LAURINBURG — It’s an odd thing when you go to sporting events and you’re surrounded by people but none of them seem to be excited about the game.

It’s a real phenomenon known as a “wine and cheese” crowd — a term that has been used for years to describe Carolina Panthers fans, who just quietly sit and watch the game but never get rambunctious.

Not something I’m used to coming from Ohio.

Last week, geologists at Ohio State University teamed up with Miami University to measure the vibrations caused by Ohio State fans during the Michigan game. They determined the boisterous Buckeye fans caused what in nature would be a 5.7 magnitude earthquake — Ohio Stadium was literally rocking.

Fans at Pate Stadium won’t have to worry about that, they are more of the “wine and cheese” crowd than an earthquake causing group. A fact that continues to baffle me considering the level of fandom everyone keeps telling me about. Since I got here all I’ve heard is how football crazy Scotland is and people pack into Pate Stadium every Friday to see the Scots play.

Did I just come during an off year?

Because the only game that’s been packed was the Scotland vs. Richmond. Two games into the playoffs and I have yet to be impressed with the number of fans that have come out to support the Scots.

I’ve spent the last 21 weeks — since the moment I started working here — covering the Scots and every Friday night I feel bad for the players. I know they are looking in the stands and seeing all the empty seats and wondering what more they need to do to get support from the community.

And the couple thousand fans that do attend aren’t exactly rowdy. They cheer on a big defensive play, a long touchdown run or a penalty they don’t agree with, but even then it’s a few seconds of noise followed by crickets. The Scots are undefeated and one game away from the Eastern Region finals and two games from playing for a 4A state title — there’s still time to come out and show your support.

The Scots beat Hoggard and they will play their final home game next week against No. 2 Cape Fear. After that a win sends them to Raleigh to Carter-Finley Stadium on the campus of N.C. State University to play for the 4A state title.

That means you too students.

I can pretty much count on one hand the student “regulars” who have come not only to the home games, but many of the away contests. Whichever grade level is responsible for organizing the student section is clearly not doing their job. These are your friends and classmates out on the field and your support means just as much as cheers from mom, dad and grandma.

Bring cowbells, noise makers, pick a theme and dress up, make signs whatever you have to do — and adults this goes for you too — but most importantly pack Pate Stadium and cheer, please cheer, on the Fighting Scots.

Amber Hatten Sports Editor
https://www.laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/web1_DSC_0704.jpgAmber Hatten Sports Editor