SHANE WILSON

Mere weeks separate the students of Emporia State from the ever-coveted summer vacation.The time for books and studying will come to a halt for most, and along with that, the crack of a bat, the whoosh of a tennis racket, and the thud of a shot hitting gravel will also halt.

I know I’ve spent my fair share of time trying to persuade my readers to get out and catch a game, but I only do so because I think it’s important.

A fanbase without fans is a sad, sad affair.

The chance to go watch some premium MIAA competition this year is waning and fast.How awesome would it be if the momentum from the women’s basketball National Championship carried over to a spring sport?

I’m sure the athletic department would love to see it.

I know what you’re thinking.Spring sports don’t have the same fan appeal that fall and winter sports do.I partly agree with that.It would be hard for me to pass up a good game of football or basketball to watch a softball game.

I implore you to at least give it a chance.It’s still exciting to see your peers hit a home run or jump a record height.Just because the spring sports aren’t the “big ticket” sports doesn’t mean they don’t deserve some love, too.

Think about the time and dedication it takes to play a college sport.Now think about the same factors playing a sport that receives little to no admiration or attention.It doesn’t sound too fun to me.

These student-athletes are just like the student-athletes that we all adore from the big name sports.For every Alli Volkens there’s a Kevin Wempe, who deserves just as much adoration as the former.

These athletes can do some pretty amazing things as well – just try and hit a tiny ball with a stick going 90 miles per hour and tell me how easy it is.

I’m not trying to criticize those who simply don’t enjoy baseball or tennis or track and field.I’m simply trying to persuade those of you who won’t even give these sports a chance to do just that.Who knows, you might enjoy yourself.

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