The University set a record this past football season, and members of student government and the University administration are still talking about it. Police escorted an Autzen Stadium-high of 70 people from the Nov. 19 Civil War game for unruly conduct.
The ASUO Athletic Department Finance Committee and the Allen Hall Advertising group, a student-run agency in the journalism school, are currently working on a “pro-classy advertising campaign” that includes brochures outlining expectations of fan conduct and advertisements in the Emerald and on campus radio station KWVA 88.1 FM.
So far, ADFC and AHA have come up with several taglines to appear on the brochures, which will be stapled to tickets. These taglines may also be attached to beer and soda cups at the Moshofsky Center.
University President Dave Frohnmayer discussed the increase in obnoxious fans during an Oct. 17 meeting with the Associated Students Presidential Advisory Council, a group of students that advises the president on student affairs.
ASUO Senate Vice President Sara Hamilton, who attended the meeting, took the issue to the Student Senate.
It took three weeks, and only one home game remained in the season, but the Senate decided against more extreme measures, such as revoking ticket privileges and increasing security.
The ADFC drafted a letter, later approved by the Senate, and sent it to Frohnmayer and the Athletics Department stating it was confident it could resolve the problem “without significant intervention from the administration” or implementation of more severe measures.
The ADFC letter also mentioned having student athletes appear on the big screen and having coaches give public talks before games.
Frohnmayer clarified in an interview that the problem was not only with students. He said fan behavior issues are threatening college and even professional sports across the map. But he said he was thrilled to see student senators take such an active role in the matter.
“I thought this showed real statesmanship and citizenship, and I’m really proud of them,” Frohnmayer said.
For now, Frohnmayer will continue talks with Athletic Director Bill Moos about the issue, albeit without any particular plan of action.
Frohnmayer said the “extremes” of fan behavior occur mostly in the fall, during football season, but ASUO President Adam Walsh has expressed his embarrassment at basketball games this season, too. Walsh said he thinks it’s particularly obnoxious when Duck fans yell “sucks” while players from the opposing team are introduced.
Walsh noted the renowned reputation of the Pit, a significant intimidation factor for opponents visiting McArthur Court, but he said fans often take taunting too far.
Frohnmayer said he didn’t find that to be the case.
“I’ve been there and had a flavor of the Pit, and it’s a bit subdued this year,” he said.
ADFC member Natalie Kinsey said the project is targeted at football spectators, but may be used during basketball season if necessary.
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