Axe ’Em, Jacks!
SFA Athletic Director Robert Hill (far right), head football coach J.C. Harper (back row, center) and members of the SFA Spirit Teams show off their school spirit to promote upcoming "SFA Spirit Fridays" and College Colors Day.NACOGDOCHES, Texas - Stephen F. Austin State University students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends are encouraged to participate in "Spirit Fridays" this football season by proudly wearing the official colors and insignia of the university.
Several years ago, SFA President Baker Pattillo signed a proclamation designating the last day of each work week as "SFA Spirit Friday" to promote school and community pride in the institution. The new tradition has become popular at SFA and within the Nacogdoches community with participation increasing each consecutive year.
"Wearing the traditional SFA colors of purple and white, along with clothing that bears the university's official logo and other insignia, is a great way to show your pride in SFA and excitement for the upcoming Lumberjack football season," said John Branch, assistant athletic director.
"We want to paint the whole town purple every Friday, and we encourage everyone - from school kids to retirees - to participate in this spirit-filled tradition."
According to Monique Cossich, executive director of enrollment management, the university colors and insignia also play an important role in promoting SFA's educational experience to prospective students.
"We hope the community and our alumni will join us in showing support for SFA athletic teams, student organizations and academic groups, as well as the strong traditions and Lumberjack spirit that make SFA a great place to get an education," Cossich said.
"We have a large number of prospective students who visit our campus on Fridays, and we want them to be able to see firsthand the excitement and pride we all have in SFA."
In Nacogdoches, SFA licensed apparel can be purchased at Barnes & Noble, Belk Department Store, Jack Backers College Bookstore, Kampus Books, Varsity Bookstore, Walmart and other retail outlets.
SFA students, alumni and friends also are encouraged to support the tradition by "liking" the link on Facebook, facebook.com/SFASpiritFridays.
The Lumberjack football team will kick off its 2011 season against McMurry University at 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 1, at Homer Bryce Stadium. Friday, Sept. 2, is national College Colors Day, when students, fans and alumni all over the country are encouraged to wear apparel representing their favorite college.
"This first week of football season, let's show the campus and community - as well as the entire country - how proud we are to be affiliated with Stephen F. Austin State University," Branch said. "Axe 'em, Jacks!"