Keating incites school spirit

By Chris Furnari

Maybe it's just the excitement of the first week of school, but for the first time in four years, I'm proud to be a Bronco.

Perhaps it is just the abundance of freshmen trying to experience the spectrum of college life in the first few days that has led me to this conclusion, but support for Bronco athletics is at an all-time high.

And though new-student participation certainly has its role, I believe this enthusiasm is founded in a single individual in the athletic department.

Since his arrival, Kerry Keating has become the new face of Bronco athletics. At a welcome rally, Keating challenged students to fill the seats at Bronco sporting events, and announced his unwavering commitment to making the Broncos synonymous with winning.

On two occasions now -- the rally and the women's volleyball game -- Keating has sworn that if students bring the fans and the energy, he will hound the athletic administration for increased student seating.

Keating's message seems to have taken effect. The crowd support at Friday's volleyball game was incredible as the Broncos easily handled San Jose State in a 3-0 victory.

Critics may attribute Friday night's draw to the $1,000 giveaway at the game, but if that's the case, can anyone explain a packed Buck Shaw Stadium the following night for the men's soccer match versus UCLA?

The Broncos upset the Bruins in an overtime thriller, a game that may prove to be the most exciting of the year.

Perhaps those same critics could explain the multitudes of students flocking to the Malley Center pool for the men's water polo game earlier in the week. Oh yeah, the Broncos won that game as well.

Call me an optimist, but is the recent outburst in school spirit helping to produce Bronco victories?

Sure, Keating may have lofty goals -- becoming a consistent NCAA tournament basketball team is no easy task, and filling the entire lower bowl of Leavey Center with students will take some work.

But if there is one man that can get the job done, it's Keating.

Keating shows his dedication to the Broncos in his personal investment in other teams' success. Not only does Keating encourage students to attend sporting events, he does it himself.

If you asked me, Santa Clara is lucky to have such a dedicated coach walking the campus. Maybe students should take note.