Vorhees said. “The athletes were really excited.”