11-01-2017

Page 1

Wednesday, Nov. 1—Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2017 Weekly Print Edition

Vol. 104, Issue 12 www.thedailyaztec.com

San Diego State University’s Independent Student Newspaper Since 1913

WHAT’S INSIDE

County health department reports viral meningitis at SDSU

PUTTING UP A FIGHT

No reports of deadly bacterial form of meningitis, officials say

University police teach students self-defense skills in a personal safety and awareness training PAGE 3

by Will Fritz NEWS EDITOR

VICTOR CLARK-ALFARO Profesor en el departamento de estudios latinoamericanos le da una voz a grupos marginados. PAGE 6

File Photo

Senior guard Trey Kell breaks away for a dunk during SDSU’s loss to Arizona State in Dec. 2016.

LAUGH FOR A CAUSE Comedian Drew Lynch closes DiversAbility Month at SDSU with his stand-up routine. PAGE 10

HEMSLEYVILLE Junior guard Jeremy Hemsley talks about his loyal Twitter following. PAGE 14

FOLLOW US /dailyaztec @TheDailyAztec @thedailyaztec /DailyAztecVideo

INDEX News............................... 2-3 Opinion.......................... 4-5 Mundo Azteca................. 6-8 Arts & Culture.............. 9-11 Sports.......................... 12-20

Kell, Pope to lead Aztecs in senior season by abraham jewett ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR

San Diego State men’s basketball is counting on the senior leadership of guard Trey Kell and forward Malik Pope, who were named team captains for the upcoming 2017-18 season by first-year head coach Brian Dutcher. Kell and Pope are the only returning seniors from last year’s team, which finished with a record of 19-14 and failed to reach postseason play for the first time since 2004-05. Dutcher, who has been part of the coaching staff since 1999 as an assistant to outgoing head coach Steve Fisher, and more recently as head-coach-inwaiting, said that his two seniors have all the intangibles needed in order to lead the Aztecs in his inaugural head coaching season. “There’s a lot of things that go into success,” Dutcher said. “It’s attitude, effort and good health, and that’s what both these seniors seem to be enjoying right now.” Kell led the Aztecs during the 2016 season in points-pergame with 13.2, and also led the team in assists (96), steals (45), defensive rebounds (145) , field goals attempted (381), free

throws attempted (145), free throws made (111) and minutes played (1050). Kell has never seen himself as a loud voice on the team, but said that as a captain he is working on speaking up more and plans to lead by example. “That’s something I’m working on, to be more vocal,” Kell said. “I’m not the most rah-rah guy, you know, be in the middle of everybody, but I feel like once we start playing I’m pretty vocal.” Pope is also not seen by teammates as a vocal leader, but junior forward Max Montana said that despite Pope and Kell’s quiet demeanor, their ability to lead by example will be a big asset. “They’re not the most verbal guys, but they do their captain work in other ways like actions and showing exactly how the coaches want everything to be done,” Montana said. Pope battled injuries last season, missing nine games with a knee ailment, and said that he worked hard during the offseason to ensure that he would come into the season at full strength. “I changed my diet, my habits, SEE SENIOR LEADERSHIP PAGE 14

Multiple San Diego State students were confirmed to have been diagnosed with meningitis as of Friday. SDSU spokesperson Christine Hutchins said in an email the university was notified by the San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency that there were reported cases of viral meningitis. Hutchins said she was unaware of any instances of the more serious bacterial form of meningitis. Most people diagnosed with viral meningitis see improvements within seven to 10 days, while bacterial meningitis can lead to severe health complications, Hutchins said. “Student Health Services

officials will continue to work closely with the San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency to ensure that the campus community is informed of this ongoing health matter, to ensure that members of our community can make informed decisions about how to best minimize risk to themselves and others,” Hutchins said in the email. “As the fall season generally brings an increase in viral infections, such as seasonal influenza (flu), mononucleosis (mono) and viral meningitis, we will continue to inform our students, faculty and staff about the importance of practicing good health habits which can help prevent the spread of viruses as well as seeking out information and care from their medical providers.”

CSU extends deadlines for applicants affected by recent wildfires by Lauren J. STAFF WRITER

Mapp

The California State University announced Oct. 30 that it will extend the deadline for fall 2018 applicants affected by recent California wildfires. If eligible, those applying will have the Nov. 30 due date pushed back until Dec. 15, but a request for the extension must be submitted before the original deadline. Once the extension has been granted, students will then receive a coupon code to waive the application fee for up to four CSU campus applications, according to a CSU press release. “There are a number of our students in the CSU and high school and community college students that have experienced the effects of the wildfires and the unexpected financial hardships due to them,” said CSU spokesperson Elizabeth Chapin. “This really gives them

a little bit more time to apply if they are having issues with those hardships. Also, with the economic hardships, it gives them a waiver for the $55 application fee.” The application fee waiver is offered to help those who have experienced unforeseen economic challenges due to the wildfires, Chapin said. “The CSU also offers a fee waiver for students who have a financial need,” Chapin said. “In this instance, the fee waiver is different because it’s for students who have experienced an unexpected financial hardship due to the wildfires, so they may not necessarily meet the normal criteria of financial need.” Community colleges and high schools in areas affected by wildfires will be given more information regarding the fee waiver, according to the CSU SEE DEADLINE EXTENSIONS PAGE 3


