Warde Manuel and Mark Hollis plead for "civility and respect" by fans.
The two Universities involved in the upcoming game seem concerned enough about unruly fan behavior that the two Athletic Directors (and also the 2 University Presidents) released joint letters expressing those concerns.
Presented without comment:
To the fans, families, and friends of our two great universities in our great state,
On Saturday, October 7, our two programs will meet for the 110th time in our storied rivalry, and for the first time the game will kick off at night.
While both Michigan and Michigan State hope to come away with a win, the best aspect of this series is how it brings the entire state together. Families, classrooms, and offices throughout the state of Michigan will be "divided," hoping for their schools to bring home the Paul Bunyan Trophy and yes, bragging rights for the next year.
With the kick-off in primetime, both schools will share the national spotlight. After the game, each facet will be dissected and analyzed by many. Let's make sure the analysis is all about the game.
Our two universities can show that civility and respect can be a hallmark of not only college sports but what we need to strive for in our society.
Our institutions have high expectations of student-athletes, coaches and staff and how they serve our communities. We share a steadfast commitment to represent our schools with class and dignity as participants, students and members of our respective communities.
This weekend will be a time of togetherness, celebration, and competition.
On behalf of both institutions, we invite you all to represent yourself and your favorite side in a manner befitting our proud communities.
Sincerely,
Warde Manuel & Mark Hollis
October 5th, 2017 at 11:39 PM ^
"the Dantonio era was a house built on the sand of a flagging Big 10."
Excellent, I'm not worthy!
October 5th, 2017 at 3:31 PM ^
The environment at this game is going to be fun. I don't understand why anyone is worried. I've been to many Michigan/MSU game and there's always people too drunk regardless of the time. It won't be a big deal.
October 5th, 2017 at 3:50 PM ^
HEY Hey hey....everyone relax. Also, Fuck Michigan State.
October 5th, 2017 at 4:26 PM ^
October 5th, 2017 at 8:05 PM ^
October 5th, 2017 at 10:01 PM ^
and am still, when I was a UM student - I don't think it is a big deal to remind people in a place of higher learning to act with logic and not emotion.
Now, about our significant others.....
Go Blue
October 5th, 2017 at 10:12 PM ^
I want to punish MSU. But if it comes to pass that MSU blocks a put and runs back a touch down in the final seconds, I will be sad and disappointed. Life, however, will go on. As JH says, "Steel in the spine." I feel sorry for MSU fans. They have had a lot of success lately and it is not enough for thier contentment. That is not a fun place to enhabit. Pissed if you win, becuase UM still exists, and pissed when you lose because it was, some sour grapes non-sense.
I live in the great state of Texas now. I used to compare A&M and UT to MSU and UM but now i no longer do. A&M people can co-exist with UT people and there are no lectures on how "not to think your better than the other." When A&M wins they shit talk and vice-versa. MSU has a psychosis that is unhealthy. If you win, do some shit talking, etc. Everyone loves heated sports talk. Dont, however, manifest it into un Us vs. Them that impacts your day-to-day life. Its a game played by student atheletes. Get some perspective. Your University is a fine research institustion (not as good as UM, but, hey, what school is). Use your degree to do great things. When you are done with a great days work, I'll meet you at the bar and buy your a drink (I assume you would by my subordinate in this hypothetical). If my two childish parenthetical jokes enfuriate you, check you mental health at the door.
That said. Beat Sparty, Go Blue!
October 5th, 2017 at 10:12 PM ^