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There was a loud and boisterous crowd of around 500 people gathered in
the Schwarz-Butters plaza in from of Cameron tonight, there to show their
support and love for Coach Gail Goestenkors. The group was an eclectic
mix of students, alumni, Iron Dukes and community members who have
supported the team for a long time. The event was put together in less
than 24 hours, thanks to a team of student organizers and the efforts of
Duke Student Government president Eliot Wolfe.
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There was quite a media presence at the event, with folks from
newspapers and TV networks. Thanks to various student groups and faculty
support, there was free pizza and bottled water labeled "G-Force". There
was a miniature version of the pep band playing the usual tunes. Most of
all, there were fans. Fans chanting "Gail's not for sale", "We love G",
"Don't let her go, Joe", and even "Go to hell Longhorns, go to hell".
Many fans had signs as well.
The team also came out and said a few words. It was announced that
Coach G was not at the rally or in her office. Gale Valley thanked the
crowd and told them to keep the emails coming. Abby Waner spoke on behalf
of the team, thanking them for their support. The crowd demanded speeches
from Lindsey Harding & Alison Bales, who both complied, much to the
crowd's delight. Perhaps the highlight of the event came when Wolfe was on
the phone with Dean Kristina Johnson. Wolfe texted photos of the amassed
crowd over to Coach G!
Aside from Coach G (who had just gotten back into town), there were
two notable absences at the rally: Joe Alleva & President Richard
Brodhead. The absence of the former was not surprising. The absence of
the latter was rather disappointing, given his attendence at a similar
rally for Coach K a couple of years ago.
Overall, the rally was a success. I encouraged those I saw to
continue sending messages of support to Coach G if they hadn't already.
If they had the means to do so, I also encouraged them to either join the
Iron Dukes or increase their donation--and to let the office know why they
were doing so. Another suggestion might be an offer to contribute to
endowed scholarships in Gail's name.
Rally Photo Gallery
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