September 25, 2019 by FresnoStateCollegian

CSU CHANCELLOR VISITS CAMPUS Fresno State’s Award-Winning Newspaper

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

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Jorge Rodriguez • The Collegian

Larry Valenzuela • The Collegian

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Post Malone fires up fans

Saturday's stars

'Dogs earn first win INSIDE :

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BULLDOGS BASKETBALL IS GEARING UP FOR THE SEASON

NEWS

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2019

GOT TIPS? We want to hear them. COLLEGIAN@CSUFRESNO.EDU

CSU Chancellor speaks on Gandhi's 150th higher education issues birthday and potential solutions

FRONT PAGE

By Marilyn Castaneda

By Jennifer Reyes

News Editor

Reporter

Fresno State hosted the “California Priorities: Focus on Education,” presented by The Fresno Bee, as an installment of the Influencer series. The event took a deep dive into the education issues faced within the region. This consisted of top educators and experts discussing critical issues and solutions in regard to education. Dr. Timothy P. White, chancellor of the California State University (CSU) system, said that families in and around the Central Valley are making similar sacrifices for their children on a daily basis to help themselves and their children. “Higher education has always been an escalator through social mobility,” White said. White is a first-generation college graduate who immigrated with his family from Argentina to Canada when he was young before settling in the Bay Area in California. He first stepped foot on Fresno State campus in the fall of 1967. He said that was the day he realized all the sacrifices his parents had made for him to have a bright future. California has calculated that, at the rate of bachelor degrees earned within the CSU and UC systems, there will be a shortage of more than one million bachelor's degrees from what the economy requires by 2030. White acknowledged this projected shortage but stated that the CSU system’s limits are being pushed. “The current demand in the CSU system has gone beyond capacity,” White said. The university system has hired tenured track faculty and has encouraged students to take more units in order to graduate within four years. California Gov. Gavin Newsom has made a major investment into the state’s higher education system, and there will be 12,000 additional students admitted into all 23 CSU campuses. About 700 of those students will be admitted to

Larry Valenzuela • The Collegian

Dr. Timothy P. White, chancellor of the CSU system speaks at the California Priorities: Focus on Education event held at the Satellite Student Union on Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2019. Fresno State, White said. With 100 influential Califorinans, The Sacramento Bee, Modesto Bee, Merced SunStar, Fresno Bee and San Luis Obispo Tribune launched their second consecutive year of The Influencer Series, bringing discussions about important issues in the state of California. Dr. Eimer O’Farrell, superintendent of the Clovis Unified School District; Ted Lempert, president of Children Now; Sarah Reyes, managing director of communications at The California Endowment; and Veva Islas, trustee member of the Fresno Unified School District discussed the lack of funding in Pre-K-12 education from Sacramento in the first panel, which was moderated by Fresno State professor and director of the Institute for Media and Public Trust Jim Boren. “We have the teachers. We have the knowledge. Everything we need to do it. We just need the funding to do it,” O’Farrell said. The lack of funding is a similar issue that higher education in California is currently facing and was discussed in the second panel, which was moderated by Joe Kieta, executive editor of The Fresno Bee with speakers Audrey Dow, director of the Campaign for College Op-

portunity; Dr. Joseph I. Castro, president of Fresno State; Dr. Carole Goldsmith, president of Fresno City College; and Fred Ruiz, a former member of the University of California board of regents. Fresno State turned away 8,000 students who applied to the university this academic school year due to a lack of room and resources on the campus. “We have students who are smart and bright and want to go to college and understand the importance of college,” Goldsmith said. “The fact that Joe [Castro] had to turn away 8,000 students; we should all be storming Sacramento saying, ‘This is an issue of equity and an issue of civil rights.’” Fresno State has been recognized for its academics, research and social mobility by various studies and publications. The university graduates about 6,000 students each year, 90 percent of whom are from the Central Valley. Nearly 80 percent of Fresno State graduates remain in the region after obtaining their degrees. “Our graduates are the future leaders of our region and our state, '' Castro said.

Fresno State will honor Mahatma Karamchand Gandhi’s 150th birthday with an exhibition and candlelight vigil for world peace next month. The celebration begins at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 2, at the Henry Madden Library Ellipse Gallery, where Fresno State President Dr. Joseph I. Castro will speak at the ribbon-cutting event opening the exhibition. It will focus on the lives of Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., Daisaku Ikeda and Cesar Chavez. It will remain open during library hours until Oct. 12. The candlelight vigil will run from 6 to 8:30 p.m., which includes a garlanding and flowering ceremony, guest speakers, classical dances and meditation. But the commemoration for Gandhi doesn’t stop there. The university will host various keynote speakers at Gandhi’s Global Legacy International Conference from Oct. 10 to 11 in the Alice Peters Auditorium (PB 191), the Peace Garden, Satellite Student Union and Wahlberg Recital Hall. The conference schedule and registration can be found on Fresno State’s department of philosophy’s website. A few days later, a Human Rights Coalition of the Central Valley event will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Oct. 14 in the North Gym. Guest speakers will be featured in celebration of the United Nations annual Human Rights Day commemoration. Peace activist, former member of parliament in South Africa and Gandhi’s granddaughter, Ela Gandhi, will speak at Fresno State at 7 p.m. on Oct. 14 in the North Gym. The event will be called, Ela Gandhi – “Gandhian Legacy and Challenges Ahead in the 21st Century: Personal Perspectives.” All events are free and open to the public. Parking is $5 from the daily parking permit dispensers. For additional information or special accommodations, contact the Fresno State department of philosophy at 559-278-2621.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2019

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THE COLLEGIAN • NEWS

Barking Bulldogs debate team earns recognition in Arizona tournament By Seth Casey Editor in Chief

Members of the Fresno State debate team, the Barking Bulldogs, earned both individual and team recognition at the Sun Devil Invitational Debate Tournament hosted by Arizona State University from Sept. 13 to 15 in Tempe, Arizona. The Bulldogs made up five competing teams in the tournament with two in the novice division, two in junior varsity and one in the varsity division. In junior varsity, teammates Jose Carlos Aceves and Sarah Saelee advanced to the semifinals of the tournament with four wins and two losses in the preliminary rounds but lost the final round, earning a third-place tournament finish. Aceves, however, earned a first-place speaker recognition for his efforts. “In my first semester, I got first speaker as

a novice. But now that I’m JV, this is my first big type of recognition,” Aceves said. “I’m really proud of our team. We got to that point because of our coach and our assistant coach, Primavera [Leal Martinez].” Aceves added that the team would have more work to do to get to where they want to be. The other junior varsity team of Scott Chapman and Lesly Salvador-Leon were able to make it through both the preliminary and semifinal rounds but then got eliminated in the final round and finished in second place overall. In doing so, Salvador-Leon earned a 10thplace speaker ranking. The first novice team, a hybrid team consisting of Fresno State student Payton Polanco and Southwestern College’s Isabella Avalos, earned three wins and two losses in the preliminary round, good enough to advance to the division finals. The team was eliminated in the finals but earned a second-place overall finish. Polanco, who was competing in his first tournament,

