Ohio State encourages football fans to celebrate with class

COLUMBUS – The Ohio State University is preparing for this week’s game against the University of Michigan by challenging Buckeye football fans to show the nation that they celebrate with respect and class.

The challenge is part of Ohio State’s commitment to battle the national trend against unruly fan behavior.

University efforts include a public service announcement (PSA) for television from Buckeye icon and Associate Athletics Director Archie Griffin to remind people to “show the nation that Buckeye fans are a ‘class act.’” During the game, the scoreboard will feature similar messages.

Radio PSAs also are running WBNS-1460, and the messages are incorporated into commentaries on Clear Channel stations in the Columbus area.

Vice President for Student Affairs Bill Hall said he has confidence that Ohio State fans will act appropriately regardless of the outcome of the game.

“I trust and hope that true Buckeye fans, led by our students, will react to victory or loss like real champions,” Hall said.

Ohio State also has planned events on campus throughout the “Beat Michigan Week.”

The university initiatives include:

• Organizing a free concert for students on Saturday night, which features the Pat McGee Band at the Newport Music Hall, 1722 N High St;

• Providing free food to students from local vendors at various locations on campus Saturday after the football game;

• Promoting numerous charitable and spirit-building events during “Beat Michigan Week;”

• Developing scoreboard messages about ideal fan behavior; and

• Highlighting the university’s message on Ohio State’s electronic front door, http://www.osu.edu.

Hall also said because the Columbus Division of Police is closing off streets, including Chittenden Avenue, E. 12th Avenue, E. 13th Avenue and E. Norwich Avenue, student residents will be able to park at the Camera Center, 2050 Kenny Road.