Bucky speaks his mind

By A.J. Perry

After cheering at over 350 Santa Clara athletic contests for the past four years, I know that what I will miss most is the camaraderie and passion found among Bronco fans and student-athletes alike.

I developed my passion for Bronco athletics from a former Bronco runner, Kevin Edwards. Edwards embodied what it meant to be a Bronco fan, wearing a flag-cape and shouting cheers at almost every game.

Behind the cheers was a message. Edwards reminded us that we share a stake in the success of our teams.

As a former athlete, I know what it feels like to wear Bronco colors -- to train to the point of exhaustion and to play with the "style" and "class" that former Bronco football coach Pat Malley said the interlocking letters of our logo represent.

I am the outgoing vice president of Ruff Riders, and occasionally "Bucky," because I believe in the importance of keeping the Bronco spirit alive.

I consider myself to be a "Broncoholic" because I recognize the commitment that our own student-athletes bring to the classroom and competition.

We should acknowledge our fellow classmates' successes and sacrifices by letting them know that all of their hard work is not overlooked.

Many times the best way to do this is by attending a non-marquee game. Watching your classmate nutmeg around three defenders in an afternoon soccer game or your lab partner serve as someone else's partner in doubles tennis is exciting.

You do not have to be an athlete to be a Bronco. The sacrifices made by students in the performing arts, club sports or academic competition are equally admirable and time consuming.

Whether you wear the maroon and white uniform or simply exercise in your Ruff Riders T-shirt, we will all use the same competitive edge that we learned in the classroom, dorm room or playing field to change the world.

In his convocation address to the university, Steve Nash declared that "Santa Clara is taking over the world."

Through the energy we devote to doing what we love, all of us will change the world through our actions and travels.

I hope all of you can take some time to promote school spirit by uniting to appreciate and take pride in one another's achievements.

For myself, the best way to do this is cheering with hundreds of fans for a Santa Clara victory.