A staple of the University of Utah experience is participation in the Mighty Utah Student Section, more commonly known as The MUSS. While membership in the MUSS is not required, it is highly encouraged amongst fans of Utah Athletics and is an integral part of a well-rounded university experience.

Aside from exposing students to benefits not allotted to the general public, the MUSS offers students opportunities to travel to away games with select teams as well as provides special access to students at athletic events.

Samir Mulahalilovic, a four-year veteran of the MUSS, is a seasoned sports fan and avid supporter of Utah athletics. His appreciation for the MUSS is what sparked his interest in the sports that the University offers.

“It has completely changed my college experience,” he said. “It’s one of the things I look forward to every year. It really brings the whole school together.”

Mulahalilovic also spoke about the impact that a fun atmosphere like the MUSS can have on a student’s experience at sporting events. “Some of my friends that come to games aren’t football fans at all but come for the fun atmosphere.”

One of the primary benefits of having a MUSS pass is being able to attend a wide variety of sporting events with only one pass. One MUSS pass runs at $50 for the year, which is an obvious steal for those who enjoy attending games, especially for fans of multiple sports. Every sport that is offered by the University has benefits for MUSS pass holders in one form or another. Many sports will allow entry to games only with a MUSS pass.

Mulahalilovic spoke about the atmosphere that the MUSS tailgates provide and how they benefited his experience at games.

“The MUSS tailgates always have free food. During games, I’ll always meet new people or run into old friends. It makes for a really good time.”

While the air around the MUSS is one of healthy support of student athletics, it is not without its rowdy nature. In fact, the MUSS is famous for registering a small earthquake during a football game at Rice-Eccles Stadium several years ago. This occurred during what has become a staple in the MUSS: the Third Down Jump. The raucous display is an attempt by the fans to create enough noise to distract opposing players and has even had an effect on the way that the Utah football team holds practices on game week, where coaches will play simulated crowd noises to help the team remain focused with the volume and presence of the MUSS.

The MUSS allows students a true student experience when it comes to Utah Athletics. The access and opportunities that it provides create a more well-rounded experience for students at sporting events. The program is designed to allow student interaction outside of the classroom, and promote a healthy sense of sportsmanship and a more positive approach to sporting events.

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