New flocks of Owls filled Tudor Fieldhouse with chants, signs and competitive spirit as they represented their residential colleges and cheered on Rice University’s sports teams during the annual Rice Rally Aug. 19.
As is tradition, the colleges kicked off the night by exchanging chants and acclimating their newest members to Rice’s lighthearted rivalries. Soon after, the crowd came together to celebrate each of Rice’s athletic teams and hear from coaches, who encouraged students to carry their energy into the stands this season.
“Every year that we do this, the crowds get bigger and better and louder — and we need you guys,” said Lindsay Edmonds, head women’s basketball coach. “We need this excitement and this energy to help us create a true home-court advantage this year. We can’t wait to see you here filling out the student section. Go Owls!”
For first-year student-athletes like Amelia Shoemaker, a cross-country runner from Northern Virginia, the atmosphere was unforgettable.
“It was really cool coming out of the tunnel and seeing everyone cheering,” said Shoemaker, a Will Rice College freshman studying mechanical engineering. “Everyone started having all the chants and the cheers. It was the first time we’ve all been together, and it’s really special to see everyone excited … [I’m] just excited to be a Rice Owl.”
Shoemaker, whose sister also ran at Rice, said the university’s blend of academics and spirit drew her in.
“I wanted to find somewhere that balanced school spirit with really good academics, and Rice kind of fit.”
Fellow first-year student-athlete Lily Archibald, a Duncan College swimmer majoring in kinesiology, said Rice Rally was a surprise highlight of O-Week.
“I actually had no idea what this was going into it,” Archibald said. “Walking out and feeling the energy of the school and the community was just amazing. I feel like athletes are very appreciated here at Rice, and I’m so excited and so happy to be a part of it.”
Both Shoemaker and Archibald said O-Week has quickly given them a sense of community and belonging.
“I’ve already experienced such an amazing community during O-Week, especially at Duncan,” Archibald said. “It’s so diverse and welcoming. I’m excited to be part of it for the next four years.”
Be sure to check out the photos from O-Week by clicking here. Students might find themselves, new friends or special moments captured of their colleges.
