Faculty Fans support student-athletes in the classroom and on the field

Gallaudet Cheerleaders got some extra help boosting school spirit at the home football game on Oct. 5. In the stands were five faculty members - Todd Bonheyo, Dr. Tonya Stremlau, Ryan Barlongo, Reggie Bess, and Austen Ercolino - who kicked off the newly created Faculty Fans Program by watching Gallaudet win 42-28 over Nichols College.

Bonheyo, Gallaudet's Faculty Athletics Representative, learned about a similar program at a conference last year and was inspired to bring it here. "I thought it would be great to pick a home game for each sport where faculty could come and show their support," he says. "It provides a chance for faculty to recognize the hard work student-athletes put in both in the classroom and in competition. It's also an opportunity for faculty to build relationships with student-athletes by supporting their activities outside the classroom."

Students have told him that they really appreciate seeing faculty cheer for them. "Many of our student-athletes have families who live far from Washington, D.C., so having faculty support at games means a lot to them," he adds.

In addition to the Oct. 5 event with the Football and Cheerleading teams, Faculty Fans attended a Men's Soccer team game on Oct. 16 as well as a luncheon with the Triathlon and Cross-Country teams (which don't host home games). The numbers of participating faculty are increasing with each event, and Bonheyo expects the biggest turnout yet for the Women's Volleyball team game on Oct. 23.

The Athletics Department has generously backed the program by providing free admission and food vouchers for faculty. Plus, faculty attendees were recognized for their attendance at the football game. "It was a special moment to see a thank you message for faculty fans on the scoreboard," Bonheyo says.

There are more events being planned for the upcoming winter sports season. Dates and details will be released soon!