Fresno State's third year of Healthy Campus Week By Marilyn Castaneda News Editor

Healthy week on campus is back for its third year with yoga classes, walks and puppies. The series of events are part of the Healthy Campus Initiative launched by Fresno State in April 2017, in an effort to make the campus healthier through physical activity, food and nutrition guidelines. The week kicked off on Monday, Sept. 23, and runs through Friday, Sept. 27. Students were invited to take some time to de-stress from school or life by visiting the stress-free zone with pet therapy and bubbles from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Monday in front of the Kennel Bookstore. Then participants could walk along the onemile Bulldog Trail at the Fruit Walk from 10

a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesday for free fruit, a T-shirt and an exercise band. You may attend the Benefits Fair and Wellness Expo on Wednesday or participate in an outdoor yoga class from 12:15 to 12:45 p.m. on Thursday outside the Kennel Bookstore. The activity is part of Fresno State’s effort to host the largest physical activity in the nation, according to Fresno State news. Free T-shirts and prizes will be given out. And at the end of the week, a healthy meal will be available for $6 on Friday at the Residence Dining Hall. Look out for the fruit and veggie-costumed people and take a picture to enter to win a $100 Target gift card. Just use #HealthyCampus and tag @FSHealthPAWS in your posts. For more information, visit fresnostate. edu/healthycampus.

was ranked as the seventh-place speaker in the competition, despite having never debated before. It was also the first tournament for Demitria Wack and Joanna Lopez Sanchez, who made up the second novice team. The team was not able to advance beyond the preliminary rounds, but both debaters were individually recognized with Wack being ranked as the fourth-place speaker and Lopez Sanchez earning an eighthplace speaker nod. In the varsity division, Fresno State’s Aaron Lowe formed a hybrid team with Jaysyn Green from CSU Long Beach. The team finished with an even three wins and three losses. “I am very proud of the hard work that each and every student put in to prepare for this tournament,” said Tom Boroujeni, Fresno State director of debate. “Great job and congratulations on your achievements.” The team will travel to San Diego State University for its next tournament, the Aztec Invitational, from Oct. 4 to 6.

Next debate tournament

Oct. 4-6 The debate team will travel to San Diego for its next tournament

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THE COLLEGIAN • NEWS

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2019

Robert Costa to make 4th visit By Anjanae Freitas Reporter

Robert Costa, a national political reporter for The Washington Post and moderator for PBS, will return to Fresno State to speak starting on Tuesday, Oct. 1 at 7 p.m. at the Save Mart Center (SMC). Fresno State President Dr. Joseph I. Castro will carry on his four-year tradition of the President Lecture Series, for which he invites national guests to campus to inform the community on the political matters that could potentially affect the Central Valley. Costa will moderate a panel composed of four Fresno State students and faculty to discuss national issues. On the panel will be Rachel Lewis, a Smittcamp scholar and student journalist for The Collegian and Madera

Tribune; Dr. List Bryant, a Fresno State political science professor; Dr. James Rocham, a Fresno State philosophy professor; and Omar Hernandez, an animal science major and president and CEO of Fresno State's Associated Students, Inc. Following the panel discussion will be the President’s Lecture with Costa in which he will discuss recent events regarding President Donald J. Trump, his views on the 2020 election, the current U.S. Congress and his insight on the political climate for both parties. The event will close with Costa answering questions from the audience. Costa is also a political analyst for NBC News and MSNBC. His daily reporting includes in-depth coverage of both Congress and the White House. He has also recently interviewed Trump, Vice President Michael R. Pence, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi

and several Democratic presidential candidates. “Community members who attend this event will learn fascinating and thought-provoking insights from Robert Costa, who has first-hand interactions with President Trump and members of Congress,” Castro said in a university news release. “I’m pleased to welcome back Mr. Costa, who has developed close ties with our journalism students and faculty since his first campus visit in 2017.” SMC doors will open at 5:30 p.m. for security measures to be taken to action, where no backpacks will be allowed. The event will be free and open to the public, along with free parking at the SMC. For any additional information or disability accommodations, call 559278-2424.

Courtesy Fresno State

Immigration services Lunch fundraiser donates money to students affected by fire provided at CSUs By Jennifer Reyes Reporter

Fresno State has begun providing immigration legal services for students and employees, along with other California State University (CSU) campuses. The new services provided throughout all CSU campuses were made possible by a onetime state allocation of $7 million. Fresno State is working with Immigrant Legal Defense, which is one of four providers contracted with the California Department of Social Services to deliver expertise and information. “As the coordinator of the Dream Success Center (DSC), I wanted to make sure I provided services that are meaningful to our students to help them navigate their education and their future career process, and this is one way we assist all students,” Gaby Encinas said. “It is important to me that students feel supported and valued on this campus.” The DSC began offering its free immigration legal services on Sept. 16.

Students, faculty and staff have the opportunity to consult with attorneys and also hear a presentation and learn about issues that Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) students currently are facing. The services can vary from receiving confidential consultations to DACA renewals to immigration remedies, all depending on what the individual may need. As of right now, Fresno State shares eight attorneys with Cal State East Bay, San Francisco State, San Jose State, CSU Monterey Bay, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, CSU Bakersfield and Stanislaus State. Fresno State may see anywhere from two to three attorneys twice a month. Based on the needs of the campus, the visits may increase in frequency. Encinas said that to help students graduate, knowledge of available resources is key. “Our goals are to retain and graduate all our students. For our students, often times they may lack the resources of the networks,” Encinas said. “This is a network that they have available to their disposal. It's all to help them remain in school and graduate.”

