School spirit at Rider needs a reset

By Terrell Munford

At a university, school spirit is more than just wearing the school colors. It is the energy in the stands, the pride students carry on campus and the sense of belonging that connects a student body. At Rider, that spirit exists but it feels quieter than ever before. If Rider wants to strengthen its campus culture and student experience, its school spirit needs a reset.

On paper, Rider has everything needed to build a passionate community. The Broncs compete at the Division I level in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference, giving students the opportunity to support high-level college athletics right on their own campus. Yet, so often, game days come and go without the excitement or student turnout expected. The seats inside the Alumni Gym are filled more by families and community members than by students who walk past the building every day.

This is not about blaming students. It is about recognizing that school spirit does not happen automatically; it must be cultivated. Many Rider students are commuters, balancing academics, work and responsibilities off campus. Others may not feel a strong connection to campus life beyond the classroom. Without intentional efforts to bring students together, it becomes easy for campus pride to fade into the abyss.

The effects of this lack of spirit extend beyond athletics. School pride influences the overall college experience. It shapes friendships, creates traditions and gives students a shared identity. When students show up to support their peers, whether in sports, performances or campus events, it strengthens the sense of community. When that presence is missing, campus life can feel a tad bit fragmented. 

Part of the issue lies in visibility and engagement. Many students are simply not aware of when games or events are happening, or they personally do not feel invited to attend. Promotion through social media, student organizations and campus leaders could be stronger and more consistent. School spirit should feel inclusive, not limited to athletes or a small group of dedicated fans. 

But the responsibility does not solely fall on the shoulders of the institution. Students themselves play a critical role in shaping campus culture. School spirit begins with small actions, like attending a game with friends, wearing Rider gear on campus or simply choosing to participate rather than observe from a distance. When students show up, others follow, because the energy is contagious. 

Rider can also take active steps to make school spirit more visible and exciting. Theme nights, giveaways, student-led cheering sections and collaborations with campus organizations can help transform games into social media events rather than just athletic competitions. Orientation programs and first-year experiences should emphasize the importance of campus involvement early, helping students get out of their comfort zone and build pride from the moment they arrive on campus. 

More importantly, Rider must create traditions that students look forward to and feel proud to be a part of. Traditions are what turn attendance into loyalty and loyalty into identity. When students feel connected to something larger than themselves, their college experience becomes more impactful and meaningful. This reset is not about forcing school spirit, it’s about rebuilding it. Rider has the foundation, the teams and the community. What it needs now is a renewed energy and participation from both the institution and its students. 

College is a short chapter in life, but school pride lasts long after graduation. Years from now, students will not remember the classes they took, but they will remember the moments they shared, the games they attended with family and friends and the pride they felt of being a part of Rider.

School spirit at Rider is not gone. It is just waiting to be reignited.

Terrell Munford is a junior journalism major