By Brad L. Mortensen

A little more than 30 years ago, while pursuing my bachelor’s degree in political science, I was in the Dee Glen Smith Spectrum’s student section. And on this night, I was staying up a lot later — or maybe earlier — than I should have. 

While I remember many classes, professors, and extracurricular activities, there is a particular February evening seared into my brain. Our Aggies were taking on New Mexico State, and on top of being a heated Big West rivalry, this was a nationally televised game.

Now, back at the end of the last century, it wasn’t like it is now. The Aggies were lucky to get a single nationally televised home game a year. And due to being nationally televised, that game tipped off at 10 p.m. as part of ESPN’s “Big Monday” slate of games. Unfortunately, the Aggies lost a heartbreaker in double overtime that night, but it was an intense game with a raucous crowd. At some point, students even rained Gossner milk cartons down onto the court.

Experiences like that stick with you. Even if you don’t know the names of the people you’re next to, you feel a shared pride and connection. Athletic events have a unique way of bringing people together, and I’m excited about the opportunities ahead for Utah State as we enter this next chapter in the Pac-12.

After returning to bowl eligibility last season, coach Bronco Mendenhall has built strong momentum and continued excitement around our football program. In men’s basketball, NCAA Tournament appearances have become an expectation, and coach Ben Jacobson is excited to build on that tradition of Aggie success and pride. Our women’s soccer, volleyball, gymnastics, and men’s tennis teams have also excelled, earning multiple conference championships. Coach Manny Martins, coach Keith Smith, coach Kristin White, coach Aaron Paajanen, and the rest of our staff are planning to continue this run of success.

At the same time, college athletics is changing rapidly, and universities across the country are navigating new financial realities. Utah State remains committed to competing at a high-level while being thoughtful and responsible in how we invest our resources. We know our approach must be strategic, sustainable, and aligned with our mission and university priorities.

I am excited about the direction of our athletics program and the leadership that Cam Walker brings as athletic director, and optimistic because members of our Aggie family have stepped up at all levels to support our success. There is so much enthusiasm from our student-athletes, overall student body, fans, and alumni, and we believe that Utah State is well positioned for the future. Go Aggies!