Spartan Spirit Lacks Without a Football Team

          The Florida State Seminoles and the Miami Hurricanes were all victims of the athleticism, skill, and intensity of the University of Tampa football team; over 35 years ago that is. Up until the 1974 season, the University of Tampa had one of the best football teams in the area. However, despite the success of the team on the field, it was sucking the bank dry and bringing the school into debt, therefore it had to be cut from the institution.
          For the last 35 years, UT students have been forced to find alternative football fixes to satisfy their competitive sides. When asked about the lack of football here at UT, junior Alisha Veta replied, "It's not that bad. I mean, I wish that there was a team here because I really do think it would bring more school spirit, but it's only a quick drive to go to USF games. Even just tailgating there is a good time." She is one of many students who have become supporters of the local USF Bulls football program.
          Then there are students who don't get the same joy out of cheering on the Bulls. Sophomore Jillian Medugno says, "I think USF games are fun, but you just don’t get the same pleasure of knowing that you are cheering on YOUR school. I think if UT had a football team, it would bring the school together more and we would have so much more school spirit." That is another factor that comes into play. It seems that going out to support your team creates a bond that no other sport can. Tailgating in the parking lot hours before the game, and celebrating for hours after a win is part of the college experience. "Football is a national college sport, everyone loves to watch football. Soccer and basketball are fun, but there aren’t nearly as many supporters. It’s just not the same," Medugno said.
     The University of Tampa has had many chances to bring back the football program, and yet we are still without a team. Former player, Rick Thomas said,""Dropping football was one of the worst business decisions UT ever made. We have a great base of support for football that won't die and won't go away. When we had football, the team belonged to the community. It can work"
     Maybe one day, we will all be able to pack into Raymond James Stadium, formerly the Tampa Stadium to cheer on our Spartan football team. But for now, we are all left to support the Bulls, and our favorite NFL teams.