SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) – The Syracuse University football team is making headlines not just for what it’s doing on the field, but for the connections it’s building off of it.
With over 14,000 fans claiming tickets for this past weekend’s Spring Game, the Orange proved just how powerful football can be in uniting a community. But beyond the packed stands inside the JMA Wireless Dome, the team has been focused on a larger mission: using its platform to give back.
“It’s really been a large point of emphasis on how we give back to the community and really just kinda help out the people that are helping us out on Saturdays,” said director of football operations Juliano Macera.
Throughout the week leading up to the Spring Game, Syracuse football hosted a series of events aimed at strengthening ties with the local community. These included a 7-on-7 tournament for fraternities, sororities and other campus organizations, a high school coaches clinic with special guests like Central New York native and 2x Super Bowl winning head coach Tom Coughlin, and a block party that brought fans, families and players together in a relaxed and fun environment for photo and autograph opportunities.
Orange fan Patrick Lawless says what makes this effort so special is the display of leadership, especially in second year head coach Fran Brown.
“The other day we just saw Fran. He was just in Schine just hanging out with some students,” Lawless said. “And students see that on social media where he’s reaching out and he’s extending himself and getting involved in the community and it’s really great to see.”
The program’s efforts haven’t gone unnoticed. From youth clinics and food drives to personal appearances and public outreach, the team has made it clear that their presence in Central New York is about more than just football.
“I think it’s really important to the team to get out in the community,” Macera added. “Community service is a really big part of what coach looks to do.”
As the Orange prepare for the upcoming season, one thing is already clear: their off-the-field efforts are leaving a lasting impact.
From the stands to the heart of Central New York, Syracuse football is trying to build something bigger than the game.
AUDIO TRANSCRIPT: Syracuse Football makes it its mission to uplift Central New York
Hannah Beam: The Syracuse football team is showing that its impact goes far beyond the gridiron. NCC News reporter Sahil Patel has more on how the team is using its platform for more than just wins and losses.
Sahil Patel: The Syracuse football team is proving that its impact goes far beyond the gridiron. With over 14,000 tickets claimed for this past weekend’s spring game, the Orange proved once again just how powerful football can be in bringing people together. Director of Football Operations Juliano Macera says the focus is on giving back to those who fill the stands.
Juliano Macera: It’s really been a large point of emphasis on how we give back to the community and really just kinda help out the people that, they are helping us out on Saturdays.
Patel: But it’s not just about the crowd… it’s about connection. Building real relationships off the field is just as important to the Orange. From youth clinics to service projects, the team is committed to giving back to Central New York.
Macera: I think it’s really important to the team to get out in the community, community service is a really big part of what coach looks to do.
Patel: From the stands to the community, Syracuse football is making its presence felt in Central New York… and they’re just getting started. For NCC News, I’m Sahil Patel.