FanSpeak 10/24/04

Where's the crowd?

YOU KNOW the Southeast Missouri State athletic program is going downhill when only 7,112 show up for the football home opener on family weekend. It also happened to be the OVC opener for Southeast, and those who did attend saw an exciting contest. Hopefully, they'll make a return visit to Houck Stadium in the near future. In comparison, Eastern Illinois University drew 9,320 for its home opener and 10,124 for its family weekend game. The Panthers finished 4-8 in 2003 and finished sixth in the OVC. This year, EIU was picked to finish seventh. Someone please explain how EIU, which is located in a community with a population of only 20,000, can outdraw Southeast at the gate.

Too many weapons

HOW MANY more bullets does the Southeast football team have left? Every game they manage to shoot themselves in the foot at least three times.

Soccer stands out

IN CASE sports fans haven't noticed, the women's soccer team at Southeast Missouri State has been a bright spot in the athletic department the past couple of years. Once again, the Otahkians will be contenders in the OVC tournament with a shot to qualify for the NCAA tournament for the first time ever. It's understandable the soccer team probably will never bring in as much revenue as the football or basketball teams, but coach Heather Nelson continues to produce a winner, and her team deserves some much-needed support as well.

Hooray for Rushin

FOR SEVERAL years, Chris Rushin has been the public address announcer at Houck Stadium for Southeast Missouri State football games, and he does a tremendous job.

Change more than logo

THE SOUTHEAST Missouri State athletic department is in shambles, and it's time for a change. I realize the nickname and logo will change soon, but it's time for a change.