2 News Snoozing a problem, Malcolm A. Love Library security says

Nov. 1-7, 2017 EDITOR: Will Fritz, news@thedailyaztec.com

The Daily Aztec

“During the day I see people napping all the time but in these late hours, definitely,” Early said. Early said he lives near campus, but comes to the 24/7 area for computer access. “For me personally when I take a nap, it’s for the sake of saving time,” Early said. “I could go home and come back but that’s 30 minutes I could be working on something.” Early said he has never been woken up when he has taken a nap in the 24/7 area after-hours.

He said because it is a public library, they cannot deny people access to the building. As part of their code of conduct, if nonstudents are sleeping or bothering people they can ask them to leave, Staninger said. “I can’t say ‘you can’t come in because you look like a homeless person,’” Staninger said. “Unless you started checking the IDs of every single person, then you’re kind of discriminating at that point.” After the library closes at 10:30 p.m., SDSU students can stay after-hours to study while all non-students are asked to

“I have had students in the past in the 24/7 area (who) were coming in every night and they were just going to sleep. Now that they can’t do, basically they’re just using it as their home.” – William Staninger, Library Security Coordinator

Photo by Kelly Smiley

Students study in SDSU’s Malcolm A. Love Library.

by Paulette STAFF WRITER

Villicana

Security concerns about people using the Malcolm A. Love Library as a place to sleep are an ongoing problem, according to security staff. Kinesiology senior Jacquelyn Ponce said she sees this problem regularly. “I see people taking naps at least every day when I’m in the library,” Ponce said. The library’s code of conduct, accessible online, says: “Sleeping by students beyond a short study nap is discouraged due to safety concerns. Community users

are reminded that the library is open to them for research purposes; sleeping is not allowed.” Library Security Coordinator William Staninger said because the policy states short naps are OK for SDSU students, the concern becomes establishing what is considered a short nap. “I have had students in the past in the 24/7 area (who) were coming in every night and they were just going to sleep,” Staninger said. “Now that they can’t do, basically they’re using it as their home.” Journalism senior Stephan Early said he is in the 24/7 area often and takes naps when he has to pull all-nighters.

Staninger said that he avoids waking people up intentionally. “If I notice someone sleeping a lot, I’ll wait until they’re awake, I let them know our policy that we don’t allow people to sleep in here for long periods of time and usually that’s the end of it.” Staninger said. “Very rarely has it gone beyond that.” However, there have been concerns with non-students sleeping in the library, homeless people in particular. “We are open to the public, and it’s really hard to not let someone in because of the way they look or the way they appear,” Staninger said.

leave. On occasion, the library staff will make exceptions, Staninger said. He said specific requirements regarding non-SDSU students permitted in the 24/7 area after hours are unclear. “That’s kind of a gray area,” Staninger said. “Sometimes if someone has a ride, on occasion we let people stay.” He said it is hard to ask students to show their student IDs because many students don’t usually have their IDs with them. Still, Staninger said that because SDSU students are paying for the facilities, they want to make sure that the 24/7 area is strictly for SDSU students after-hours.

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Nov. 1-7, 2017 EDITOR: Will Fritz, news@thedailyaztec.com

News

The Daily Aztec

3

University police teach self-defense skills in safety training by Lauren J. STAFF WRITER

Mapp

Members of the San Diego State Police Department trained students and staff in personal safety and awareness during a lesson on Oct. 25 at the Cuicacalli seminar room. Led by the department’s Cpl. Mark Peterson, a certified defensive tactics instructor, the beginner-level training session taught participants how to block, strike and use other defensive tactics. Peterson said the tactics taught in the class are ones proven to be effective and are similar to the training given to the department’s officers. One of the most important things to remember during an attack is having a “survival mindset,” Peterson said. “The survival mindset is the knowledge that no matter what happens, we’re going to go home,” Peterson said. “With the knowledge that you’re going home, the body can do great things to overcome adversity when it knows that we’re going home...promise yourself that you’re going home and empower yourself with that knowledge.” Legally, victims have a right to selfdefense within a reasonable degree, meaning “reasonable force to overcome the attack,” Peterson said. The class Oct. 25 was comprised of eight participants — both students and staff — with an even split of male and female students. Having been in situations in the past where she felt uncomfortable and unsafe, business marketing junior Nicolette Martinson said she took the class to be more prepared in the future. “I want to make sure I’m protected — I have night classes, so I walk to my classes late at night, and I want to make sure that I am safe,” Martinson said. One of the most important things that she said she learned during the training was the individual defense techniques. “Something I’ve never learned before is when someone’s actually touching you, how to do it — you can watch TV or watch a video online, but it’s not getting the hands-on experience,” Martinson said. “It’s always better to be educated when it comes to anything, so I think it’s best to take a class and make sure you’re prepared for something to happen since it happens to so many people.” Marketing communications junior Angel Lam said building awareness and knowing how to apply the training was the most important aspect that she learned during the training course. “I think the most important thing I learned from this workshop was

