Gonzaga Turnout Will Be Unknown Factor

By Chris Glennon

If Santa Clara beats Gonzaga University in men's basketball this year, students who live on campus might not have a chance to rush the court like so many Bronco faithful had the chance in doing two years ago. 

Due to the West Coast Conference's scheduling, the game between the Broncos and Bulldogs will take place on Jan. 5, the night before Santa Clara's residence halls are scheduled to re-open after winter break. Because of this, if you live on campus this year, you might not be able to stay in your room the night of the game.

"The energy of the Gonzaga game is something all (Santa Clara) students, especially freshmen, should experience," said sophomore Meghan Degnan. "Having the biggest game of the year on a day where most of the students will be unable to attend is a shame."

As of right now, Santa Clara's housing Web page says that the residence halls will reopen at noon on Sunday, Jan. 6. 

Still, it seems some students will be willing to sacrifice a good night's sleep to watch the game.

"I made sure my flight back to California was early enough so I could come," said Degnan. "I wish they would have decided to open the dorms early, though." 

According to Associated Student Government Spirit Chair Frankie Bastone, a proposal has been sent out and is currently being discussed. At this point no changes have been made.

In 2011, a boisterous Leavey Center saw Kevin Foster score 36 points en route to an 85-71 Santa Clara victory over Gonzaga. After the game hundreds of Ruff Riders and other fans flooded the floor. 

"Whenever you have that home crowd behind you, especially the Ruff Riders, you tend to play better," Foster said. 

Ruff Riders, you tend to play better," Foster said. 

Head Coach Kerry Keating recognizes the importance of the student body and the Ruff Riders.

"The Ruff Riders will once again play a huge role in each and every game this year," said Keating. "Our hope and expectation is that they are at the game because their fellow students have been working hard the entire spring and summer to have a great year."

Keating stressed that although the Gonzaga game may be seen by some as the most important game of the season, the student body will be needed at all 19 Bronco home games this year.

Athletic Director Dan Coonan said that having a vocal student section is a huge priority for the athletic department, both because of the effect they have on the teams and the excitement that it adds to student life on campus. 

Student organizations have also taken notice of the unfortunate scheduling. Bronco Week, a week where these student organizations across campus help put on events to rally Bronco spirit, normally coincides with the Gonzaga basketball game, but this year it had to be altered. It will now be in early February, leading up to a Thursday night game against Saint Mary's College.

In October, the Ruff Riders Facebook page sent out a survey to its followers asking questions about attending the Gonzaga game. Ruff Riders has been in contact with the school but couldn't comment further.

"We really enjoy (the students') support," Foster added. "Hopefully all the Ruff Riders and the alumni will come out a lot more this year because we hope to be winning a lot more this year too."

Contact Chris Glennon at cglennon@scu.edu or call (408) 554-4852.