Does being in large crowds turn you on? Do you have the vocal capacity of Marilyn Manson? Can your body withstand temperatures lower than 40 degrees √É¢’ wearing just a pair of shorts? Is there something about putting on that body paint that turns you into an animal? Do you have a fetish for green? Is school spirit like a religion to you? If you have answered “yes” to at least one of these questions, then you are qualified to become a Bearcat.
Binghamton University has always been applauded as one of the top colleges academically, but it was never really known for its athletics — that is, until a little over a year ago. Now after a couple of America East conference tournament wins, an NCAA All-American, an NCAA national champion, a pitcher vying for the major league and some national media coverage, the Binghamton Bearcats are well into the national spotlight. Yeah that’s right: we’ve got legit bragging rights.
Trust me youngling, you have been accepted into the University during some of the most exciting times for the Bearcats, and from the looks of everything, it’s only going to get better.
We may not have football, but we sure do have futbol. Head to the Bearcats Sports Complex to see the Binghamton men’s soccer team in action. With players from the U.K. to the U.S., these Bearcats do not disappoint, having reached the America East finals for six consecutive years. With the bright lights, hundreds of screaming fans, the infamous Bearcat Hooligans and the fresh open air, I guarantee that one game will have you hooked.
Not an outdoor kind of person? Then check out the women’s volleyball squad at the West Gym. These athletes are a tough bunch.
Once December rolls around, go down to the Events Center to check out the stellar basketball squad, which won its first ever Division I America East conference title in school history last year. With only two players leaving and former Georgetown assistant coach Kevin Broadus leading the way, this team hopes to be bigger and better than ever for the 2009-10 year. Last year’s basketball team could have given the movie “Coach Carter” a run for its money with its underdog story. An epic about individuals who lost their way in previous lives, coming together, amidst criticism and pressure to become conference champions is not something you come across every day.
When spring starts, get a load of the men’s and women’s lacrosse teams at the BSC or head down to the ball field to watch our other reigning AE champions, the Binghamton baseball team.
Are you excited yet? It beats playing video games in your dorm room.
Sure, we are not the Blue Devils, but we can say we’ve played against them, and of course our conference isn’t like the Big East but it sure keeps us entertained. Even with all the success, that’s not to say that the Bearcats have not had some drama.
Before I baptize you, young one, as a Bearcat I just want to remind you to go out and show your support because these athletes feed off your energy. They need you in the stands to cheer them on and taunt our rivals. The fanbase at BU has grown so much that it has broken the attendance records at both the Bearcats Sports Complex and the Events Center during the soccer and basketball games. Don’t be the glory hound during the conference finals. Stay loyal to the green-and-white from the start of the season.
So newbie, I christen thee a Bearcat. Go forth and show your spirit!