Applications

continued from page 1 press release. Those who think they may qualify for either the extended deadline or fee waiver should send a request for accommodation with “Extension Request – Weather/ Fire Event” as the subject via email at calstateapply@calstate.edu. Montana Farrow, business administration sophomore, said she attended Cardinal Newman High School in Santa Rosa, California. Parts of the school were damaged during the wildfires, causing class section sizes to drastically increase. Farrow said she feels that the CSU decision may have a positive effect on communities like her hometown. “My hometown, Santa Rosa, was devastated by the fires,” Farrow said. “In addition to losing the stability within their high school environment, the majority of Newman students lived in Fountain Grove, which was destroyed by these fires. Now

Photo by Kelly Smiley

Nicolette Martinson practices throwing punches with San Diego State Police Department Officer Don Williams on Oct. 25.

recognizing my instincts and then pairing it with a technique,” Lam said. “Be aware, be active and take a role not just in your own safety but in other people’s safety.” Palash Sanghvi, construction engineering graduate student, wanted to take the class in case he needed to defend himself in the future. “The biggest thing is to always make space — get some space for you so that you can see your potential target and hit it,” Sanghvi said. Wanting to avoid being in danger in case he is the victim of a crime was construction graduate student Sahil Sharma’s motivation for attending the training session. “Crime has been increasing nowadays, so it’s always good to learn some selfdefense techniques,” Sharma said. In addition to attending a training session, Peterson said he suggested utilizing the Safety Escort program on campus. “(The escort) program provides safe transport to and from campus locations during hours of darkness,” Peterson said. “When walking on campus at night, use well lit walkways, walk with friends, and be alert to what is occurring around you. Report suspicious activity to the police

these kids have to rebuild their lives, many don’t have even a set place to live.” Public relations junior Jillian Anderson said the announcement is a sign that the CSU system cares about its current and future students. “I think it’s a good move on the part of the CSU system,” Anderson said. “It shows its support for California students who have suffered through a natural disaster. Students are more likely to apply in-state if they know that their attendance is valued.” Ryan Young, engineering senior, said that prior to this announcement, he felt that applications could be due later than previously established. Though he thinks the decision was the right one, he said he wondered whether it was inspired more by wanting positive media attention rather than goodwill. “I think it’s a good idea — I’ve always thought the application process was too early anyway,” Young said. “It seems that they’re doing very little to verify if people are affected or not, or at least it’s not mentioned anywhere that they’re screening that close.”

department as soon as possible.” To get a Safety Escort, use either a duress (blue light) phone on campus or call (619) 594-6659. The service is available every day from

dusk to dawn and community service officers will accompany students, staff and faculty to parking lots, Greek Houses, dorms and Albert’s apartments, according to the university police website.


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Opinion

The Daily Aztec

Nov.1 - Nov. 7, 2017 EDITOR: Dana Tsuri-Etzioni, opinion@thedailyaztec.com

Ghosting trend should disappear by Talia Raoufpur SENIOR STAFF WRITER

Dating is terrifying. Halloween isn’t the only time you can be spooked. Ghosting happens regularly, leaving the one being ghosted confused and concerned. Providing closure is the best way to tell someone you are not interested — rather than ghost the person who was more emotionally invested. Closure requires an act of courage and many are cowards. It would be accurate to compare my life to a novel. My experience with one guy makes up an entire chapter that was left unfinished. I’ve been wanting to know what went wrong the last two years, to find out why I was struck by rejection again. Dating during college tends to go as follows — message a guy, go on a date, enjoy the date and never hear from him again. Officially being ghosted. I tend to assume the extreme

reasoning for a guy’s sudden disappearance. Did he get incarcerated? Did he die? Did he lose all access to technology? Does he have a girlfriend? Or in my friend’s case, the guy she went out with suddenly

encounter was more relaxed than I had anticipated. I forgot how comfortable I was around him. His flirtatious gestures were obvious, while I stayed friendly. I liked his attention. Even after

“Closure requires an act of courage and many are cowards.” moved to Sweden two days later without telling her. Ghosting has become an epidemic and like too many of my girlfriends, I have endured too many of these incidents. I cannot count the number of times a guy did this to me, leaving me to binge or sit in my car for hours belting out Adele ballads. A couple of weeks ago, a guy finally gave me the closure I desperately craved. Our

two years, our connection remained intact. The spark was still there. What was supposed to be a ride to his vehicle, became an hour long conversation about our history. Nothing was left out. Without this, I was chained to the past, unable to forgive or forget what happened. Our relationship wounds were cleansed. We said what we each

wanted before. It turns out my expectations were different from his. We agreed that a future together was infeasible. It made the two year period of uncertainty, self-doubt and resentment fade away. We were two adults who agreed that we were not meant to be together. We still have chemistry. I adored our back-and-forth. The guy that once left me miserable was now making me laugh. I felt comfortable around him. I felt I could be myself. I was satisfied with our ability to be honest with one another and to have that I had the confidence to put myself first. Our chapter had finally ended. During this Halloween season, be aware that the cheap party store decorations aren’t the only ghosts lurking around. Talia Raoufpur is a senior studying psychology and communication. Connect with her on Facebook or Twitter @TaliaRaoufpur.

