More Students Wearing School Colors
At UAB, it's common to see representation of other institutions. But a culture once dominated by other universities now reigns over its own territory at UAB. Did it start in 2000 when UAB beat the University of Louisiana on their homecoming (13-10)? Or was it after the only time UAB played UA in basketball and won 58-56 in 1993?
"I don't think if you were an Alabama fan and went to Auburn you would wear Alabama gear...be a Blazer fan through and through," said UAB student Sara Tucker. Over the past few years, a large number of UAB Blazer fans have been outraged at the lack of allegiance student's show to their university.
Today, there are more students than ever wearing the UAB Blazer accessories around campus, in other states and other institutions. A day trip to six flags, a trip to Canada or a walk downtown, don't be surprised to see a dragon stamped on a t-shirt or sweatshirt. Sometimes, just going to the university is enough to show allegiance to an institution.
"UAB is the foundation of my academic career...of course I still wear my green and gold," said Jimmy Johnson, an Auburn University psychology postgraduate student. Johnson has been caught on the Facebook social network wearing his UAB Bands wristband in photos in AU related events.
The UAB community has certainly grown over the years. In fall 2007, UAB had 11,470 undergraduates enrolled on its campus. "I've seen more students wearing UAB gear. It may not match the number of other institutions, but it certainly has grown over the past couple of years," said Dr. Wittig, a UAB public relations professor.
In an informal review conducted in two separate university classes, 8.4% dressed in some form of UAB paraphernalia, while only 0.02% dressed in other institution gear. UAB sports-related events may not equal that of Bama or Auburn. However, UAB students, former and new wear their school's gear and support their school.
Joshua Wilson Kaleidoscope
Blazernet
