Football Fans Reminded to Act with Respect and Dignity During Tommie-Johnnie Game

Karen Lange

Karen Lange

This Saturday, the University of St. Thomas football team plays against Saint John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota. This is one of the storied rivalries in the MIAC and NCAA Division III. We wish our team well and a great time for all fans.

As the game approaches, we ask everyone to be mindful about exercising good sports conduct, respecting all in attendance and representing our university in a positive manner. All NCAA Division III institutions are committed to encouraging “the development of sportsmanship and positive societal attitudes in all constituents, including student-athletes, coaches, administrative personnel and spectators.” In an effort to foster this environment, persons wearing clothing that is offensive or disparaging of others will not be admitted to the football game.

This year, the Saturday festivities will be followed by a much more solemn event. On Sunday, the College of Saint Benedict will host the Wetterling Family memorial in honor of Jacob on behalf of his family. In addition, the town of St. Joseph will host its annual art festival. Everyone visiting the area this weekend is asked to be respectful of the St. Joe community by  keeping the campuses and streets clean, and by showing restraint and respect for a community in grief. Read more about the Wetterling memorial online.

My colleagues at Saint John’s and Saint Benedict are sending a similar message to their students, and staff from Saint Benedict, Saint John’s and St. Thomas will be present as fans enter and throughout the game to help ensure we are creating a positive environment.

In addition, we ask that Tommies who are attending the game be mindful of their impact on our neighbors in the community while departing for and returning from the game.

We want to create a positive experience for you, our guests, parents, alumni and friends who are attending the game. We want you to cheer and support our players with positive attitudes and excitement. Show your Tommie spirit, wear purple with pride and go Tommies!

Karen M. Lange
Vice President for Student Affairs