By Emily Petillon
Managing Editor
and Natasha Brunstein
Contributing Writer
The recent rise in school spirit on the Mira Costa campus has had a positive effect on the attitude of Costa athletic teams and overall campus morale.
Over the course of the semester, school spirit has increased dramatically, most likely as a result of this year’s athletic teams’ success and Associated Student Body’s vigor. An increasing number of students have been attending sporting events, many as a part of the “Rage Cage,” a student fan section known for its rowdy and intimidating cheering. This phenomenon will help strengthen the Costa community and push the school to continue to produce excellent results both on and off the field.
Despite a history of superior academic records and high-performing sports teams, Costa’s student body typically demonstrates mediocre school spirit. Mira Costa Vice Principal Ian Drummond said that in the past, he’s seen students take a cavalier attitude toward the continued success of Costa students. But school spirit is currently at the highest point he’s seen in the past 15 years.
Campus Morale Commissioner Lia Sepanek believes that the rise in spirit can be attributed to ASB’s decision to refocus its efforts on convincing students to attend athletic games and to wear green and gold every Friday. She has noticed as students see their friends participate in Costa spirit days, they are motivated to partake in the promotion of school spirit as well.
Many Costa athletes believe that the contribution of an enthusiastic audience at games is unparalleled in raising the team’s energy. According to varsity football player junior Mac Power, hearing hundreds of fans supporting the football team invigorates the players to win not just for themselves and their team, but also for Mira Costa as a whole. With a passionate crowd, the team feels responsible to earn a victory for the fans who are dedicated enough to show their support. A strong fan base helps to motivate players to rise above the other team in the spirit of representing their school.
The absence of a lively crowd is also felt by athletes. Cross country runner sophomore Carolyn Padden said that it is especially difficult to get excited before a big race when there aren’t any Costa fans at the meet. Because cross country races are never held at Mira Costa, the fan base is virtually nonexistent, making it difficult for athletes to feel like they are working to represent their school. ASB should focus its efforts on sports with smaller fan bases, in addition to more popular teams, in order to give these teams a boost in morale.
ASB President senior Kirk La believes that a campus with an involved student body is more entertaining for the teachers, students and community. In addition to the effect spirit has on sports teams, it also creates a sense of community and support amongst the students and faculty.
In order to sustain this influx in school spirit, students should try to cheer on Costa athletes at all sporting competitions, make an effort to participate in ASB-organized activities, such as school dances, and attend more performing arts events, like band concerts and school plays.
By continuing this growth in Costa spirit, students may create a ripple effect that could encompass the entire school population.
Costa students’ effort to contribute to school spirit illustrates their desire to better their high school experience and to celebrate Costa’s successes.
Leave a Reply