AU introduces athletes to incoming freshman class at Jaguar Madness

By Chris Rickerson | Sports editor

Augusta University students packed the building as AU’s Athletics Department and Student Life Engagement hosted Jaguar Madness Friday, Aug. 14, at Christenberry Fieldhouse.

The event made its return this fall semester after it was cancelled last year due to the coronavirus pandemic. 

AU students participated in many games at the event, such as musical chairs, a dance battle and a basketball shooting competition. AU Director of Athletics Clint Bryant and public address announcer Jason Scherer spoke at the event, introducing the AU athletic team rosters and welcoming the students. 

Many students were excited about the event, including the new class of freshmen. 

“The experience was really nice and the DJ made it a lot of fun,” said AU freshman Marsha Russell. 

Russell, who is majoring in biology, said it was exciting to meet the athletes and is looking forward to supporting her Jaguars. 

“It was cool seeing all of the athletes and knowing what the school has in terms of each sport, and I am super excited about coming to the games and having that same crowd experience,” said Russell. 

Russell recently graduated from Rockdale County High School, where she said there was a lot of school spirit. She also said the basketball games and tennis matches are what she plans on attending the most. 

“I came out to see what the atmosphere is like when it comes to school spirit because I came from a school with a lot of school spirit,” said Russell. “I will probably attend the basketball games because the teams seem really fun, but I also enjoy playing tennis so I may go to those matches as well.

Attending along with Russell was freshman Kayla Farquharson, also a biology major. Farquharson said that she is not planning on attending any sporting events and just came to support her school. 

“I have never been to a pep rally before, and I came here because I love school spirit,” said Farquharson. “My favorite sport to play is net ball to play, but I don’t plan on going to any other AU games.” 

After Jaguar Madness, the Jaguar Production Crew held a silent headphone party for the students until 10 p.m. 

Many students stayed, ate pizza and enjoyed the fun night with there friends and classmates. 

Contact Chris Rickerson at crickerson@augusta.edu.

Marsha Russell (L) and Kayla Farquharson, both freshmen and biology majors, attend Jaguar Madness at Christenberry Fieldhouse. At the top of the page, Tyshaun Crawford (front left) leads the men’s basketball team on to the Christenberry court. (photos by Chris Rickerson)