by Ericka Simpson, Triangle staff writer
Bryan College students roared with excitement as they gathered to watch their school’s volleyball team defend its title as the number one team in the Appalachian Athletic Conference.
Lions fans cheer on the Volleyball team with rigor and excitement.
“At each game, the intensity of the fans can be felt by the players on the court,” Head Volleyball Coach Leo Sayles said.
The number of students attending the volleyball matches has increased this year, according to Sayles. He said that some matches in previous years were well attended by the student body, but this year has been different.
“In the overall matches this year, a higher number of students are coming to watch consistently,” said Sayles.
He has observed a larger portion of non-athletes attending the matches. The volleyball team’s schedule does not conflict as much with the soccer schedule this year. This allows the soccer players and more of the student body to support the volleyball team.
“I like that the schedules are different so that I can support the volleyball team and still play on the soccer team,” said sophomore Casey Northrup.
Sophomore Katie Shaffer said she has attended more volleyball games this year because of the lessened conflict with the soccer schedule.
“The atmosphere of the volleyball games is a lot more energetic,” Shaffer said.
According to Sayles, the support of the fans has helped the volleyball team in its success. The intensity of the cheering adds “an extra something,” which improves the players’ focus,
“Seeing everyone decked out and cheering loud for us makes it easier for us to play at a high level,” sophomore libero Jessica Jones said.
At the match against Union College, a referee asked the fans to stop using the drums they had brought to support the Lady Lions. Sayles said this was because the use of instruments must be an ensemble or a sanctioned, designated pep band.
“The drums will be allowed if cleared before the game and only during non-playing periods so they are not distracting to the players. No other noisemakers are permitted,” Sayles said.
“The players are the first to say that the drums add focus,” Sayles said.
When the drums were prohibited at the game against Union, it took the players awhile to find their rhythm again. “A supportive cheering section adds to the players’ focus and helps the team perform well,” said Sayles.
“The new percussion adds a nice touch,” said Jones.
According to Jones, the volleyball players love having a supportive cheering section that is focused on cheering the Bryan team and not degrading the other team.
“The fans are willing to listen to the referees and do what is necessary to properly support the volleyball team,” said Sayles.
“We tremendously appreciate the support we receive,” Sayles said. “Keep coming and keep bringing your voices.”
