One of UCSD’s most festive occasions commences this week, as the 15th annual Spirit Night takes hold of RIMAC Arena. The event begins with the Spirit Rally on Feb. 19 at Price Center, followed by UCSD’s version of homecoming. On Feb. 20, Triton basketball teams host San Francisco State in a women’s and men’s doubleheader starting at 5:30 p.m. A fireworks show at RIMAC Field is scheduled to follow the men’s game.
‘Spirit Night is always one of the athletic department’s most eagerly anticipated celebrations,’ Associate Athletics Director Ryan Hall said. ‘It brings out students from all six colleges and is by far our most attended sporting event of the season. It’s been a thrill to watch our student body exhibit such Triton pride at this event the past few years, and we expect another tremendous showcase.’
Last year, Spirit Night had its most successful turnout in history, with 3,906 spectators attending the festivities. This year, Hall projects that attendance could surpass 4,000.
‘The growth of this event has been tremendous to watch,’ Hall said. ‘Each and every year, our student body seems to be more and more interested in supporting our athletic program, which has made this one of the most exciting nights of the year.’
Revelle College snagged the Spirit Night Trophy at last year’s event, edging out the other colleges in eight spirit events, ranging from a game of musical chairs to attendance and spirit at the games. In this year’s competition, Eleanor Roosevelt College (12 points) has jumped to an early lead, with Revelle College (10 points) and Thurgood Marshall College (seven points) trailing behind.
Due to the women’s baskeball team’s tremendous success, this Spirit Night could rise to even greater heights. Senior forward Michelle Osier and the Triton women might seize the of the California Collegiate Athletic Association title with a win over the Gators.
‘We really appreciate the opportunity to play in front of a packed crowd, and Spirit Night gives us that chance,’ Osier said.
At 22-3 and an amazing 15-1 in CCAA play, the No. 12 Tritons are in the midst of one of the program’s best years. Their quest for another league title gives fans at RIMAC a reason to get hyped.
Although the Triton men have not had as much success this season (13-9, 10-6 CCAA), they are coming off a victory over formerly first-place Cal State San Bernardino. The Tritons will attempt to push their momentum through the Gators game on Friday night.
Readers can contact Neil Joshi at [email protected].