Ripon College Days

The 20th Winter Olympics are underway in Torino, Italy. But, are students taking notice?

According to NBC's Olympic Web site, the corporation broadcasting the games, ratings this year are down from the Salt Lake City Games in 2002.

The big difference between now and then is the location.

"I don't even know where Torino is," says sophomore Ryan Luedtke.

Traditionally, more people know about something when it is closer to home. The games in Torino are a far distance away and so is the general interest on campus.

"Usually I do watch [the Olympics], but this year I just haven't had the time," says sophomore Sarah Timm.

Students are often caught up in campus activities or schoolwork.

"I usually do watch the Olympics, but I don't watch as much television at college, so I haven't really seen any hype for it," says senior Liz Giedd.

However, a lack of time is not the only reason students are not tuning in to the Winter Games.

"I think the Olympics are overrated," says junior Matt Watkins.

Watkins believes there is too much build up to something that is just not that entertaining.

Often students just want to know the result, without ever watching any of the action.

Others make a conscience effort not to watch because of their beliefs.

"I am against watching the Olympics because I believe that competitive sport is damaging to society," says sophomore Jeanna Sperber.

However, not everyone is blind to the Olympics. There are bountiful shares of students who watch for one reason or another.

Although he does not believe they live up to their billing, Watkins does prefer the Winter Games to the Summer Olympics.

"I would rather watch the Winter Olympics because it is not just running," says Watkins.

The Winter Olympics offer a wide range of sport, including alpine skiing, bobsled, curling, figure skating, ice hockey, luge and speed skating.

"It's great watching the biathlon," says senior Reid Oven.

The biathlon involves a unique combination of sports. Cross-country skiing and shooting skills are put to the test in this rare sport.

Students pay attention to other sports also.

"I love hockey, so that's something I'm always looking for in the Olympics," says Miller.

Ice hockey is among the fan favorites, especially since the "Miracle on Ice" in the 1980 Olympics when the United States defeated the powerhouse Russians.

"I like the ice skating-figure and speed skating," says sophomore Becky Paske. "I curled in high school, so I also love watching it in the Olympics."

Ratings show figure skating is one of the most watched Winter Olympic events.

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