By Larry Valenzuela Opinion Editor

Campus Pointe was a site of giving this weekend as dozens of community members showed up to help raise money for victims of the Maplewood Apartment fires. The Lunch For Love fundraiser was held from 1 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21, in the center of Campus Pointe. The Soares Team, led by Sean Soares and Chelsea Soares, organized the fundraiser with help from the Clovis and Fresno fire departments and Rise Church. As part of the fundraiser, 20 percent of the proceeds sold at Pieology, Wahoos, The Mad Duck, Que Pasa and Five Guys were donated to the victims. As people made their way to the five restaurants, they were entertained by musical performances from Kat the Musician, Kevin Hayashi and Josh Aschenbrenner. Sean Soares said he felt compelled to do something after he had heard his family friend, Racine Babb, was living in one of the 14 apartments that was burned in the fire.

Soares said they began fundraising and raised a decent amount of money for Babb but felt he could do more. “So we sprung to action to raise as much money as we could for her, and we raised a decent chunk of money,” Soares said. “And then we started thinking about the other victims and how they may not have the same network of people to help them out, and we felt compelled to give back to the community.” Babb, one of the victims of the fire, said that things are slowly starting to return to a state of normalcy for her through the help of her friends. “I feel so much love and support,” Babb said. “They’re family friends – the people that put on the event – and they help me a lot, just me personally, in supporting and I’m glad they opened up their hearts to help everyone that was affected. I'm just glad all the restaurants were there to help out.” Babb also said she now has a new place to live but is very grateful that Fresno State opened up the dorms for her to stay for a while as she did her credential program and played on the soccer team.

A&E

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2019

COLLEGIAN.CSUFRESNO.EDU

Fresno's Reel Pride Film Festival returns By Christina Tran | A&E Editor Fresno’s Reel Pride Film Festival celebrated its 30th anniversary this year, with its roots beginning in a classroom on the Fresno State campus. Two Fresno State students came up with the idea and vision to have a film festival solely dedicated to the personal experiences and the importance of advocating for groups in the LGBTQ+ community. This year’s festival started on Wednesday, Sept. 18 and continued through Sunday, Sept. 22 at the Tower Theatre, 815 E. Olive Ave., and Vista Theatre, 1296 N. Wishon Ave., in the Tower District. Tickets were available for $10 for each film. Festivalgoers could also purchase a festival pass for $95, which included an invitation to a pride kick-off party, admission to the opening night gala and closing night reception, admission to

Larry Valenzuela • The Collegian

The Tower Theatre is located at 815 E. Olive Ave. and was one of the theaters screening f ilms for Fresno's Reel Pride Film Festival f rom Sept. 18 through Sept. 22.

all film screenings and recognition in Fresno's Reel Pride Festival’s program. To make viewing the films more accessible to the younger generation, tickets were also discounted when a valid school ID was shown. For Fresno State students living on campus, free bus transportation made commuting an option to go to and from the Tower District when using a valid Fresno State ID card. There were a variety of film genres shown, including documentaries, comedies, dramas and more. One of the closing night films, “Adam” featured star actor Nicholas Alexander, best known in the vampire drama TV show, “The Originals” on Sunday, Sept. 22 at 7 p.m. in the Tower Theatre. As one of the largest LGBTQ+ film festivals in the U.S., and only the sixth oldest, the crowds have continued to return year after year to screen new films and documentaries from the U.S. and abroad.

Creative writing heals author's trauma By Christina Tran A&E Editor

Creative nonfiction author Lacy M. Johnson laid down the bare history of her life as she discussed her healing processes of escaping an abusive partner who had kidnapped and threatened to kill her for years. As part of The Normal School nonfiction reading series, Johnson was introduced as the chosen speaker who had published excerpts included in the literary magazine for an audience of 45 Fresno State students, faculty and the public on Friday, Sept. 20, 2019 in the Phebe Conley Art Auditorium Building’s Room 101 from 8 to 9:30 p.m. The main themes of her two books, “The Other Side” and “The Reckonings,” focused on her survival as a sexual assault victim and her journey of overcoming her post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and fears of the man who has forever changed her life. “In my story there was once a man I loved very much and because of the self destructive way in which I loved him I didn’t want to leave him when he abused me, first with his words and then with his fists,” Johnson read from “The Reckonings.” “I told myself I could fix

him, that this wasn’t who he was, not really. I let him keep showing me who he really was until I finally believed him and left.” Johnson exposed the deepest parts of her inner self to literary fans and newcomers of her writing. The fear of seeing her abuser in other men as she goes about her daily life contrasts strongly with her own beliefs that justice in America strikes the immediate impulse for perceiving punishment for wrongdoers through the finality of execution and death. A question that repetitively is asked by audiences nationwide at Johnson’s book readings and events surround the same insistent concern: “What do you want to have happen to him, the man that did this to you?” In response to this, the idea of vengeance and retribution was brought up as an ancient idea that Americans seem to hang onto in taking “an eye for an eye.” If someone does something bad, then the reciprocative effect should be that something bad happens to them. That is justice being served to most, but Johnson disagrees. By transforming the pain, the trauma and the fear of what she has lived through, Johnson fights this stigma of accepting that righteous justice for her abuser would simply succumb to his death.

“

I've called myself a writer now more than half of my life, and during all this time, I have learned that sometimes the hardest and most important work I have done has been turning a story I couldn't tell into one that I can." — Lacy M. Johnson, creative nonfiction author

Instead, the hope is that Johnson’s abuser gets the help he needs so he no longer remains a threat to anyone anymore. Violent people shouldn’t be thrown away because they did a bad thing, Johnson said. The takeaway for audience members on Friday was to remain vigil in understanding the context of where someone has come from and that there is no redemption for what happens to victims of assault if the only concern is to cause blood, death and revenge for satisfaction of the crime committed. “I’ve called myself a writer now more than half of my life and during all this time I have learned that sometimes the hardest and most important work I have done has been turning a story I couldn’t tell into one that I can,” Johnson read from “The Other Side.” The last 30 minutes of Johnson’s time at Fresno State was left for audience members to ask any questions regarding her life in general, her process of creative writing and inquiries about specific excerpts and life events from her published books. The reading event was hosted by the Fine Arts Program in Creative Writing. Johnson's books were available for purchase, “The Other Side” for $17.25 and “The Reckonings” for $28.25.

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THE COLLEGIAN • A&E WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2019

REVIEW

Post Malone rocks SMC stage on Saturday

Larry Valenzuela • The Collegian

American rapper Post Malone paused for a moment during the song "Better Now" at the Save Mart Center on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019.

