Story by Alec Mullins, Contributing writer

Racer Athletics is always looking for ways to improve, and The Winners Circle is the latest step forward for the university.

Announced before the fall semester as the official student section of Murray State, The Winners Circle, aims to increase student activity at games for all sports.

“We felt that before, the student section was just paying $10 to get a T-shirt,” said Amy Wyatt Director of marketing and promotions. “We wanted to create something that continually interacted with the students.”

Beyond the benefits that come at registration, there will also be events held solely for members, such as meet and greets for the football and basketball teams.

Students who join The Winners Circle will gain early entry to all Racer basketball games, as well as be entered in a drawing for “Hang-out with the President,” in which the winner and a friend will watch the game with President Bob Davies.

Apart from The Winners Circle promotions, Murray State Athletics will also have a few important dates set for the season.

The first begins Friday for Family Weekend, where all Murray State students’ families are invited to come on campus for three days of family-oriented events.

This includes various activities at the residential colleges, the Music Department’s Fall Fanfare at Lovett Auditorium and a Football game at 7 p.m.  on Saturday at Roy Stewart Stadium.

After Family Weekend, the next home game will be at 3:00 pm on Oct. 10, at Stewart Stadium during Homecoming weekend.

Following the Homecoming parade, Murray State will welcome back many alumni and former faculty for an afternoon game against Austin Peay State in which there will be a half-time celebration for the 1995-96 Murray State football teams that won consecutive OVC championships.

The Murray State fundraising tradition, Tent City, will take place inside the stadium prior to the game. Residential colleges, student clubs, Greek organizations and academic departments will be given the opportunity to meet and interact with alumni throughout the afternoon. 

On Oct. 31, Racer Athletics is hosting Eastern Illinois for a Halloween game. Students are encouraged to come in their Halloween costumes and outfits as they cheer on the Racers for the second to last home game of the season.

All members of the Murray State community are welcome to attend these events and support the Racers throughout the year.