Changes Coming to JMU Game Day Experience
If there is one thing we’ve learned about Coach Withers thus far, it’s that the man is not afraid to make some changes. A second thing is that he really likes to use the word dude (regardless of whether or not a certain former JMU coach finds it appropriate or not). But really it’s the changes that stand out.
Withers has come in and completely shaken up the JMU football program. A more intense academic system, increased competition for starting spots, better student outreach, new locker rooms, etc. There are no sacred cows in Withers eyes. If he thinks there is a change that can help his players, he’s going to make sure it happens. That same philosophy apparently extends to mixing things up and making improvements for fans. Because as the DNR’s Matt Jones explains, Coach Withers is helping revamp the fans’ game day experience ($).
In the article, Jones explains that Withers, Jeff Bourne, and the football operations staff are putting their stamp on JMU game days this fall. More games will be played in the middle of the afternoon, in an attempt to be more student friendly. The hope is that by wrapping things up before Saturday night parties kick off, more students will stay for the entire game. The fact that it also means an earlier drive back home for alums ain’t bad either. Withers and the team will bring back the walk through the tailgate areas prior to kick-off, rebranding the activity the “Dog Walk.” Something tells me, Withers version might be a little more enthusiastic and fan friendly than versions under the previous regime. Prior to entering the locker room, coaches and players might make a pit stop to join Curt Dudley at a sort of JMU version of college game day outside the stadium. The only thing that would make that better would be if Curt invited two JMU bloggers to join him as well. (ed. note: Make that happen people. Please.)
In terms of the stadium experience, the pre game cartoons featuring the Duke Dog fighting the visiting team’s mascots are a thing of the past. They will be replaced by some other form of video, but nobody is sharing details just yet. We can expect the same sort of fireworks and team entrance, but newer music throughout the game. One thing we might not see a lot of is in game replays while the Dukes are on offense. Not because Withers or anyone else has something against them, but because JMU is expected to play at a tempo so fast there won’t be time to show replays or highlights between plays. Mickey ball this is not.
Everett Withers is a marketers dream
More reason to get back for a game this year. I missed out last season (they go so fast!).
I won’t make the drive from VA Beach as often for games if they start in the mid-afternoon. I enjoy the extended tailgating and atmosphere of later games. I’d much rather have a late drive home after the game than to cut back on the tailgating and comaraderie we enjoy before the games.
I know everyone won’t feel this way but every action changing something will bring about a reaction. This change will not be favored by all. Just be aware that this change will not suit everyone.
The students are going to do what they are going to do, regardless. I didn’t notice any better duration of student attendance during day games than night games in recent years.
All of the above sounds like welcome changes to me. 3:30 games are great, especially as it gets later in the fall. I would definitely like to scrap the 12-1pm starts.
Thank god Mickey Ball is a thing of the past. I will now not ‘nod off’ anymore during games.
New changes bring excitement let’s hope. I think we are in for a great season of football.
When recruiting new players Coach Withers looks for what he calls a “dude”. Talented? Yes. JMU material? Maybe. Once a player has committed to be a student-athlete for the James Madison University football team he has become a “Duke”. He can then be welcomed into the JMU family and start on the adventure of a lifetime, being a JMU Duke. The “k” makes all the difference.
*The above text is based on speculation w/out consultation from Everett Withers or any of his staff. Go Dukes!