Paddle People

As football season gets ready to kick off this weekend, I thought I’d go back in time to my college days and one of my favorite memories, being a Paddle person. Paddle People is a spirit group made up of some of the rowdiest and most energetic fans at Oklahoma State. I was part of it for two seasons, and it was an absolute blast. We had wooden paddles painted bright orange, and the goal was simple: be as loud as possible. The hype of game day and the energy were electric. It was truly the time of my life. I loved getting to the stadium early, watching the players warm up, and seeing them circle up for prayer and There was nothing like singing the Alma Mater after a win- it was magical. chant. I’ll never forget that first game day as a student—it was a dream come true. The sound of the paddles echoing through the stadium and the energy of the crowd—it was epic. Paddle People was something I had always dreamed of being part of. For years, I would watch from across the field and think, I want to do that someday. Being such a die-hard OSU fan, it just made sense for me to be part of the most hyped-up spirit group. Looking back, Paddle People was about more than just football games. It gave me the chance to be part of the energy and tradition I had watched from across the field for years. Rain or shine, freezing temperatures, or snow, we showed up no matter what. We were always ready to   I’ll never forget one game—Bedlam, I think it was 2013 or 2014. Snow had literally been shoveled off the field just hours before kickoff. It was freezing, and I couldn’t feel my toes, but I didn’t care. I was having the time of my life. Dressed head to toe in America’s brightest orange, pounding my paddle against that wall, and surrounded by people who loved it just as much as I did- it was unforgettable. Paddle People will always be one of my favorite memories from college. Of all my college memories, being a Paddle Person is one that will always stand out.

Loyal and true, forever, and always- Go Pokes!!