The Navigator asked students: compared to the United States, how important are athletics in your university experience?
“I think they’re very important. VIU being in the conference that it is, the athletic side is positive for the not only the school but the surrounding areas. A lot of smaller communities feed players into the system, a lot of the kids from small towns. Division down from the big name schools, get to play at a higher level, brings out good talent in younger kids.” – Zach Andres
“I’ve noticed this a lot, have you ever like watched American movies and everyone in the university gathers in the gyms—painting their faces… It seems like they have crazy spirit and I’ve never actually been to a Mariners game. I mean, if they were doing well…oh they are? Go us!” – Kelsey Linde
“I think it is important; it set a standard for a student athlete. It gives you something to strive for. You have some sort of national level championship at beginning of year the VIU team must’ve had more pressure on them this year. You also get to have all your friends and family watching you, everyone dreams of winning the game on home court.” – Tyson Strandt