[media-credit name=”Rashid Hasirbaf, Staff” align=”alignright” width=”214″][/media-credit]Gold helmets faintly reflect DeVore stadiums beaming lights into the eyes of devoted Jaguar supporters as sanguine cheers and a sizzling hot dog aroma perfumes the evening.

Football games at Southwestern College draw crowds that present a unified collegiate establishment with radiating spirit, but unfortunately that is only the shiny side to a weathered coin.

When it comes to support for the athletics at SWC, the 12 other sports get snubbed by everyone who is not either a relative or a friend of an athlete.

A lack of support and spirit from students at community colleges is generally seen throughout the country.

Some might believe that because it is a community college the quality of the athlete is not going to be at a high level. That is a misconception, because thousands of athletes from two-year schools get recruited into prestigious Division I programs. Many future stars compete at SWC and colleges all over the country.

At SWC some of the blame can partly be put on the students, but our school does not do a strong enough job spreading the word about upcoming athletic events. Similar to the news updates that are sent out in the mass e-mails to the students, sports would benefit from a comparable set of alerts.

College students have their plates full of life’s endeavors. Taking time out of your busy schedule to support your struggling water polo team might seem like a waste of time, but distractions can sometimes be breaths of fresh air when submerged in an ocean of obstacles.

Attending sporting events can be a net benefit for both the crowd and the student athlete. At these games concession stands offer the audience treats and beverages, which provide the program with proceeds for equipment and other expenses. Not only can a spectator enjoy a competitive match but they can also enjoy an inexpensive snack.

To expect a packed house at every game is an absurd and unrealistic supposition but calling for a consistent turnout is not preposterous. Students work hard––student athletes work twice as hard. Their dedication and commitment to the representation of this college through athletics should be supported and appreciated by all who attend that institution.