ETSU has officially launched a new Buc Student Rewards Program, an initiative designed to boost student attendance and engagement at men’s and women’s basketball games. The program, sponsored by Pepsi, operates similarly to a fast-food rewards app, where students earn points for attending games and can redeem them to win various prizes.
“It’s all about rewarding our students for showing up and supporting their teams,” said John Moore, assistant director of sales and promotions. “We wanted to make something fun and competitive that encourages school spirit.”
Students accumulate points for attending basketball games throughout the semester. For example, reaching 20 points earns a hat, while hitting 40 points rewards a T-shirt. The maximum amount that can be earned is 65 points, with each game assigned a specific point value. The first student to attend every game this semester will be entered to win a gaming console, either an Xbox or PlayStation.
Moore explained that part of his role involves “collecting the data and making sure each student’s attendance and points are accurately tracked.”
The initiative will start with basketball games but could later expand to other sports, such as football and baseball.
“We see basketball as having the most potential right now,” Moore said. “The energy near March Madness is incredible, but we want that same excitement at every game.”
The program aims to make attending games more enjoyable and foster consistent support from the student body. Moore emphasized that a strong fan presence enhances the atmosphere and can also help the teams perform better.
“Our students are vital. When they show up, the energy is immense. Their support can, and has in past games, help us win,” Moore said.
ETSU plans to promote the rewards program heavily through its ticketing website, which will soon feature a dedicated page for the rewards system, the full basketball schedule and ongoing updates. Press releases and social media campaigns are also in development.
When asked what Buc Pride means to him, Moore reflected on the strong spirit he’s seen among ETSU students.
“Buc Pride is about passion, community and showing up for one another,” he said. “This program reflects those values. It shows our students that their support matters and that, together, we can create something special.”
With the launch of the Buc Student Rewards Program, ETSU is setting the stage for a more connected and proud campus community.
