Story by Jordan Reining | Contributing Writer
Photos by Reagan Carter | Photographer
Students attended the annual Blue Zoo Bash on Friday, Sept. 16 to kick off family weekend ahead of the first home football game.
The bash was held in the recreation center’s parking lot, and is hosted by Blue Zoo, the student section, along with SPARE and campus rec. Each group gets together and starts planning in June; however, it really depends on when family weekend is set, according Blue Zoo president to Sawyer Roberts.
Unity is an important aspect of Middle Tennessee State University’s campus life. Students and faculty alike both appreciate the community they have gained at MTSU.
Students and their families had the opportunity to climb a rock wall, make stuffed animals and take a picture with a National Guard vehicle.
Kelsey Dillard, a senior, transferred to MTSU last fall.
“It’s just a fun time, you know, just to get together with your friends and have community out here with people who are like you and unlike you,” Dillard said.
President Sidney McPhee also attended the event with his wife, walking around and talking with students and parents.
“I think it’s an excellent example of school spirit and it’s something that MTSU is really known for as a caring university and even though we are 20,000 plus we do not behave and act like a big campus,” said McPhee.
MTSU’s Band of Blue marching band had their first performance of the year at the bash. They were accompanied by the dance team and the cheerleaders.
Garret Noble, a member of the band, spoke about the energy the performance brings to the crowd.
“We’ve been spending days just working constantly to make sure people can be entertained,” Noble said, “(and) to just feel that kind of energy being given off was very satisfying.”
The energy built up from the bash prepares students for the game the next day. The Blue Zoo encourages every student to go support the team and have fun.
The Blue Raiders’ first home game was against Tennessee State University, and many students that went to the bash planned on going to the game.
Freshman Aubrey Bonds attended the bash with friends and was looking forward to the game.
“I’m really looking forward to seeing the student section and just seeing what they’re all about, it’s really cool to see a big student section just support their team,” said Bonds.
The Blue Zoo bash went on from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m., bringing together family and friends to have fun.
To contact Lifestyles Editor Ethan Pickering, email lifestyles@mtsusidelines.com.
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