MOSCOW, Idaho — For the first time in school history, the University of Idaho is celebrating a milestone in Vandal athletics, as both the men’s and women’s basketball programs secured a spot in the NCAA tournament.
Students are embracing the moment with pride and enthusiasm. “I always thought it’s going to be the big schools and stuff. It’s really amazing that the school I go to is going (to March Madness),” freshman student Cooper Irwin said. “So I think it’s just kind of creates a sense of pride and I’m just really proud of them.”
Some students experience the energy from behind the scenes, a senior who works with the arena security is overjoyed.
“It’s been super cool to get to be a part of the staff, they help make these games come to life, and truly bring the community to the arena as well, on almost a weekly basis, as all across the season,” Andi Lands said.
The campus atmosphere reflects the dedication of students and fans alike.
“This would be crazy, I’m a freshman so my first year, they both go and I thought it was just amazing,” Irwin said.
Student-athletes say the moment carries significance for all of Vandals’ athletics.
“It’s huge, not just for our enrollment but really getting Idaho on the map,” senior women’s golf Sofia Lippiello said. “Showing students this is a great place to be for athletics and really drawing in new talent for the next coming years.”
As Vandal athletics enters this historic period, students say the excitement is only growing with community pride and school spirit reaching new heights.
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