Walk into any of Marist’s home sporting events and you will notice a lack of student support. Despite what the reason may be, Marist athletics is working interminably to fill the empty seats with energetic and enthusiastic students.
“When students show up it creates a great atmosphere. As the students get involved it forces the community members in the other sections to get involved as well,” said Andy Alongi. Alongi, Assistant Athletics Director for External Affairs, is in charge of all marketing and sponsorship efforts for the athletics department in support of all 23 Division 1 programs.
For years it has been an ongoing effort of the athletic department to effectively promote home games to the student body. They have tested out several different methods and continue to generate new ideas. The attendance has not reached where they would like it to be, but it is described as a work in process.