EDITORIAL: This one is for the fans
College football season is finally here.
Half of today's edition is a preview the 2016-17 football season. Each day we produce objective, accurate journalism about Central Michigan University – how it spends its money, research projects, the academic pursuits of students and varsity sports.
Many of us enjoy following collegiate sports. Today – for the only time this semester in this space – we are speaking to you as student media and Chippewa football fans. Today our intention is to showcase a team that has seen its fair share of ups and downs, and how they’ll grow during the 2016-17 season.
Tonight at 7 p.m., the Chippewas open their season against Presbyterian.
Chippewa pride kicks off now
We understand that being a Chippewa football fan is a labor of love. The Kelly/Shorts Stadium stands aren’t always full. We may lose to a big name opponent, or worse, a team we should have beaten.
This editorial is dedicated to you, the faithful fans who make up the regular audience at CMU football games.
You bleed Maroon and Gold, in good times and bad. You truly are the team’s 12th man.
Thank you for your dedication.
The Mid-American Conference will never be the Big Ten, especially as it pertains to game day culture.
It’s a reality we face as a regional state university, but we’ve seen a noticeable improvement in fan engagement.
Much of that has to do with the hiring of John Bonamego, our second-year head coach who spent his debut season battling cancer.
We’re happy you are well, coach.
On day one, Bonamego charmed the CMU community with a heavy dose of school spirit and unbridled enthusiasm.
“If you’re a Chippewa, I’m your coach,” said Bonamego at his first press conference. His message was refreshing. It was a far cry from how previous Head Coach Dan Enos handled his job as a diplomat for CMU.
“Bono,” as he’s affectionately referred to, regularly interacts with the various constituencies of our campus community. He eats lunch with students when he can. He shakes hands with alumni before games. He attended this year’s Special Olympics of Michigan Summer Games, sharing time with athletes and their families.
In another moment of outreach, Bonamego presented a $1,000 check in his team’s name to a member of the CMU Marching Chips band. Bono did this at a practice – unannounced and without fanfare – to recognize Clarkston senior Alex Markarian’s commitment to the group.
Bonamego is an ambassador. He cares deeply about every person attending and working at CMU.
We’re happy you’re here, coach.
While we celebrate football today, we’d be remiss if we didn’t make a plea for students to attend the game. The weather forecast is great. Tickets are free for students. You can make new friends, and get free CMU gear.
CMU football is more than just a sports program. It’s tradition. It’s pride. A chance to get fired up about the university experience and all it has to offer.
We hope to see you at the game.
Fire up, Chips!
