With the fall semester underway, students are always trying to find ways to relax, eliminate stress and get away from the pressures of school.

Here’s a simple solution: go to an NIU athletic event.

It’s obvious most students know about the football team. There’s a reason why it is the most attended event among students: Frankly, it’s the largest stadium. But there are other great sports for you to go and check out.

This season has the possibility to be great for both men’s and women’s soccer teams and the volleyball team, and they need fans too.

For those of you who don’t know, or any money-wary students for that matter, all athletic events are free for NIU students. That eliminates the excuse of not having any money.

And how about the new track and field facility? It’s not that far away (located right behind the football field to the west) and deserves to have its stands filled for home matches.

Victor E. Court in the Convocation Center is a fun-filled, loud environment to root on the volleyball team.

If you are still not convinced, think of it this way. Look at what your extra fees to NIU go to. If you are a full-time student on campus, you are paying $210.84 in athletic fees. You have already basically paid to attend these athletic events.

Or how about the simple idea of showing off your Huskie spirit? That term definitely extends beyond going out and buying an NIU hoodie or T-shirt. Why not go out and cheer on your fellow students as they compete for your school?

Going to NIU athletic events is also a great way to meet new people. You already share a common interest with anyone there because, well, you are there to watch the same game or match. Strike up a conversation about what’s going on in the game.

Or, if you still need some incentive, how about giveaways?

Most of the NIU athletic events feature some sort of giveaway. Football games have a 50-50 raffle and basketball has T-shirt tosses. Plus football is going to go even further with their giveaways this season. All the more reason to go out to the games and possibly get some free stuff.

There’s a common thread between the normal student and the student athlete, which is being a student. Go out and cheer on your fellow students, your school and show your Huskie pride the way you should.

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