Three weeks ago, I donned an oversized gold shirt and melted into an 18-karat student section (18 parts gold, 6 parts maroon) at the ASU football game.
In the midst of these games, overwhelming energy vibrates throughout stands. One cannot help but smile, even at the shouted obscenities that show support for our Sun Devils. And the best part is that school spirit spills into the regular week.
It is so common for students and staff to sport University gear that this practice has even been parodied in National Lampoon's 1978 "Animal House." In the movie, frat boys are shown wearing shirts that simply say "College" on them.
Now, stores are starting to copy this design. American Eagle, for example, is marketing shirts that read "community college" on the front.
"It's funny. I go to ASU, and I would buy that shirt," said Omar Zein, assistant manager and supply chain management junior.
And when it comes to buying the real deal, ASU merchandise is also popular.
Students choose to go maroon and gold for a variety of reasons.
"I like the way the shirts fit," said urban planning sophomore Joe Plotz. "School spirit is also a part of it."
Cost is also a part of it. Plotz gets his merchandise "either at the Bookstore or on Mill Avenue. It depends on the price."
One place to check out is Arizona Shorts & Sports, Inc., located at 425 S. Mill Avenue. This store caters to students by offering new merchandise.
"One of our best-sellers is a bright pink shirt that says 'Arizona State' in white writing," said manager Katie Clancy. This is mainly a hit for girls. As for guys, "[They] will go for basic designs."
Some students, on the other hand, do not have to look far for a good deal.
Bioengineering freshman Cory Fackiner owns a few ASU shirts that he received for free.
"I haven't paid for a single shirt," said Fackiner. "They were given to me," He received these items from the various organizations that he has been a part of.
Whether you purchase (or acquire) a swimsuit, basketball shorts, or a baseball cap, show your pride. You'll be more of a knockout than the ASU-Nevada game.
Reach the reporter at: stephanie.naufel@asu.edu.
