By: Jonelle Bobak
For the first time in Gardner-Webb history, ESPNU will televise the Runnin’ Bulldogs men’s basketball team tonight, at 7 p.m. in the Paul Porter Arena. “People you see on ESPN will be there,” said Katie Spiro, Director of Marketing & Promotions for Athletics at GWU.
Spiro wants all students to get involved and have fun. Students are encouraged to show up and support the Runnin’ Bulldogs as they attempt to defeat the Radford Highlanders. The game has been given the title “Back in Black.” The Runnin’ Bulldogs will be playing in their black jerseys and are asking their fans to wear all black to the game to show support.
Familiar faces from ESPN arrived on campus around 11 a.m. to prepare to televise the game.
The team has a 9-6 record so far in the season.
“The players are as much students as athletes and when students show up to sporting events, it creates community,” said Spiro. She says it solidifies the relationship between the audience and team.
“The players definitely feed off the audience,” said Spiro.
Free t-shirts, glow sticks, and pom poms will be given away at the door until supplies last. At every media time-out there will be prizes to win.
Many are anticipated to be at the game to watch the Runnin’ Bulldogs take on the Radford Highlanders. So, Spiro advises fans to get there early.