EDITOR IN CHIEF Andrew Dyer MANAGING EDITOR Lilly Glenister NEWS EDITOR Will Fritz ASST. NEWS EDITOR Jasmine Bermudez OPINION EDITOR Dana Tsuri-Etzioni MUNDO AZTECA EDITOR Jocelyn Moran ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR Cami Buckman SPORTS EDITOR Zach Engberg ASST. SPORTS EDITOR Abraham Jewett DIGITAL SPORTS EDITOR Mary York ENGAGEMENT EDITOR Alex Piscatelli PHOTO EDITOR Kelly Smiley MULTIMEDIA EDITOR Mirella Lopez SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR David Santillan VOLUNTEER EDITORS COPY EDITOR Brian del Carmen

SDSU is a bubble, it’ll be a shock when it pops Campus is filled with social and political awareness that isn’t as prevalent in other areas. by Kemi Giwa STAFF WRITER

San Diego State’s liberal, comforting and accepting environment is misleading. This environment makes many fail to realize the horror that occurs outside of this bubble in other parts of the country. Many can attest to experiencing racism here on campus. However — unlike many other college campuses — students aren’t faced with the everyday horror that overt racism brings. This is not to say that SDSU hasn’t had its share of bigotry. But for many other schools, the daily racial harassments are experiences students of color are faced to deal with, without much support from peers or administration. When was the last time California has had to convince a reluctant governor to remove a Confederate statue or flag? Or gather petitions against a school named after a Confederate soldier? Every once in awhile someone strolls around campus with a “Make America Great Again” hat full of pride or the SDSU College Republicans make yet another racist, hateful remark. But we can rest assured, that the majority of our peers are as disgusted as we are. While some people may claim that SDSU’s liberal atmosphere is a luxury, it really isn’t. To live in a bubble where people seem to be generally accepting and liberal is deceptive. As a black third year, I can say that I’ve been able to navigate my way through college thus far without experiencing consistent obvious racism. Though the discomfort with being the only black girl in class will always

EDITOR-AT-LARGE Jacob Sisneros ART DIRECTOR Aiden Prehatny SENIOR STAFF WRITERS Emely Navarro Julianna Ress Talia Raoufpur STAFF WRITERS Lauren J. Mapp Pauletter Villicana Vladamir Salazar Kyle Saunders Rebeca Reyes Pabel López Chesiree Kather Kayleigh Venne Mayer Pohlod Tristi Rodriguez Sydney Northcutt Tony Zarate Julie Cappiello Kemi Giwa

Photo by Kelly Smiley

Photo by Christian Hicks

CONTRIBUTORS Chance Page STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Petey Dyer Weicheng Han David Cortez ________________________________ ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Connor Brooke SALES MANAGER Peter Saridakis

Photo by Natalia Xibille

Photo by Will Fritz

Members of the San Diego State community unite for different social and political causes.

remain and the microaggressions will never go unnoticed, I can say that I’ve felt pretty safe. But, there are other people of color on campus who haven’t. And living in a bubble makes it much harder for other people also in that bubble to believe and rally against these unjust experiences. I’ll never forget hearing people question why people of color often fear the police. Or having one of my friends stop me outside of our Anthropology class and ask me, “I mean, does racism against black people really exist still? Everyone is so accepting.” Though in this day and age, questioning the existence of racism when you own a television, a computer or even have eyes and ears is absurd. Living in a bubble will do that to you. It’ll make you oblivious from

the presence of a world that exists outside of the world you currently exist in. It’ll cause you to believe that your views are everyone else’s views, too. It’ll make it harder for you to recognize the pain your peers experience and mobilize against it. Many will end up leaving San Diego after graduating. It’ll be difficult to navigate in an environment outside of the one you have been so accustomed to. Living in a bubble makes it harder for people to fight against oppression. Not only because they don’t experience it, but because they don’t see it in plain view. And for many people, anything existing outside of the bubble, doesn’t exist. And if overt racism doesn’t

exist to someone, then hidden, systematic oppressive structures simply don’t either. The idea of someone being denied a job, a loan or any opportunity for that matter, on the basis of skin color, sexual orientation or gender is dismissed as something of the past. Many people’s expectations of the “real world” after college life are skewed. This is a call for students to understand the importance of remaining aware of how surroundings can inaccurately impact perceptions of the world. And most importantly, to remember that there is life outside of San Diego and SDSU’s progressive, accepting bubble. Kemi Giwa is a junior studying public relations. Connect with her on Twitter @_KemiG.

