How 'Cuse is Preparing for the Duke Game
Crazed sports fans and heavy drinkers alike are beginning to gear up for what may be the greatest event of the year at SU: the Syracuse vs Duke basketball game. Held annually, the game features one of the greatest college basketball rivalries and the craziest fan festivities. For some this is a special event, but for those in charge, this is just another game.
“We are preparing as we would for any large event," says Peter Sala, Senior Associate Athletics Director for Facility Operations and Carrier Dome Managing Director. We will communicate with the fans and the public to encourage early arrival to avoid any delays associated with the screening process at the entry gates."
Most fans, however, are going a little more all out for this game than the standard sports event at the Dome.
“I’m painting my face, learning some chants, just planning to go crazy,” says freshman business major Pat Doherty. Pat and his friends plan to make a CVS run to get all the supplies they need for costumes and signs.
“I’m getting hype,” says Jake Manelis, also a freshman business major. “My goal is to get on College GameDay, so I have to look as crazy as possible.”
Students are already able to start camping out at the Dome, but most are a little more casual about their plans for the game, going for the social aspect and are taking time to hang out with their friends beforehand.
“I have to go out and get all my beat Duke apparel,” says freshman information management and technology major Dayna Gelman. “I am going to make posters with my new Greek member class and we are going to get hyped!”
Of course, due to the recent post-season ban Kent announced in light of a NCAA investigation, this game is one of the last chances for fans to truly appreciate the Syracuse basketball team, even though this season has been a little less than stellar.
“I’m getting more Syracuse stuff, but I’m honestly just mentally preparing for a possible loss,” says freshman public relations major Greta Rosenblum. Bummer.
Photo by Adham Elsharkawi