By Marilyn Castaneda News Editor

Post Malone brought the heat to the Save Mart Center (SMC) for his near-sellout performance Saturday night. No really, there were smoke machines and fire blazing from the stage as fans watched Malone belt out some of his biggest hits on Sept. 21. Malone made a stop in Fresno for his Runaway tour after releasing his newest album and the second biggest debut of any album in 2019 thus far, “Hollywood’s Bleeding.” He is on tour with artist Swae Lee, who could not make it to the show on Saturday. Tyla Yaweh, a young Florida rapper who was signed by Post Malone, opened the show. The rapper sang some of his singles, like “She Bad” and danced his way through the crowd as he sang “Drugs and Pain.” As an opener, Yaweh tried to amp up the crowd as he jumped and stomped on the stage during his set. However, his energy did not quite match-up with the audience for some songs. It's safe to say not everyone knew all of his lyrics. But as for Malone, whose given name is Austin Richard Post, he managed to tie together 21 songs during the two-hour performance. The majority of the songs were from his newest album, but he also pleased the crowd by pulling songs from his earlier albums, like “Go Flex” and “Psycho.” The crowd sang along to fan favorites, such as “White Iverson” and “Sunflower.” Malone

also didn’t fail to deliver the hit song “Rockstar,” which features 21 Savage. The performance included Malone smashing a guitar, stomping on it and Larry Valenzuela • The Collegian then pouring his drink on it, like a American rapper Post Malone performed the song "Saint-Tropez" at the Save Mart rockstar would. Center on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019. The show took place on a single piece of runway stage that extended a short way into the floor audience, leaving the FREE PIZZA WITH CURRENT ID performers to walk back and forth while singing. A mic stand and acoustic guitar were the Informational only props. Although, the laser lights displaying different colors added an appealing look. Presentation In all fairness, Malone delivered a great show. But compared to other shows, like in October 9, 2019 2018 at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, the Noon - 1PM Fresno performance just didn’t come close. The show in L.A. was sold out, and Malone brought high-profile guest artists to join him, such as Vintage Room Justin Bieber, G-Eazy and 21 Savage. Located in University Center It was surprising to see that the show in Fresno didn’t sell out, considering how popular Persons with disabilities that anticipate the headliner was. needing accommodations or have Malone had ventured to Fresno once before questions about physical access on Dec. 9, 2018, when fans spotted him at the HAVE QUESTIONING ABOUT contact Debra Penner SMC as an attendee for a Metallica concert. 559-278-7317 PARKING ON CAMPUS? With crowded lines that surrounded the SMC stretched out to get into the building for Saturday’s concert, some empty sections and FRESNO STATE single seats remained amiss throughout the TRAFFIC OPERATIONS performance’s entirety. 2311 E. Barstow Ave. Maybe more Fresnans will sell out his next Fresno, CA 93740 visit.

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THE COLLEGIAN • A&E

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Homecoming committee reveals 2019 theme: Unleash The Bulldog Spirit By Christina Tran A&E Editor

The month of October has been much anticipated, as it hosts the festive week of Homecoming from Oct. 21 through 27. To kick off the excitement, University Student Union (USU) Productions held an event on Sept. 24 to reveal this year’s Homecoming theme in the USU Pit and Balcony from 12 to 1 p.m. A line of students wrapped around the USU for the reveal celebration, which included free ice cream, as well as giveaways for Homecoming’s Big Show, featuring T-Pain, and the Fresno State marching band was present to provide an energetic atmosphere to the event. There was also an area set up for students to “bless the homecoming football” and take photos with an official Fresno State backdrop. Shortly after the event began, a poster was

hung up in the USU Pit to advertise Homecoming’s theme for 2019: Unleash The Bulldog Spirit. The Fresno State Homecoming committee has also put together an official Spotify playlist that is online for the public to listen to before buying tickets for the campus-hosted concert in October. The playlist specifically includes artists such as T-Pain, MAX, VIAA and Fresno’s DJ Kay Rich. It can be found by looking up Homecoming Big Show 2019 in the search bar of Spotify. Tickets for the Homecoming Big Show on Oct. 23 at 7 p.m. in the Save Mart Center (SMC) are still available for students, alumni, faculty and staff to purchase at the USU Information Center, SMC Box Office or online at ticketmaster.com. The price of tickets are $15 for students, $33 for faculty, staff and alumni; after Oct. 20, ticket costs will be raised by an additional $5.

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FRESNO

OPINION

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2019

GOT OPINIONS? We want to hear them. COLLEGIAN@CSUFRESNO.EDU

It's your future; you should vote for it By Anjanae Freitas Reporter

The ice is melting here. Let’s stop pretending things are getting better in our country because they are not. Voting is the only way to make the changes you want to see in the world. Sept. 24 was National Voter Registration Day, which is, in my opinion, one of the most important holidays of the year. Are you registered to vote? What about your family and friends? If you are someone who cares about this country, you should be taking action to register to vote right now. I remember when I first turned 18, I had no idea where to go to vote or how. I felt embarrassed because I wanted to seem educated or “woke,” but I was not. I researched. I educated myself by listening to and learning from people who had wisdom to teach me. It is not embarrassing to ask questions. It is embarrassing to do nothing and act as if there are not serious issues going on in our country. By not voting, you are part of the problem

of people who complain about what needs to be changed while doing nothing about it. The real length of time necessary for change to happen in is a marathon, it requires time. Activism is not as sexy as people make it seem. Activism doesn’t come with the win you have after a sports game or the feeling you get when it is the weekend. Activsim is committing to showing up even when you do not want to. It is learning, even if you do not understand. It is doing the right thing. And it is even admitting to the fact that what you once thought was right was not. Part of voting is recognizing our privilege. If you look at voting as a want rather than a need, you are blind to the fact that you are someone in this country who is privileged enough to not be affected by the political issues going on in our country. It is not about arguing that you are not privileged, it is about fixing it. There is a reason why there is a level of consciousness being raised in this country, and there is another reason why this reality television show is our president. A lot of Americans want to assume that we

Christine Giroux exits the voting booth at Transit Town Hall Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018 in Sibley County, Minn. The curtains, an ode the American flag, were sewn by a past election official. (Leila Navidi/Minneapolis Star Tribune/TNS) have grown past these social issues by having female or minority candidates, but there lies yet another part of the privilege. The fallout in our country in this given moment is indicative of the grossness that is going on. However, we, as a country, have to do the

work because we are on the edge of falling right back into losing all of the progress that has been made as the pieces we have built up were collapsing. There are many wake up calls in life. It is up to you to wake and answer. Now is not the time to hit snooze. Now is the time to vote.