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES George Saridakis John Weil Josh Diaz Rauda Valerie Barrientos Miguel Souza Kaden Cowles Garrett Munt ACCOUNTING & CONTRACTS Tyler Burnett Meah Mapp ________________________________ GENERAL MANAGER/ADVISER Jay Harn GRAPHICS SPECIALIST Christopher Blakemore ________________________________ EDITORIAL 619.594.4190 editor@thedailyaztec.com ADVERTISING 619.594.6977 advertising@thedailyaztec.com PRINT The Daily Aztec publishes 5,000 copies of its weekly print edition every Wednesday throughout the semester WEB Daily content is available at www.thedailyaztec.com QUESTIONS/COMMENTS letters@thedailyaztec.com ________________________________ The views and opinions expressed in this issue do not necessarily reflect those of The Daily Aztec.


Nov. 1- Nov. 7 2017 EDITOR: Dana Tsuri-Etzioni, opinion@thedailyaztec.com

Opinion

The Daily Aztec

5

Faster action needed for opioid epidemic by Julie Cappiello STAFF WRITER

In the last 15 years, half a million people died because of opioid addiction — one of America’s deadliest killers. According to the Center for Disease Control, the number of overdoses from opioids has quadrupled since 1999. Opioids are primarily used for pain relief. They can come in the form of prescription drugs like oxycodone and codeine, and are also administered in hospitals as morphine. But they can also come in the illegal form as heroin and fentanyl. Opioid overdose is happening rapidly while the

“Although it was declared a public health emergency, progress is not being made fast enough.” U.S. is moving slowly to fix it. The epidemic has reached such extremes that in August President Donald Trump promised to declare it a national emergency. Almost two months overdue, on Oct. 26, Trump declared the epidemic

Walgreens are providing Narcan to combat the opioid epidemic.

a public health emergency. He also stated, that he would suspend a rule in Medicaid that prevents government funding to community rehabilitation centers. Medicaid offer federal funding to community rehabilitation centers only if they have fewer than 16 beds. Most rehabilitation centers in populated cites do not meet those requirements. Although it was declared a public health emergency, progress is not being made fast enough. It took almost two months for Trump to make this call and he also did not request any new funding moving forward. Trump also said that there would be advertising to support the fight against opioid addiction. There was no specification about what the advertisements would

Photos by Victor Beck

detail. The CDC projects the epidemic will continue to rise. Advancements need to start now. Trump was right to suspend the rule in Medicaid. But he should have already set it in motion by the time he made his announcement on Oct. 26. The solution for the opioid epidemic is an issue that needs to be more progressive. Many of the overdoses occurred on the East Coast. The most significant increase in drug overdose related deaths was from 2014 to 2015 with an increase in the number of states reporting 20 or more fentanyl confiscations. Although it is more substantial on the East Coast, it does not mean the problem is not present in California. According to the CDC, California is one the lowest

Narcan can be bought at the Walgreens pharmacy with a prescription.

states of overdose deaths with 11 deaths for every 100,000 people. Heroin and fentanyl play a big role in illegal drug use in America. Heroin is used mainly within the 18 to 25 age group and men are typically the majority of users. Its use is prevalent in urban areas because of its cheaper price. Fentanyl is a pharmaceutical synthetic opioid and the most potent pain killer on the market. Illegally made fentanyl is sold through the black market and is often mixed with cocaine or heroin. The drug is deadly. The musical innovator Prince died of an accidental overdose of fentanyl in 2016. However, progressive steps are being made towards a solution. Walgreens just announced they would hold Narcan in 8,000 of their pharmacies. Narcan is the

brand name for Naloxone, a nasal spray that can reverse the effects of an overdose. Walgreens selling Narcan can save people from dying of overdoses. However, it is not cheap. Naloxone can cost up to $125, which may not be affordable to some. The cost also depends on the insurance and plan the buyer has. The steps being taken are significant because they have the potential of saving lives. However, the movement needs to be quicker. If the nation wants to significantly reduce the abuse of opioids, many more need to be involved ad action needs to be taken quickly. Julie Cappiello is a sophomore studying journalism and media studies. Connect with her on Twitter @juliecappiello.

