At last night’s Duck victory over USC, there were just fewer than 60,000 fans in attendance. Sitting in the student section, alcohol and drugs were to be seen around every corner.
A couple of years ago, the University of Oregon Athletic Department recognized this and implemented the Conduckt System in which students could report an intoxicated or violent student via text messaging.
This was a wonderful idea, as while this behavior bothers most students, few will risk reporting such an individual, as they fear retaliation from that individual’s friends.
This was a brilliant communication method, however the UO Athletic Department failed to recognize several variables. One variable is that this system needs to be properly and frequently communicated to fans. If an incident occurs, a fan should know that number immediately. The second variable is that all wireless providers need to receive strong and consistent coverage at Autzen. The last variable is quick response from Autzen staff.
With “falling over 3 aisles every ten minutes” drunk guy behind me and “I smoke more pot than Dave Matthews” guy in front of me, I texted Conduct and was told that the service was down. The service was down at the rowdiest, most intoxicated game in all my 4 years here as a student. Right when I needed this brilliant communication system, it was down.
Also, where is the number? It's not on the GoDucks.com site and it wasn't announced at the game. There is no point in developing and publicizing an emergency communication system unless it works and works well.
Despite helping Drunken Dan up from his falls and breathing in my jacket to avoid the pot smoke, it was a game and a victory I'll never forget. Once again, as always, it's a privilege to be Duck.
Wow. You are a buzkill...
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