The lights dimmed, the crowd erupted and a wave of blue and gold swept through the Steinke Physical Education Center music blasting, sneakers squeaked and chants of “Go Javelinas!” echoed off the walls.
This year’s Javelina Madness was more than a pep rally, it was a celebration of spirit, sweat and school pride that set the stage for another basketball season at Texas A&M University-Kingsville.
The afternoon featured performances by the Javelina cheerleaders, the marching band and the Sapphire dance team each adding to the energy that filled the center.
As the crowd buzzed with excitement, students shared how Javelina Madness helps them feel more connected on campus.
“It really brings everybody together; I’ve met a lot of new people through events like this,” freshmen Bailey Hernandez said.
“There is not much to do on campus so attending the Madness really helps us come out and not just for us to be stuck with schoolwork,” senior Regina Lerma said.
With the high energy and the crowd behind them, the Javelinas are ready to carry that same spirit into the new season.
“The motivation comes from our players and the excitement and energy they bring in year and year out. Every team is different and every team is unique. This group has so much energy and a competitive spirit that makes coming to work easy and really enjoyable. The biggest thing every year is that we want to become the best basketball team we can become,” Head Coach of the Women’s Basketball team Micheal Madrid said.
As the echoes of Jalisco faded and students filed out with their free shirts and wide smiles, the energy lingered.