Why I can’t support the NFL and what it condones anymore by Chance Page CONTRIBUTOR

The National Football League is in turmoil. Those who oppose the widespread protests NFL players are making against racial inequality and police brutality, as well as those who support these protests, have a common way of showing their displeasure — boycott the NFL. As this NFL season has gone by, I agree with those who no longer support the NFL. Part of my reasoning comes from the blackballing of Colin Kaepernick, among other efforts to crack down on the players’ protests. It is clear that there is an effort by NFL owners and managerial staff to punish Kaepernick, who started his protest in the 2016 NFL preseason. Despite a rash of injuries to starting quarterbacks this season, Kaepernick remains unsigned. Meanwhile, teams have turned to desperate measures to find quarterbacks, signing Arena League quarterbacks, retired quarterbacks or just plain awful quarterbacks. And it’s not that Kaepernick played badly last season. Kaepernick threw for 16 touchdowns and four interceptions through the

course of 12 games. Not exactly MVP numbers, but definitely respectable, especially for a team that won only two games last season and that is winless through its first seven games this year. Kaepernick was also a good teammate. Evident by his 49ers teammates voting for him to win a prestigious team honor at the conclusion of the 2016 season. It’s clear that there is a deliberate effort to avoid signing Kaepernick, and not because he’s not talented enough, he’s a bad teammate or he’s done something horrible. But instead, it’s because he dared to use his platform for a cause the ownership doesn’t support. Another reason I stopped watching is Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy — a progressive degenerative disease of the brain found in people with a history of repetitive brain trauma according to Concussion Legacy Foundation. The extremely high rate at which football players suffer from it, and the league’s efforts for many years to discredit the notion that football can be a cause of it is concerning. CTE can lead to memory loss, depression, suicidal behavior and Parkinson’s disease —among other devastating effects. This disease is incredibly common among football players. A Boston University study showed that 110 of 111 brains of former

NFL players studied were shown to have CTE. Ninety-one percent of players who last played in college also had CTE. Even three of 14 players who last played football in high school possessed CTE. CTE is a crippling condition,

denied CTE was connected with football, despite overwhelming evidence that the link was real. They also omitted more than 100 concussions from a study of diagnosed concussions over a five year period and reneged on funding for a study on CTE when

“The league has repeatedly behaved reprehensibly. Not only in silencing a voice, but also for taking delayed action.” ruining the lives of those who possess it. Jovan Belcher, a Kansas City Chiefs linebacker shot and killed his girlfriend, before committing suicide. An examination of his brain after his death revealed that he suffered from CTE. Former San Diego Chargers linebacker Junior Seau committed suicide by a gunshot to the chest. A post-mortem analysis showed that Seau had CTE. But it’s not just the likelihood of watching these players give themselves permanent brain damage that is disturbing. It’s also the league’s disregard for the well-being of their players that makes me not support the league. For a couple decades, NFL leadership,as well as its owners and its medical personnel, actively

a researcher not on the NFL’s payroll was chosen. Thousands of NFL players each year risk their bodies and their minds playing football. Meanwhile the NFL fought as hard as possible to discredit and obscure the link between CTE and football. The league shows a significant moral failing in their players’ conduct. There have been many cases of players committing sexual or physical assault of women, but later being welcomed back with little regard for their victims. Greg Hardy was found guilty of assaulting his ex-girlfriend in 2014 before the case was later settled out of court, and returned to the NFL and signed to the Cowboys. Despite his past actions, Hardy

was welcomed by the league. Adam Jones, player for the Cincinnati Bengals, has remained in the league despite instigating a melee at a Las Vegas nightclub that led to an alleged friend of his shooting up that nightclub, as well as five separate accusations of assaulting women from 2006 to 2013. These are just two cases in a larger trend. Thirty-three NFL players have been arrested for domestic violence, battery, assault and murder over the course of the past five years. This issue with domestic violence among NFL players isn’t helped by an inconsistent enforcement of its policy. Suspensions of players arrested in domestic violence incidents are often shorter than the leaguemandated six games. It has become impossible for me, among many others, to continue watching the NFL. The league has repeatedly behaved reprehensibly. Not only in silencing a voice attempting to speak for an oppressed minority, but also for taking delayed action when players are harming themselves and others. Chance Page is a junior studying journalism and political science. Connect with him on Twitter @chance_619.


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Mundo Azteca

The Daily Aztec

Nov. 1-7, 2017 EDITOR: Jocelyn Moran, mundoazteca@thedailyaztec.com

Victor Clark-Alfaro: Los percances de un activista de los derechos humanos

Víctor Clark-Alfaro toma una llamada en su oficina de Tijuana, México.

por Vladimir ESCRITOR

Salazar

Persecución por el gobierno estatal, amenazas de muerte por parte de la policía mexicana y darles una voz y representación a grupos marginados, son algunas de las cosas que Víctor Clark-Alfaro, profesor en el departamento de estudios latinoamericanos en San Diego State, ha soportado y cumplido en sus años como activista en México. Un artículo publicado por la cadena televisiva Telesur, dijo que el 96 por ciento de los casos donde un activista es asesinado en México, no pasa por un proceso judicial y no se cumple justicia, lo cual hace esta una vocación peligrosa. “Si no te encarcelan o te asesinan por ser un activista en México, pues eres de los que tienen suerte”, dijo Clark-Alfaro. Clark-Alfaro ha dedicado la mayor parte de su vida defendiendo a grupos marginados en México. Nacido y criado en Tijuana, Clark-Alfaro desde una temprana edad cuestionaba la pobreza que existía en varios sectores de la ciudad. Al paso del tiempo, su interés hacia los problemas sociales fue incrementando y decidió que iba a dedicar su vida a ayudar

