In my day at Mason we had a student newspaper that covered games. The only way to find out game scores when I didn't attend games was to pick up that paper and read it.
My point is that I was engaged and interested in the team's outcomes. Now, there are information sources everywhere as to game scores, team success, conference standings, highlights, etc. Yet, engagement is anemic. Is the problem information overload?
I can't fathom there being a lack of interest in spectator sports when other teams can gather fairly good student support. Are fans, and particularly students, REALLY entertained better at other schools' men's basketball events than Mason's?
When I became enamored with attending Mason men's basketball games it was originally because the team was hot and word-of-mouth got me to a game. During the game, the atmosphere was tense, but raucus—especially in the student section. I continued to attend games even through the lean years because I liked supporting the team with my voice and clapped hands.
So, for me Mason fandom was being in the atmosphere of the game. A hot team for me started it and I stayed for the experience. Currently, we don't have either. I have no solution to offer other than win baby, win.
gomason.com
