Dayne Francis | The Signal
While Georgia State athletes are competing against opponents on their respective playing grounds, they are surrounded by some of their biggest motivators, which are the fans. Georgia State athletics includes a total of 15 sports teams that require a sound fan base.
All blue all in
Similar to Duke University’s Cameron Crazies or the 12th man for the Seattle Seahawks, the Panther Family creates a supportive vibe for all athletics. This support stimulates an exhilarating feeling for sophomore receiver Penny Hart.
“It’s electric,” Hart said. “When you make plays and hear the crowd scream it eggs you on to just want to do more. You want to win for the people that are there and you don’t want to disappoint them.”
One Panther fan in particular understands that fan support is a major key to success as well as creates tradition. Junior, Jack Brinson has been featured in Georgia State’s media, zoomed in on by various sports networks, but some fans may describe him as the guy who paints his face blue and sits in the front row. After attending Westlake High School in Atlanta, Brinson enrolled at Georgia State and undoubtedly brought his school spirit along with him.
“Georgia State sports mean a lot to me,” Brinson said. “I literally watch all sports and put all of my loyalties to various teams within these sports. I would have to rank my loyalty to Georgia State at No. 2, only behind NASCAR because I’ve watched that my entire life. Going to games just brings me a lot of joy whether the team(s) win or lose.”
Brinson is not the only person who finds joy in the atmosphere and watching the games, but the athletes find joy in seeing the fans come out. Knowing they have the ability to make the fans proud while feeding off of the energy, provides athletes with the extra push they need to cross the finish line.
Senior forward Markus Crider singled out the fans as one aspect that drives him to become a better player and stay focused.
“One thing that drives me is my family,” Crider said. “Especially during the games, the fans. I know during the Georgia Southern game the fans were so into it, which just made me that more into the game. I could be hurt, but it doesn’t matter because I’m going out there to give my all. I’m going to do my best every time because I want to please the fans because they show their support for us, so we want to give back something to them.”
Fan Motivation
While the athletes draw part of their motivation from the fans, the fans gain inspiration from their school spirit. The willingness to show up to most home games, participate in chants and scream for the team stems from a sense of pride. The fans are proud to call Georgia State their university or team of choice.
“My biggest motivation would actually be the environment of the school. I’ve always wanted to be a part of a huge group of fans,” Brinson said. “I just enjoy those loud and crazy environments where the majority of the stadium is into the games. In Atlanta, Georgia State is really the only place that is into every single game, although I will say that the Hawk’s sixth man section has done a pretty decent job in trying to create a similar atmosphere at those games.”
Gaining Panthers
Hart appreciates the fans and wants the numbers to grow over the next two years.
“More fans, more energy, more excitement, more tradition and more culture,” Hart said. “I appreciate them and we love them. I encourage them to continue to support us during each and every game that we play, whether in season or offseason. As well as supporting everyone in other sports.”
From a fan’s perspective, Brinson suggested several ways in which Georgia State athletics could assist the fan base in expanding. This growth is crucial in order for athletes to feel supported by their university and peers.
“I think we could probably do more promotions for games and giveaways at games to attract bigger crowds. I remember in the past years I would see more posters advertising upcoming games around campus as well as the big banner over the bridge between the sports arena and unity plaza that stated when the next game was,” Brinson said. “We also had some pretty dope giveaways in the past years such as shooting sleeves, t-shirts, gloves, and scarfs for the first 500 fans or so. We would always have a great crowd when doing that. The bobblehead night this year was a step in the right direction.”
A message from the fans
The fans recognize the hard work and dedication athletes put into practices and games. However, along with being an athlete they are also students which contributes to an already hectic schedule. Trying to stay on top of classes and perform at a high level at games is not an easy task. The fans admire the commitment of all athletes.
“Just continue to strive to do good both on and off the field/court,” Brinson said. “All of our teams are getting better and bringing us more attention on a national scale, so it’s important that the athletes make a good impression for themselves as well as the university.”
A message from the athletes
Redshirt senior guard Kevin Ware considers the fans to be apart of his extended family. From hearing the chants, to seeing funny distractions to throw off the other team, Ware is grateful for the Panther Family. Whether win or lose the team still feels the support from the fans, which helps stay optimistic and produce on the court.
“I’ve had the most fun playing here than I’ve had at any other school,” Ware said. “We really appreciate the fans. It’s been a rocky season and we have to get back to the way Panther basketball is played, but we’re thankful for everything the fans do for us.”