a los demás. Cuando Clark-Alfaro se graduó de la preparatoria, se fue a la ciudad de Morelia, donde cursó dos años para convertirse en un sacerdote. “No tenía la vocación del celibato, y es por eso, me regrese a la ciudad de Tijuana”, dijo Clark-Alfaro. Clark-Alfaro dijo que la razón por la cual quiso convertirse en sacerdote fue para poder ayudar a los necesitados. Al ver que no podía tener la vocación de un sacerdote, se regresó a la ciudad de Tijuana donde realizó una carrera en turismo en la Universidad Autónoma de Baja California. Después de terminar la carrera en turismo, se fue a la ciudad de México donde realizó su segunda carrera en antropología social. En 1983, Clark-Alfaro ingreso a UCSD para obtener un doctorado en antropología. Como estudiante, comenzó un estudio en el que se enfocaba en las vendedoras ambulantes indígenas de la calle revolución, una de las calles más importantes de la ciudad de Tijuana en cuestión de turismo. Es debido a esta investigación de universidad que comenzó la trayectoria de Clark-Alfaro como activista. Clark-Alfaro dijo que comenzó simplemente por observar a las mujeres indígenas trabajando. Fue en ese momento

Foto por Vladimir Salazar

donde se dio cuenta de las injusticias que estas mujeres sufrían a diario en sus vidas. “Al ver a las mujeres indígenas ser perseguidas y extorsionadas por la policía municipal, pues me causó un gran impacto”, dijo Clark-Alfaro. “Yo miraba a las mujeres siendo perseguidas con sus hijos en la espalda tratando de escapar del abuso de la policía”. Las condiciones en las que vivían las mujeres indígenas sorprendieron a Clark-Alfaro y decidió por reunirse con la comunidad indígena, en la cual les propuso hacer una protesta en contra de las injusticias que vivían a diario. “Fui a la comunidad indígena y me reuní con alrededor de 100 personas”, dijo ClarkAlfaro. “Les dije que no podíamos permitir en el país la persecución de la población indígena”. En 1984, Clark-Alfaro organizó una protesta en donde unió a más de 500 indígenas y protesto en el centro de Tijuana. Debido a esta protesta, la comunidad indígena se dio cuenta de su potencial, y surgió un movimiento. Desde este punto, Clark-Alfaro estableció una relación con la comunidad indígena del estado de Baja California, en donde comenzó a demandar derechos humanos. La comunidad indígena comenzó a fortalecer, y logró conseguir la atención del gobierno estatal. Clark-Alfaro nunca se identificó como el líder del grupo, si no como un asesor. Sin embargo, el gobierno estatal etiqueto a Clark-Alfaro como el líder de la comunidad indígena, y estuvo en su mira. “Al principio, yo solo era una curiosidad para el gobierno”, dijo Clark-Alfaro. “Solo me miraban como ‘el antropólogo’ que andaba en las calles gritando a favor de los indígenas, pero después ya no fui ‘el antropólogo’. Ya me había convertido en un problema político”. Para 1986, la comunidad indígena se convirtió en una organización masiva, la cual el gobierno ya no podía ignorar. El gobierno mexicano comenzó una campaña en contra de Clark-Alfaro con el propósito de desacreditarlo pública y moralmente. Clark-Alfaro dijo que el gobierno le pagó a uno de los miembros de la comunidad indígena y le prometieron un puesto en el gobierno, con la condición de que acusara y denunciara a Clark-Alfaro de haberle robado dinero a los indígenas. “Cada semana por seis meses, aparecían artículos en el periódico en donde decía

