Texas A&M University\u2013Kingsville students voted this week to approve a proposed increase to the university\u2019s athletic fee, raising the amount from $20 to $35 per semester credit hour, capped at 13 hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The referendum, organized by the athletic department, was open from Oct. 7 to 9. Students could cast their votes online through a QR code or in person at the pavilion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The change will not affect current students. Only new and transfer students will pay the increased fee beginning in the next academic year. The athletic department stated that the additional revenue will support scholarships, facility improvements and better game day experiences. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To boost participation, student-athletes gathered at the pavilion to hand out pizza and smoothies and encourage classmates to vote yes during the week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cI believe that this could enhance the student environment and the student life around campus,\u201d Jakari Landry, a linebacker on the football team said, \u201cSome students go to big Division I universities, and they have bigger, better game day environments for more enjoyable experiences. I believe this could bring that to the campus of TAMUK.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Other students agreed that a stronger athletic program could enhance campus pride and student involvement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIn my personal opinion, I feel like it\u2019s good and definitely worth it,\u201d said Esteban De La Fuente, a TAMUK student. \u201cA lot of the athletic facilities on campus aren\u2019t up to par.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Coaches also voiced support for the proposal, noting that the increase could improve the experience for both athletes and fans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cYes, this is for athletics, but it\u2019s also for our future,\u201d softball coach Orlando Salinas said. \u201cYou become an alumnus. You come back years later, you go to the football, volleyball, basketball and softball games, and you\u2019re going to see what that money went to.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The new fee will take effect for incoming and transfer students beginning in the next academic year.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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