Wildcat fans show their school spirit at the first football game of the year versus Northwest Missouri State Aug. 27. HEATHER LEIPHART Staff Photographer

The level of school spirit at football games varies from student to student. Some like to watch and observe quietly, while others believe it to be their duty to be the loudest fan in the crowd. However, the general consensus seems to be when it comes to purple and white spirit, you can’t get enough.
From the season-opening national telecast to last weekend’s cross-conference affair with Texas A&M-Commerce, Wildcat fans had numerous avenues to display their Wildcat pride in the 2009 season. Sophomore youth and family ministry major Evan Greathouse is one of the Wildcats’ most spirited fans. Greathouse tries to find new ways to show his spirit each week, using wigs, paint and costumes, among other props.
“It helps get people into the whole spirit of football games,” Greathouse said. “It makes things more exciting. I think us being as crazy as we are opens up opportunities for others to be crazy.”
Junior exercise science major Jordan Hanson, from Mililani, Hawaii, said although spirit is high, the fan base could stand to be a little larg

Evan Greathouse, sophomore youth and family ministries major from Abilene, expresses frustration at Saturday's Halloween game. HEATHER LEIPHART Staff Photographer

er and a little louder. Regardless of numbers, though, zealous fans like Greathouse draw the attention of other students.
“I love the costumes they wear when they dress up,” said Tabita Escabedo, junior engineering physics major from O’Donnell. “Those are hardcore fans. Even when we’re losing, they cheer like we’re up 30 points.”
Students’ Association President Charles Gaines fully supports the Wildcats’ energetic fan base. Gaines and the rest of SA are trying to do their part to get the ACU student body involved. SA set up face-painting booths at last weekend’s games, and Gaines said he anticipates similar promotions at other sporting events in the future.
“I think the students do a great job,” Gaines said. “We try to encourage that kind of excitement. SA is trying to continue the enthusiasm that ACU students already have.”
ACU students likely will not have another chance to see the Wildcats at Shotwell Stadium this season, so fans will have to shift their enthusiasm to other teams. ACU basketball tips off this month, and the volleyball and soccer teams are preparing to enter postseason play. No matter the venue, ACU fans are sure to turn out to support their beloved Wildcats.