Bad Bunny is the greatest of all time By Hector Mendoza Reporter

Many people think that all Spanish music is mariachi, banda and merengue. People have the assumption that Spanish music is boring and generic. There is a new wave of music that has made a huge impact not only in the Latin community but very recently here in the U.S. and that’s Spanish trap – a mixture of dancehall, trap music and reggaeton.

The Collegian is a studentrun publication that serves the Fresno State community. Views expressed in The Collegian do not necessarily reflect the views of the staff or university.

One of the most influential artists in the genre is Bad Bunny. Bad Bunny started making music while working at a supermarket in Puerto Rico. He began making music for SoundCloud until DJ Luian heard his music and signed him to his Hear This Music label. To me, he is the greatest artist of not only this genre but of all time. He has had 15 songs on Billboard's Hot Latin Songs chart, and he went mainstream in a big way, scoring a Hot 100 chart-topper with his feature on Cardi B’s summer jam “I Like It.”

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Bad Bunny may not be in many people’s Mount Rushmore of artists, but he should be considered. The reason is because he has made many singles and has come out with two albums, and not one song that he has come out with has been bad. He wasn’t very well-known here in the U.S. He was only known by people who had been listening to that genre of music. When he came out with songs like “I Like It” and “MIA,” he made a huge splash here. I never used to hear cars playing Bad Bunny. Now, many people are blasting Bad Bunny and

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are talking about him. Not only does he come out with the best music, but he also has had a positive impact on his community back in Puerto Rico and in the U.S. Bad Bunny donated $100,000 to the Society of Education and Rehabilitation (SER) of Puerto Rico to help children with disabilities. He also dedicated the song “Estamos Bien” to the Hurricane Maria victims on “The Tonight Show.” Bad Bunny may not appeal to all, but he should be regarded as the greatest artist of all time.

Jovanni Cardenas Joy Lyle Daisy Dellinger Alessandra Mazman Jacob Mulick Jeff Vinogradoff Zachary Perkins Richard Marshall Kevin Fries Jan Edwards Timothy Drachlis Betsy Hays

The Collegian carries four different ethnic supplements inserted several times throughout each semester into its print publication. Each supplement is produced by its own staff and advisers and is separate from The Collegian. The news stories or opinions in the supplements do not reflect those of The Collegian.

Each member of the campus community is permitted a copy of The Collegian. Subscriptions are available for $25, on a semester basis. Staff positions at The Collegian are open to students of all majors. All content Copyright © 2018 The Collegian. Letters to the Editor (collegian@csufresno.edu): All letters submitted to The Collegian should be between 250-500 words in length, must be type-written, and must be accompanied by a full name and phone number to verify content. The Collegian reserves the right to edit all material for length, content, spelling and grammar, as well as the right to refuse publication of any material submitted. All material submitted to The Collegian becomes property of The Collegian.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2019

THE COLLEGIAN • OPINION

PAGE 9

The Kennel You can graduate at your own rate Bookstore is far too overpriced It is about patching yourself back up, through it – not around it. Growing up, I was taught that living in a constant state of restriction, burnout and forcing myself to pretend I was OK was how you

know a few things that I wish I had known. Your mental health is the most important priority in your life. It should always be prioritized over anything and anyone. It is OK if you are failing school. There are many resources right here on our campus to help you through this process. There is a reason our Student Health and Counseling Center offers free therapy sessions, and there is a reason why Services for Students

deal with mental health. However, as an adult, that mentality slowly caught up with me. I thought that I had to take 22 units, work full time and never allow myself to have enough time in the day to even think. That, in my mind, was what a successful person looked like. Someone who could do it all. I want you to know that, right now, if you are struggling to find the balance of school and mental health, you are not alone. I want you to know that sleepless nights and lying awake with anxiety, wondering if you will be able to graduate, is normal. Take the time to remind yourself that college is not a race, and as much as society likes us to think that college has to be done in four years, that misconception is what creates the pressure for students to feel like we are failing or going to fail. My first two years of college, I was grieving a family death, struggling with my mental and physical health, skipping class and feeling lost. It was in my second year of college that I received an email that I was being put on academic probation for failing classes. I remember feeling like my life was worthless, and I judged myself for how terrible I was doing academically.

with Disabilities is here to help you. These two organizations, in themselves, offer you the ability to talk to someone through your pain and frustration and allow you options to have additional help in your classes from note takers to alleviating classes because of a mental illness that makes it challenging for you to function in your everyday life. Two years later, through the work of therapy, reaching out for help and the understanding that it is OK to trust the process of not knowing where life is going, I made it to Fresno State, and I am on track to graduate this spring. I would be lying if I said life is all rainbows and butterflies. But that is the beauty of growth and fighting your battles. You grow through what you go through. No matter how low you may feel or how hard it is to struggle while you are trying to persevere through school, you have more resilience than you will ever know. It is OK to graduate in six years instead of four. It is OK to take time off to better yourself. It is OK to have to work more to pay for school instead of taking more units. It is OK to not be OK. You are allowed to be both a masterpiece and a work in progress, simultaneously.

By Anjanae Freitas Reporter

By Jennifer Reyes Reporter

Anyone who has attended a university, community college or a private school may know that the tuition fee can be exorbitant. For many students, tuition and student fees can cause financial struggle. The pride and joy that comes from earning a degree is great. But the idea of supporting the university 100 percent by buying all sorts of clothing, accessories and home decor at such a markup at the Kennel Bookstore and The Bulldog Shop is outrageous. However, that does not stop many students from supporting their university, and sporting the school’s logo, even if that means regularly purchasing a new sweatshirt, shirt, shorts or other paraphernalia. Have you ever thought that the merchandise you find at the school’s bookstore is a bit overpriced? Simply attending a higher education institution is already expensive itself. But why should an item with a school logo pasted on it also be so costly? Recently, I have been interested in investing in Fresno State merchandise, given the fact that this is my fourth year at Fresno State. I have finally made up my mind that I would like to support the university as much as I can. Fresno State is a great school, recognized by the opportunities that it gives its students. Who would not want to support their school? I have looked into different websites, including the Kennel Bookstore and other stores, such as Walmart to take a look and compare their prices. There is a website called Fanatics that has merchandise for NFL, MLB and NBA, but also universities that offer anything from a clothing item to a phone case. The website always seems to have sales and shipping discounts. For example, a Nike brand long-sleeved shirt with a big Bulldog logo costs $10 less than the Kennel Bookstore price, which is $42.99. Any sale prices are better than the regular prices. So why are Fresno State students paying extra to support their own school?

