LBG Zoo raises school spirit and controversy
by Tabetha Ward, Staff Writer
November 18 , 2010
It’s a chilly fall Friday evening and the obvious place to be is at a Leechburg varsity football game. Students wear their best school-spirited attire and head to the field to meet with friends and cheer on the team – and possibly visit the Zoo.
Hearing the words “LBG Zoo” may produce a negative reaction for some people. The Zoo is known for its outrageous antics and clothing choices, which sometimes offend some attending the game. For others, “LBG Zoo” represents school spirit and pride in the most exciting way possible.
“I am one hundred percent in favor of the Leechburg Zoo,” principal Matt Kruluts said. Kruluts’s words may come as a shock to some students when they see members of the Zoo escorted out of a game for their conduct.
But what fans may not realize is that school rules of conduct still apply to school functions such as sporting events.
“There are still rules to be followed, and direction needs to be taken,” Kruluts said. “If they [students] are not adhering to the rules and standards that are set forth, they will be escorted from the game.”
Zoo members do dress in costume, paint their bodies and blow their vuvuzelas, the loud monotone horns made popular in America this year by their prevalence at soccer matches. Whether it’s a hotdog costume, a blue man suit, or a “ghille suit,” the Zoo attracts a long list of interesting characters.
“I do it for the people, for the football players and it‘s fun” said senior Zoo member Ethan Copeland.
Some have criticized the Zoo as diverting attention from the football game to the Zoo members themselves, causing a distraction to both fans and parents. But Dan Coutch, a senior captain on the football team, said, “I feel they are there to support their athletes. I am a part of the Zoo during basketball season, and I know for a fact that I’m there for support.”
The LBG Zoo has had a lasting effect over the student body this year, having been featured at pep rallies and receiving designated seating at home football games.
“It makes the school,” Copeland said. “People come to see the Zoo. We’re just there to cheer on the football players.”
“I love the school spirit that the Zoo brings to the games.” Kruluts said. “Even though the team may not have the best win/loss record, the Zoo is very much a part of the atmosphere of the events and I appreciate them being there. The impact the Zoo has is increasing school spirit. I think that’s a wonderful thing for our school.”
The Zoo has also brought a sense of unity among fans. The Zoo consists of members from various grades and social groups all coming together for one purpose: to cheer on the teams while having fun doing so. There are no requirements to join except for the willingness to let loose and support Leechburg athletics.
“I am very supportive of what they do,” Kruluts said. “There has never been a group like the Zoo.”
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