I was a elementary school student crossing guard and they took us to the UofU as a reward. They lost and I forgot about them. I left the country on a mission after LaVell’s first year and really had no awareness of the change or of college football for that matter. I attended the UofU for one year to finish my degree (long story there)and they lost all but one game. Boring! That fall I was at a party with friends and the television was on and everyone turned to watch BYU beat one of the Arizona schools by throwing the ball. By then everyone was aware that BYU had changed the game and throwing it was they way to win. I was hooked. My wife and I got tickets to the Y games from her brother playing Basketball for the Y and we we’re hooked deeper. Season ticket holders for 38 years. Despite all the claims that bad things don’t happen at my alma mater we have never had a good experience there. What I appreciate is we seldom run in to drunks at LVE stadium. People don’t swear (usually and get stared down when they do) A majority are living family centered lives you want to raise your kids around. And most of the athletes are really trying to live by the honor code. I have issues with the honor code office doing more than calling someone who gets out of compliance and warning them that they are jeopardizing their education and their team status and then letting their ecclesiastical leader or coach handle it from there.
As for fans I don’t care if the team wins or loses but that they are working hard as the coach wants, are examples I can point to for my children and grandchildren to follow and they respect the opportunities given them. The coaches have to the best examples, it’s on them to get the best out of the team. I attend Volleyball, Basketball, Soccer, Rugby, Football and track and field. I go to see the growth and effort. God doesn’t care about the winners any more than the losers. He does care about kindness, effort, growth, and sportsmanship. I go because the Y represents the best among those who try. Others also try and I respect that. What I am disappointed in are those that think any other way is okay if you don’t get caught, whatever team that maybe.