Ron Borresen's color illustration of a man's exposed brain balancing sports, work and entertainment. (Bradenton Herald 2006) I wanted to talk to someone, but I did not know how or even to whom. I wanted to be OK, but I was not. When the six-month break from school began, I used this time to understand why I had gotten to this low point in my life. After I realized that I was trying to grieve while trying to focus in class, I understood how unhealthy this coping mechanism of burnout and avoidance was. I was too anxious to sit in class and often too depressed to put clothes on. So if you are reading this right now and you find yourself in the same boat, I want you to

The necessity of reminders By Rachel Lewis Reporter

In college, there is an expectation that students have their lives together. They are expected to get to class on time and are not forced to attend every day of school and every class period. Students are expected to be self-sufficient, knowing what they have to do, when they have to do it and getting it done without excuse. I fully recognize and appreciate this expectation, but I would also appreciate the occasional reminder that something is due. Since I started college, I have noticed that

a good portion of my professors do not inform the class that they have to read three 20-page articles by the next class or that an abstract is due the next day. The expectation that students know everything that is happening in every class they take at all times is ridiculous. There should be a courtesy reminder when assignments need to be turned in rather than this blind hope that students have scoured through the 16-page syllabus for the 100th time that day to find the exact collection of stuff that needs to get done. This process is only exacerbated when professors are behind or ahead on the syllabus or

do not even adhere to what their syllabus outlines in the first place. If there is no discussion on that part of the professor about what students are expected to have prepared by next class, then students are shoved into a corner. They have no guidance on what they’re supposed to be prioritizing, so they’re buried under the vast array of possible assignments and readings they may be expected to have prepared. I know we aren’t in high school anymore. But even the best of us need a reminder once in a while and a little help fishing out what we are supposed to have done in order to remain on top of our school work.

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THE COLLEGIAN • SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2019

COVER STORY

Wednesday Warm-up: 'AllAmerican Wrecking Ball' By Anthony De Leon Managing Editor

At the end of three quarters and with an uncomfortably realistic possibility of an 0-3 start staring Fresno State football team in the face, whispers of scrutiny for losing to an FCS team were creeping in, and the Bulldogs only had one man to turn to. Josh Hokit, the “All-American Wrecking Ball.” With the score knotted up at 20-20 with less than 12 minutes to go, the Bulldogs turned to their stud running back—who just so happens to also be an All-American wrestler in his spare time—in crunch time to avoid the embarrassment of losing to Sacramento State. Despite being an FCS team, Sacramento State’s defense was stout against the run, coming into the Week 4 matchup against the Bulldogs averaging 1.8 yards per rushing play and 59.3 yards per game (YPG). In the final two drives for the Bulldogs, with the game on the line, Hokit ran for a combined 65 of his overall 72 yards with big runs of 14 and 10 yards during the first drive as the Bulldogs capped off with a Derrion “The Grim Reaper” Grim plunge. The second drive was once again all Hokit as the ‘Dogs essentially iced the game while riding high on the back of Hokit with rushes of 9, 1, 5 and a final 14-yard touchdown allowing the ‘Dogs to go up by two scores. Despite having to fill in at halfback due to injuries, Hokit has been a godsend for the Bulldogs this season, especially in Saturday’s game, converting a 14-yard reception into a touchdown and plowing into the endzone for a 2-yard touchdown before the final two drives. Head coach Jeff Tedford spoke about how important Hokit was for the run game and highlighted the area where Hokit thrived against Sacramento State. “He (Hokit) and Ronnie (Rivers) are our two backs, and we have a lot of confidence in Josh,” said Tedford in the post-game press conference. “He catches the ball well. He pass protects well and he runs hard … He is a hardnosed tough kid, and I thought he played really well tonight." It was quite refreshing to see Tedford relying on the run game during the final crucial few series and grinding down the defense—which had been difficult to crack up until that point— instead of relying on risk/reward plays.

Reyna Watch And now an update on everyone’s least-favorite quarterback—those of you know who you are—Jorge Reyna. After taking a mental break thanks to the bye week following the Minnesota and USC games, Reyna was able to bounce back for a decent performance against Sacramento State. Reyna was efficient in spreading the ball around to nine different Bulldog skill players as he broke the 300-yard passing mark for the first time in his career, throwing for 326 yards on 28 of 42 completions and two touchdowns. The most telling takeaway from Reyna’s performance was the fact that despite having two fumbles and three interceptions in the first two games, including two during the most crucial plays of his career, he was able to play turnover free football. And as the Bulldogs began to incorporate more of the run game, Reyna continued to show that he has the ability to get much-needed yardage with his legs adding 36 rushing yards to his season total. These are the types of performances you want from Reyna, a performance very reminiscent of Marcus McMaryion, doing just enough to keep his team in the game and get the ball into the hands of his play makers, allowing them to use their skills to win the game. Kicking with two left feet Before Saturday’s game, the Bulldogs believed they found a gem in College of San Mateo transfer kicker Cesar Silva after the junior connected on 5 of 6 field goal attempts in the first two games, including a 48-yard blast against Minnesota, and a perfect 9 for 9 on point after attempts (PAT). But Silva — who I have dubbed “Silver Leg” — looked more like “Copper Leg” following his 0 for 3 night, shanking each of his three field goal attempts to the right from distances of 49, 35 and 35. Silva did manage to be perfect on each PAT, which was his saving grace. The Bulldogs do have backup kicker Asa Fuller, who was relegated to kickoff duties before the start of the season, if Tedford decides to make the switch. Fuller was 14 of 22 on field goals in 2018 and 57 of 62 in PATs, which isn’t much more reassuring than Silva. Luckily for Silva, Tedford still has confidence in his starting kicker and chalked up the wide right misses to things not going Silva’s

