By: Sid Raghunath and Mason Machiran

In the season of professional and collegiate sports, students at MRHS argue that one is better than the other. Some prefer collegiate sports over professional, and some prefer professional sports over collegiate. Depending on the sport, answers vary, especially with the more popular sports — football, baseball, and basketball — as students are loyal to certain teams or find one platform more entertaining and energizing than the other.

“[College sports are] definitely more enjoyable to watch because of their rivalries and their environment,” said senior Alec Royle.

Rivalries create tension between fans, players, and in games, and they are prevalent in college sports. Duke – UNC, Michigan – Ohio State, Army – Navy, and several more competitors entice the fans and players during games and events. Rivalries create a culture and a sense of community among each side, creating a strong and entertaining environment in the stadium.

“The energy in the college football stadium is unlike any professional stadium I’ve ever been to,” claimed senior Gavin Keenan as he explained his preference for the high tempo and energy brought to the college stadiums that he says is unmatched. Keenan showed his passion for college sports and explained how his favorite football team, NC State, is more fun to watch than his favorite NFL team, the Baltimore Ravens. Keenan also says that watching a college football game with his family and supporting the school his older brother Ryan goes to is more fun than a team they like based on their area.

Though some think college sports are more enjoyable, not everyone agrees. Senior Cooper Ellis makes his point that he finds the NFL much more fun to watch than college football.

“The players on professional sports teams come from the college sports; they are all of the best players from the best college teams, so the level of play is much higher and professional sports have better talent,” stated Ellis. He states that when athletes reach the NFL, they are in peak condition, or only getting better, which makes them more competitive.

The NFL has people from all over watching and has more fans for every team. Certain college football teams that are historically disappointing are not paid attention to, but NFL fans will be loyal to their team, regardless of whether they are consistently good
or do not win any games.

The debate between the entertainment value of collegiate and professional sports has been argued for ages. Whether it’s the packed energy of a college’s student section, the cheer from the loyal fans of the city, or the astonishing talent from the field, both levels have their share of fans who love it for its pros and for its cons.

The mixed opinions on the preference of professional and collegiate sports in MRHS show that both sides have something to offer. Sports are a major part of students’ lives. In the end, there’s no clear winner — just different reasons to cheer.

So, which one do you prefer, college or professional sports?