The Bullpit prepares its return to the stands

Students excited to support USD athletics

TAYLOR NIELSEN / SPORTS EDITOR / THE USD VISTA

The best way to catch a front-row seat to one of the 14 Division I teams at the University of San Diego is in the Bullpit, USD’s student section. This student-run organization provides a community for students at sporting events and a place in the crowd for students to show support for their favorite sports teams. 

Inspired by the school mascot, Diego Torero, the Bullpit focuses on bringing the bullfighter spirit into USD’s home arenas by cheering on fellow student-athletes. 

The Bullpit’s president, USD senior Regan Dorsey, is ready to take charge and lead the way at this year’s upcoming sporting events. 

“We strive to enhance the atmosphere of USD athletic events by exuding school pride. Whether it is on the bleachers, on the football field, or in the stands at the JCP, the Bullpit will bring Torero energy,” Dorsey said. 

However, she emphasized that the Bullpit is not only for avid sports fans. 

The Bullpit maintains a strong reputation for being an inclusive community that welcomes all levels of sports knowledge and prior interest in sports. Students do not need to know what play the head football coach, Dale Lindsey, just called, or why USD’s basketball team just got a foul in order to feel like they belong in the Bullpit. 

“If you are looking for a place where you can be yourself, this is the place for you. We welcome everyone who has a love for sports or those who are looking to learn more about the sports world,” Dorsey said. 

After joining Dorsey realized the importance of the Bullpit at USD. The organization is more than just fun, weekly gatherings at sporting events and the catchy chants their members initiate. Their presence as an organization determines the visibility of school pride on campus. 

The Bullpit forms a community that bonds students through a common interest in showing up for USD’s athletics. This provides the opportunity for students to meet new people and make connections with students they don’t regularly see, especially for first-year and transfer students. 

If there is one thing that can bring the USD community together, it’s throwing on their Torero blue-and-white gear to show support to the school that they are proud to attend. 

“The Bullpit is the bridge between athletics and the main campus. It is where you let your spirit shine through. It is important to have a sense of pride for the university you attend,” Dorsey said.  

This fall marks the second season that spectators are allowed back into its sporting events. While Dorsey admits that last year’s transition back into the stands wasn’t the wild comeback they expected, the plans she has for the Bullpit show potential for a successful year. 

“I want to specifically focus on building back the Bullpit to reach its full potential, finding out what the students want from us, and how to make their game- day experience the best it can be,” Dorsey said. 

The Bullpit leadership team is treating this school year as a way to start fresh. She noted that members can look forward to collaborating with the athletics department for an improved full game experience, with an emphasis on developing new pregame and halftime experiences. 

In addition, the Bullpit is working on implementing new organizational strategies, such as improved scheduling communication and more leadership opportunities. They plan on providing a master schedule to help its members easily find a game to attend.

The Bullpit’s first appearance will take place during Olé Weekend, at the men’s soccer match against Houston Baptist on Friday, Sept. 2. They will be located in the stands on the east end zone of the Torero Stadium. 

They will also be stationed at the Alcalá Bazaar, USD’s student involvement fair,  which will take place on Tuesday, Sept. 13. There, active members will be available to share more about their experience on the Bullpit, as well as any important upcoming dates that students need to attend to join. 

“We encourage all first years and every other student to come swing by to the games this year. Bring your energy and Torero Spirit,” Dorsey said. 

The Bullpit is looking forward to the school spirit that its newest members will add this season.