Gael Force Welcomes the Start of a New Season

In a one-on-one interview Amanda Hofmann, President of Gael Force, gave insight on what they have planned, what goals they are striving to achieve, and how the crew has developed over the years.

By: Eden Llodrá

Gael Force carries the school’s spirit and Saint Mary’s pride. Students know the feeling of wearing the white shirts with blue and red letters, cheering from the stands, and showing up to rallies. But, rarely are students aware of the ins and outs of Gael Force’s event planning and advertisement. 

Gael Force organizes tailgates before big games, throws handouts (towels and other little prizes) at rallies, and they help get in contact with the basketball teams to put together theme nights. The role of the president, Hofmann said, is to “lead meetings and help get in contact with the basketball teams.” The responsibilities in GaelForce are broken down into three crews: the tasked teams, who are the head of sports, seventeen blue crew members, who are in charge of organizing events, and seven executive team members. 

Hofmann vocalizes that Gael Force’s intent is to “create an environment at games that is super welcoming and friendly.” The sports arena is meant to ignite school spirit and hold a memorable sentiment in the hearts of Saint Mary’s students. The long-term goal is to continue getting students involved and excited about upcoming events and games, especially after COVID-19 stopped the momentum. 

Kyle Bowen, a forward on the basketball team said, “I’m incredibly thankful for the support we receive from SMC students. Gael Force makes home games so much more enjoyable and the team loves having them back in the stands this season.” The purpose of Gael Force is to make sure the student section is excited and “hyped up” for games. Not only does it become a memorable experience for the students, but one for the players as well. 

With the first home game and theme night of the season on November 9th, the men's basketball team took home a win, 87 to 68. The sports stadium was filled with students cheering and wearing SMC’s red, white, and blue. Gael Force brings the feeling of unanimity and comradery to the basketball courts, making students feel proud to be a Gael.