The new student football ticket policy has numerous problems with it, but for me, there is one that stands out above the rest. This is that the policy in question comes as a direct insult to my fandom, which is something I am quite proud of.
The email sent to us states, "We believe that this system will allow the most passionate fans to sit closest to the field, giving our team a louder, more intimidating home field advantage." Well, let me be the first to tell you I'm one of the most passionate fans at this school, but there is more to being a passionate fan than yelling as loud as you can. To me, being a passionate fan means taking in the entire Notre Dame football experience and loving every minute of it. Any passionate fan will tell you that's not something you can do if you need to get to the stadium two hours early to get a good seat. I want to tailgate like a champion, watch the band walk in and take the time to enjoy the atmosphere. When I finally do enter the stadium, I want to be in awe of the sight laid out before me as I walk through the gate and into the stands, which is impossible if I'm worrying about where I'm going to sit.
I understand what the Legion wants because I want the same thing: for our student section to be as loud and intimidating as possible. Unfortunately, they have the whole thing backwards. The passionate fans aren't the ones racing to the stadium to beat the crowd. We're the ones who partake in the full experience and still make it in time to see the team run onto the field.
Love thee.
Thomas Wack
sophomore
off campus
April 18
