In an effort to create more enthusiasm and support for the prospering women’s basketball program at Mississippi State University, coach Sharon Fanning spearheaded an effort to create a cheering section like Rick’s Rowdies from the men’s games.
From her efforts, Fanning’s Fanatics developed last year. The group hopes to make an even bigger impact this season.
“It is really thanks to her that we have this group,” said Shellie Aultman, acting chairperson for Fanning’s Fanatics.
When you look up ‘fanatic’ in the dictionary you are find it means “excessive enthusiasm and intense uncritical devotion.” If you come to the Hump on a Sunday afternoon you’ll find out that fanatic means dressing up in Maroon and White afro wigs and shouting cheers that may seem offensive to a less devoted fan.
A favorite from last year was aimed at the major shooters from any team brave enough to visit the Hump.
“If you’re ugly and you know it, shoot the ball,” rang through the air anytime a shooter from the opposing team touched the ball.
“We want to create the same kind of atmosphere we encountered last year out in New Mexico,” said Chris Shirley, acting liaison between the Student Association athletic support group and Fanning’s Fanatics. “The girls need the same kind of home court advantage that the guy’s team gets.”
The leadership for the Fanning’s Fanatics want to create an atmosphere so enticing that even the shyest Bulldog fan will get involved.
“If you get one person up there cheering their heads off then you don’t have as many shy people just sitting back watching the game,” said Aultman. “Cheering has sort of a domino effect.”
“It really helps to get everyone on the same page and doing the same cheer,” added Shirley.
Fanning’s Fanatics don’t just cheer at the games, they work to bring people into the games as well.
Before the season starts, Fanatics distribute pocket schedules and posters all around Starkville to let people know when the games are.
“We’re going to be the voice that brings in the next record breaking crowd,” said Aultman.
This year’s home schedule is highlighted by a nationally televised CBS game against Illinois and a tough SEC schedule that includes Tennessee. The Fanatics believe that a big home court advantage is sure to make a difference.
As Fanning said in a recent interest meeting for the Fanning Fanatics, “When we (the women’s basketball program) win that championship ring, you’re (the Fanning’s Fanatics) are going to be a big part of it.”