Armando Carreno • The Collegian

Fresno State running back Josh Hokit barrels over Sacramento State defenders during 34-20 victory at Bulldog Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019. way. “It was just one of those nights that didn't go his way, and we need to go back and correct it. But we know he is a good kicker,” Tedford said. “We have to keep his confidence high, get him to examine the tape and what his fundamentals were, but he will bounce back ... I have confidence in that." Journey to the ‘Land of Enchantment’ Up next for the ‘Dogs is their last out-of-conference matchup and their last “tune-up” game against the 0-4 New Mexico State Aggies (NMSU), before they travel to Colorado to start Mountain West (MW) play against Air Force. The Aggies entered the season with one of the toughest opening schedules in the nation, starting their season on the road against thenranked No. 23 Washington State and No. 2 Alabama, and following up those matchups with a home game against San Diego State. Each of the Aggies’ first three games ended in predictable and horrid fashion losing by scores of 58-7, 62-10 and 31-10. But the Aggies will be entering the game against the ‘Dogs with a bit more confidence than they have had in the first three weeks, as they are coming off a narrow 55-52 defeat in a shootout reminiscent of a spaghetti western against bitter rivals and Fresno State MW cohort, New Mexico (NM). The one bright spot for the Aggies is that quarterback Josh Adkins may have found a

rhythm, as he now currently sits 33rd in the nation in passing yards with 1,000 yards. And after offensive ineptitude in the first three games, Adkins is coming off a stellar showing against NM, scoring six touchdowns in NMSU’s harrowing loss last weekend. Following a pick six to start off the game, Adkins found his rhythm and was responsible for much of the offensive output against the Lobos, throwing for 30 of 47 for 335 yards, three touchdowns and one interception. The 6-2, 220-pound Adkins was also effective near the goal line for three touchdowns. Despite last week’s offensive explosion, NMSU ranks 115th in the nation in scoring offense averaging 19.8 points per game and has one of the worst point differentials in the nation, 206-79. The Aggies also boast the 109th total offense in the nation averaging a meager 349.3 yards per game on nearly 5 yards per play. The Aggie defensive side of the ball has been just as abysmal as the offense, ranking second to last at 129th in the nation in both total defense and scoring defense allowing an excessive 554 ypg, 51.50 ppg on 25 touchdowns and nearly 8 yards per play. Barring a massive offensive explosion like NMSU had against NM, the Bulldogs should have an easytime against their former Western Athletic Conference foe despite having to travel to Las Cruces, as they look to make it 18 out of 19 in the all-time series.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2019

Weekend sports review By Jorge Rodriguez | Sports Editor Volleyball The Fresno State women’s volleyball team participated in the Roadrunner Classic over the weekend. CSU Bakersfield, San Francisco University and UC Davis were also part of the tournament that took place in Bakersfield, California. On Friday, the Bulldogs faced UC Davis, losing to the Aggies in four sets, 25-18, 25-20, 17-25 and 25-17. The Bulldogs' overall record dropped to an even 5-5 for the season. However, they had two opportunities to change that on Saturday. During the first game on Saturday, the Bulldogs faced San Francisco, which held an overall record of 4-5. Fresno State swept San Francisco in three sets, 25-23, 25-23 and 25-22, giving the Bulldogs their first win of the classic. In their final weekend game, the Bulldogs faced CSU Bakersfield, a rematch of a loss the ‘Dogs suffered at home during the Bulldog Invitational. The Bulldogs took the win in decisive fashion by sweeping the Roadrunners in three sets, 25-15, 25-16, 25-16. Fresno State’s overall record improved to

PAGE 11

THE COLLEGIAN • SPORTS

7-6 during the weekend. Outside hitter Desiree Sukhov was named All-Tournament with 41 kills, 26 digs and 10 blocks. The Bulldogs will face off against the University of Nevada on Thursday night at the Save Mart Center. Equestrian The Fresno State women’s equestrian team opened its season this past weekend, starting with a match against the University of South Carolina on Friday. The ‘Dogs lost the match with a score of 8-11, dropping their first game of the season. However, the Bulldogs found redemption on Saturday when they faced Sweet Briar College on a Jumping Seat only event. Fresno State defeated Sweet Briar College, 6-4, winning their first competition of the season. Later that same day, the ‘Dogs faced the University of Lynchburg, again in a Jumping Seat only competition. Fresno State was able to defeat Lynchburg with a score of 6-2, giving the Bulldogs a second win on the day. The Bulldogs equestrian team will be back home on Saturday, Oct. 4, when they host TCU for the first Big 12 Conference game of the sea-

son. Men’s Tennis The Fresno State men’s tennis team traveled to Columbia, South Carolina, over the weekend, participating in the Gamecock Fall Invitational hosted by the University of South Carolina. The Bulldogs' Angus Bradshaw and Zdenek Derkas both competed in the tournament in singles and later paired for doubles. Bradshaw was able to defeat his first opponent of the tournament and was able to advance to the quarter finals where he was defeated in two sets. Derkas, who is ranked number 63 in the nation and number five in the tournament, advanced to the semifinals where he was defeated in two sets. In doubles matchup, both Derkas and Bradshaw automatically advanced to the quarterfinals after the University of North Carolina team withdrew from the match. In the quarterfinals, the Bulldogs lost the match against the team from the University of Miami. The Bulldogs will get ready to host the Bulldog Fall Classic on the weekend of Oct. 4 to 6.

'Dogs top Sac State at home By Hector Mendoza Reporter

The Fresno State football team got its first win of the season against Sacramento State 3420 Saturday night at Bulldog Stadium. Coming into the game, Fresno State had a 0-2 record, losing to both USC at the Coliseum and the University of Minnesota at home. The Hornets came into this game following a 50-0 win against Northern Colorado, carrying a 2-1 record. Fresno State head coach Jeff Tedford praised the team after the game for its resilience because of the struggles the team had in the third quarter but were still able to keep their heads up and finish with a win. “We have to clean some stuff up. But we were fortunate to win the game tonight,” Tedford said after the win.

