Have you ever been to any Bellefonte sporting event like football, basketball, or volleyball?  If you have, whether as a spectator or a player, you have heard, seen, or been part of the student section known as Raider Nation. 

Many people know that Bellefonte has self-proclaimed themselves as the best student section in Centre County, but most do not know what goes into being a part of it, or for the case of the two students running it.

Raider Nation is run by two seniors every year. This year, the roles were passed down to Ruby Bjalme and Owen Seibel. Their jobs consist of picking the themes for every volleyball, football, and basketball game. The themes can be anything from a basic formal night all the way to something fun like “white lies,” when people write an outrageous lie about themselves on their shirt. 

“I like the fact I get to be loud, organize the theme and events happening, and when I see people supporting the themes, it’s nice to know I played a big part in that,” Ruby said. “It’s a lot to take on and you deal with more than just the school, you deal with the community, but all in all it’s really fun and I’m honored to do it.”

The best part of being in Raider Nation is the effort that all the students put into it with their outfits, matching the theme, being loud, and supporting their players. When it comes to supporting the players and getting Raider Nation pumped up and ready to chant, no one does it better than senior Cole Crissman. When all of Raider Nation is energetic and hyped to cheer, that’s when it makes the difference and makes players want to fight just a little harder.

“It’s very enjoyable, fun, and overall a good time, even when the games aren’t going our way,” Cole said.

If you are wondering how to join Raider Nation, it’s quite simple. You show up, sit in the student section, and show support to our sports teams. It isn’t just for home games either; members of the section travel to away games to support them there, too.  If you are unsure what the theme is for certain games, check the instagram page @raidernation_2023, or contact Owen or Ruby for more information about the theme or Raider Nation in general.