Evelyn Perkins, sports editor

This year, Augsburg athletic administration has started a new tradition called “All-In Games,” in which each team chooses one home contest in its season, and all other student-athletes are required to attend. In addition, all students get into games free and can win free T-shirts, gift cards and other prizes throughout the game. These All-In Games are intended to increase support for athletic events and build camaraderie among students across campus.

On Friday, Oct. 2, Augsburg’s volleyball team hosted its All-In Game against Gustavus. From the start, the game had a loud, high-energy atmosphere, with many students and fans cheering for the Auggies. Feeding off the crowd’s energy, the Auggies jumped out to an early 6-1 lead in the first set and won it decisively, 25-18. The gym was nearly deafening as Aloaha Ricke went in for the winning kill off an assist from Taliah Triggs. The second set started evenly, with the Auggies trailing 7-6 before the Gusties scored five straight and later led 15-7. Augsburg fought back and came within 15-14, and it remained even until the Gusties prevailed in set two, 25-22. The third set was more of the same back and forth, with it being tied 14-14 and then again at 20-20 before the Gusties eventually pulled away, winning the third set 25-22 and the fourth set 25-21. Although the Auggies did not come out victorious, the match was hard-fought and remained highly competitive throughout.

After the game, I sat down with senior setter Jovial King and senior right side Teagan Walter. When I asked their thoughts on All-In Games, they all agreed they really enjoy them. Walter added, “It’s nice to be able to connect with other athletes over the shared experience of the night and overlap with sports teams, especially the ones we share a season with, because we’re able to go and support them as a team.”

When I asked how increased student support impacts the game environment, King said, “The energy creates excitement for a more fun environment.” Walter added, “Exactly, and it’s exciting intensity instead of intimidating intensity.” Throughout the interview, we talked about how one of the hard parts of being Division III athletes is not necessarily being accustomed to playing in front of big crowds. However, All-In Games draw extremely large crowds. I asked how they mentally prepared for having more people in the stands, and King said there are positives and negatives: “You’re under the spotlight more; it can add pressure, but it can also be a positive pressure and energy. It’s about how you handle it.”

All in all, both the volleyball team and the student body looked forward to the All-In Game and are excited to continue showing up and supporting one another throughout the rest of the school year.