Ever since Samford introduced college athletics, students have been there to cheer on the Bulldogs. But this year, the Red Sea is changing—and not in the way one would expect.
According to Jackson Gibree, Director of Marketing, Campus & Community Engagement and Fan Experience, the Red Sea is now student-run and student-led.
“Students are now the ones making the decisions on what is going on in the section,” Gibree said. “The goal is to give students ownership of something they can pass down.”
And students have indeed responded; the Red Sea’s new team of executives, led by President David Guy and Vice President Caiden Nadalo, is already working hard to bring their goals to fruition.
“We have two main goals: get students to the games and keep them there,” Guy said. “The biggest way we’ll do that is by having more incentives: more giveaways, more theme nights, more freebies like T-shirts and rally towels, and also the Greek Cup.”
The Greek Cup, according to Guy, is primarily an attendance-based competition held during basketball season. When students check into games with their university ID, scanners will mark their Greek affiliation and keep a record. Halftime competitions will be held to earn additional points, along with several larger competitions and social media challenges as well. Every sorority, fraternity, and NPHC chapter is eligible to participate.
“There will be a $3,000 cash prize for the winning Greek chapter,” Guy said. “And they can use that money however they want.”
These efforts, and many more, are what set this year of Samford athletics apart. The Red Sea is not merely an organization; it is an embodiment of the entire university.
“We’re changing the narrative, not just for a one-season project,” Guy said. “It will take time to grow, but the only way we can grow is up.”
To aid in the growth, all students need to do is show up to games. In doing so, they will not only be supporting Samford’s athletic programs; they will be aiding in the Red Sea’s cultivation on campus. And, potentially, earning the title of first-ever champions of the Greek Cup.
“I think students should anticipate a great environment that rivals the best mid major schools,” Gibree said. “But it takes the student body showing up to make that happen. They can experience fun, build memories, and create traditions that make Samford an even more special place than it already is.”
Follow @samfordredsea on Instagram to watch the Red Sea grow, and stay up-to-date on the latest competitions and news.
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