ONLINE: for more on this story, visit our website: fresnostate.edu/collegian

Second half goal gives Bulldogs a win By Marc Anthony Lopez Contributor

The Fresno State women’s soccer team bounced back from a 3-0 loss to UC Santa Barbara with a win against the UC Riverside Highlanders Sunday afternoon. The Bulldogs’ record heading into conference play is now 4-2-1. The first half of the game against the Highlanders was an even bout. Each team would attempt a shot on goal but then would be matched with a save from the goalie. The only stat differential from the first half would be the Highlanders having one more corner kick than the Bulldogs. By the time they reached halftime, the Bulldogs and the Highlanders were at a 0-0 standstill. The second half was a different story. Both teams came back more aggressive. However, the Bulldogs were the ones able to use that ag-

gression and convert it into what would be the only score. That lone score would come from Fresno State forward Sydney Lunt, with an assist from Robyn McCarthy, with 34 minutes left in the second half. This goal was Lunt’s first of the season. Lunt stated that she wasn’t sure if the ball was going in or not off of McCarthy’s header, but once she saw the ball pop out, she took advantage. “This was a must-win game,” Lunt said. “We couldn’t let this one go past us.” Both the Highlanders and the Bulldogs had seven shots on offense, as well as three saves from each of their goalies. UC Riverside walked away from the game with eight corner kicks, as well as the only two yellow cards in the game. The two yellow cards were given to Highlanders’ forward Kameron Henry and midfielder Natza Marin after some brutal fouls on

the Bulldogs. One of these fouls would cause a member of the Bulldogs to go down with an injury. UC Riverside’s best opportunity came as the second half was coming to a close. The pressure was on for the Bulldogs’ defense as the Highlanders had three straight corner kicks. The defense answered the call and managed to stop any shots. Fresno State head coach Brian Zwaschka was proud of the team’s effort on Sunday, especially after the “disappointing trip to Santa Barbara.” Zwaschka said he wanted to make sure the team was going to improve upon its skills so it can be prepared for the beginning of conference play this upcoming weekend. “Today was about making sure that we shore up some things that we’ve been working on and some mistakes that we made over the last couple of games, and I think we did a good job,” Zwaschka said.

Jorge Rodriguez • The Collegian

Fresno State's midfielder Tori Nicolo slides to save the ball during a match at the Soccer and Lacrosse Stadium on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019.

SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2019

COLLEGIAN.CSUFRESNO.EDU

FRONT PAGE

5 'Dogs fight their way into the top 25 By Hector Mendoza Reporter

Larry Valenzuela • The Collegian

From left to right: Fresno State point guard Noah Blackwell, guard Aguir Agau and head coach Justin Hutson talks with the media members during Fresno State's baskteball media day on Sept. 23, 2019.

Bulldog basketball looking to capitalize on 2018 success By Jorge Rodriguez Sports Editor

A new season of Fresno State men’s basketball is just a few months away and the anticipation to see second year head coach Justin Hutson’s team on the court is being felt all around campus. The Bulldogs will open their 2019-2020 season on Nov. 5, when they travel to Eugene, Oregon, to face the University of Oregon Ducks. Besides the Ducks, the Bulldogs will visit another Pac 12 opponent Cal in mid December. The ‘Dogs will open conference play against San Diego State University on New Year’s Day in San Diego. Fresno State finished last season with an overall record of 23-9 and a conference record of 13-5, good enough for third place in the Mountain West conference and a trip to the Mountain West Championship Tournament. This will be Hutson’s second year with the team. He said that last year was a special year and he enjoyed the 23 wins and the exciting style his team had. Hutson also thanked the seniors who

bought into his coaching style right away on his first year with the team. The program had three seniors who graduated; Braxton Huggins, Deshon Taylor and Sam Bittner who were very influential on the team last season. Hutson said that replacing those players will be tough, but it’s a good challenge to have. “Were going to miss those guys and their experience. We are talking about 14 years of college experience with three guys,” Hutson said. “Now, we got Noah, New and Nate and it's their turn to step up.” Noah Blackwell, New Williams and Nate Grimes are the three seniors on this year’s team who will have the task of taking the leadership positions. Along with the seniors, junior forward Chris Seeley and sophomore guard Aguir Agau are two other players who are poised to have breakthrough seasons. Agau said he is excited to play and is looking forward to the season. He also said that coach Hutson believes in him and pushes him every day, which is why he’s excited to play for him. “I’m going to come out and play every single game and I’m going to get stops, that’s for

sure,” Agau said. “I’m looking forward to playing more and being able to contribute to the team.” Blackwell said that even though it was still early in the season, they are excited to see how the team performs with the seniors and the eight new players added to the team this season. “I know this is my last year...I just have to bring some of the [teammates] along with us, like the younger guys and I feel like we’re going to have a good year,” Blackwell said. “Everybody wants to win conference, I feel like we have a good chance if we stay focused, healthy and listen to our coach." Hutson said he wants to take advantage of these practices, that they want to stay healthy and create a team that plays hard and that plays well together. Hutson said that the team has minor goals because they will take it game-by-game. “With a young team you can’t start setting numbers or wins or goals or what place you want to finish," Hutson said. “We’ll still play a fast style. I do believe we should be able to go inside more than we did last year ... we’ll play hard and we’ll play together and that’s how Bulldog basketball will play.”

Five Fresno State wrestlers have been named in the top 25 preseason rankings released by Flowrestling on Tuesday, according to a Fresno State Athletics news release. Josh Hokit, AJ Nevills, Khristian Olivas, Jackson Hemauer and Gary Joint were also ranked in WIN Magazine’s preseason rankings released on Sept. 11, with some of the rankings varying between Flowrestling and WIN Magazine. Fresno State has brought back all five NCAA Championship qualifying wrestlers from a year ago, including Hokit coming in at fifth in the rankings at 197 pounds after placing fifth at the 2019 NCAA Championship. Hokit is coming off an All-American finish in the NCAA Championship, which hasn’t been accomplished by a Fresno State wrestler since Mario Botelho received All-American honors back in 2003. Junior heavyweight Nevills is ranked 14th in WIN Magazine and 16th alongside redshirt senior Khristian Olivas, checking in at 149 pounds, in their respective weight classes. Both wrestlers have made two appearances at the NCAA Championship. Redshirt sophomore Hemauer checking in at 184 pounds ranked 18th in both Flowrestling and WIN Magazine. Fellow redshirt sophomore Joint checking in at 133 pounds, also ranked 18th on WIN Magazine earlier this month and ranked 23rd for Flowrestling. Flowrestling has also come out with its top 25 preseason team rankings. Four of the ‘Dogs opponents are seen in the top 25. Wisconsin, being one of them, checks in fifth followed by number 13 Iowa State, a BIG 12 competitor. Six spots down you have Oklahoma University, also a BIG 12 competitor, ranked 19th followed by the University of Illinois checking in at No. 24. Fresno State will see Wisconsin in the first match of the season at the Battle of Midway in San Diego, Nov. 1, 2019.