I've always loved Monmouth. However, it hasn't been widely recognized. A year ago, I'd proudly say, "I go to Monmouth University," only to get the reply, "I've never heard of that school." Now, without introduction it's, "You go to Monmouth, right? That's awesome."
Granted, there are a number of things that make Monmouth well-deserved of praise, however, it's impressive that one team can change the perception and overall atmosphere of an institution for the better. And that team is none other than the Monmouth men's basketball team.
Monmouth basketball has left sports fans speechless. Nov. 13, UCLA. Nov. 26, Notre Dame. Nov. 29, USC. That's how it all started. But the wins didn't stop there. Dec. 13, Monmouth students packed the MAC for a win against Wagner. Dec. 15, Georgetown. Dec. 20, Rutgers. Dec. 23, Cornell. Jan. 15, Iona. They just don't stop. One win after another. Monmouth basketball caught everyone's attention.
It's no secret that before this, school spirit at Monmouth was sorely lacking. Coming from a highly spirited high school, not having that same feeling in college was upsetting. I, like several others, wanted the feeling of anticipation before a big game, the expectation to dress head to toe in navy blue and white, the total loss of voice due to screaming after every play -- that devotion and pride for your school's sports teams. That's what I wanted. This year, Monmouth basketball sparked that spirit inside all of us. We got our mojo back.
I am emotionally invested in this team. I have to see Monmouth when they are playing, and if I can't be in front of a TV, I check the ESPN app religiously. Chris Brady and Josh James were in one of my classes, and every time I see them on the big screen, I scream bloody murder. I know them. They are on TV. This is so cool.
This team is unbelievable. They have so much to celebrate. From the bench's planned celebrations that took the nation by storm to Pillari's epic three pointers at the MAC on January 18, or Robinson's 1,000th career point milestone on his home court to Seaborn's title of MAAC Rookie of the Week -- or Jones' number of buckets to keep scores high to the perfect swish of the net when Stewart hits those threes. How about Brady's game saving rebounds and James' numerous crucial assists? The can do attitude of all players is admirable and incredibly heartwarming. The recognition is well deserved -- this team has worked so hard to get to where they are.
Monmouth is on the map. Thank you King Rice, the Athletics Department, and of course, the Monmouth basketball team. They truly are one team with one dream. Thanks to these guys, people know us. And it's awesome.
Fly, hawks. Fly.