que yo había robado dinero de los indígenas”, dijo Clark-Alfaro. “En lugar de desacreditarme, me victimizaron frente a la sociedad, y todo mundo se dio cuenta que me querían meter a la carcel por todo lo que estaba haciendo”. La campaña, con la intención de desacreditar a Clark-Alfaro, llegó a su conclusión cuando la primera plana del periódico decía “Victor Clark Culpable”. “Esa noche, cuando llegue a mi casa, estaban mis abogados afuera de mi casa”, dijo Clark-Alfaro. “Me dijeron que no era un problema jurídico, si no político, y me aconsejaron irme a los Estados Unidos”. Clark-Alfaro se quedó en San Diego por un mes mientras la situación se calmaba. Al regresar a la ciudad de Tijuana, Clark-Alfaro se reunió con un ex profesor que era en ese momento el oficial mayor de gobierno. “Él me dijo ‘qué estás haciendo allí defendiendo a los indígenas, vente a trabajar al gobierno del estado’”, dijo Clark-Alfaro. “Yo le dije que no, yo tengo mis convicciones, no me me interesaba en convertirme en burócrata del gobierno”. En 1987, Clark-Alfaro creó el Centro Binacional de los Derecho Humanos en Tijuana, con el propósito de expandir su activismo hacia otros grupos marginados. En esta época, Clark-Alfaro ya se había convertido en un nombre reconocido por las autoridades mexicanas. Clark-Alfaro trabajó en más de 180 casos que trataban con victimas torturadas por la policía mexicana. Clark-Alfaro comenzó a ser amenazado por la policía mexicana cuando trabajaba en estos casos. Las amenazas por parte de la policía estatal fueron publicadas en Amensty.org, en donde especifican que tres policías estatales quienes estaban siendo acusados por tortura amenazaron a Clark-Alfaro. Clark-Alfaro también comenzó a denunciar a la policía debido a actos de corrupción que estaban cometiendo, en donde los policías demandaron a ClarkAlfaro bajo cargos de difamación. Este incidente llegó a ser publicado en la revista nacional, Proceso, en donde señalaron que, si fuera necesario, ClarkAlfaro fácilmente sería otorgado asilo político a los EE.UU. “Debido a todas las denuncias que estaba haciendo en ese tiempo, comencé a recibir amenazas”, dijo Clark-Alfaro. “El secretario de gobierno me dijo que mi vida estaba en grave riesgo, que era un asunto de seguridad nacional, y me otorgaron escoltas”. Estudiantes que han tomado su clase, la cual consiste en viajes semanales a la ciudad de Tijuana, han sido testigos de la efectividad de su activismo. Ivette Lorona, graduada de SDSU, la cual tomo dos clases de Clark-Alfaro, dijo que el profesor es casi como una celebridad. “Un vendedor en la calle llegó una vez y empezó a agradecer al profesor Clark”, dijo Lorona. “Comenzó a decirnos que el profesor lo había ayudado en tiempos difíciles”. Jose Enriquez, graduado de SDSU que ha colaborado con Clark-Alfaro en proyectos de investigación, dijo que ve al profesor como un mentor e inspiración. “El hecho de que ha sido activista de los derechos humanos por muchos años demuestra que es algo que se puede realizar”, dijo Enriquez . “Cada vez que recibía una amenaza o mi vida corría peligro, me alentaba a seguir continuando”, dijo Clark-Alfaro. “Me convencía más que podría cambiar el mundo”. A pesar de haber recibido pasado por dificultades, Clark-Alfaro no tuvo la intención de detener, y no planea hacerlo. “Ayudar a la gente necesitada se ha convertido en un estilo de vida”, dijo ClarkAlfaro. “No me arrepiento de nada”.


Nov. 1-7, 2017 EDITOR: Jocelyn Moran, mundoazteca@thedailyaztec.com

Mundo Azteca

The Daily Aztec

7

Profesora de español presenta sus hallazgos de actitudes hacia dialectos por David Santillan EDITOR DE MEDIOS SOCIALES

Profesora de español en San Diego State, Lauren Schmidt, presentó sus hallazgos de investigación sobre el tema: Actitudes Hacia Distintos Dialectos en el Español el 18 de octubre en el edificio de arte y letras. Durante la presentación, Schmidt explicó las posibles actitudes que desarrollan los que aprenden el español. El tema fue presentado a sus colegas y otros estudiantes. La encuesta fue conducida en la Universidad de Indiana, donde todos los sujetos eran estudiantes del español como lenguaje segundo, pero variando de cuatro niveles, primeros hasta avanzados. Los acentos examinados fueron de Argentina, México, Puerto Rico y España. “Necesitamos saber cuáles son las percepciones y los estereotipos que tienen los estudiantes hacia diferentes variedades de español”, dijo Schmidt. Aunque otros estudios han enseñado que los hablantes nativos del español tienen ciertas actitudes sobre diferentes acentos, Schmidt quería investigar si esas actitudes son trasmitidas a los que aprenden el español como un nuevo lenguaje. Los sujetos de la encuesta escucharon una frase pronunciada con acentos diferentes. Después de haber escuchado la frase, escogieron cual acento sonaba más amigable y más prestigioso.

La encuesta reveló que los estudiantes pensaban que el acento argentino era el más amigable, seguido por el acento mexicano, puertorriqueño y español. Los sujetos pensaban que el acento español era más áspero, mientras que el argentino era más suave. Algunos estudiantes americanos relacionan el acento español, cual utiliza la “theta”, a un impedimento del habla.

Foto por David Santillan

Profesora de español explica sus hallazgos de las actitudes hacia ciertos dialectos en español.

Profesora de SDSU ayuda a estudiantes marginados por Pabel ESCRITOR

López

En la oficina de Profesora Estralita Martin en el departamento de ciencias de San Diego State, hay un mapa de todos los lugares de origen de sus estudiantes. Los marcadores en el mapa incluye estudiantes de todas partes del mundo. Este mapa va de acuerdo con la filosofía de Martin. “Miro a muchos estudiantes de todas partes del mundo y empecé a marcar de

“Hay un estigma que gente no cree que estudiantes de los grupos minoritarios pudieran salir adelante en las ciencias”. – Estralita Martin Profesora de ciencias

los lugares diferentes de donde vienen para saber cómo somos conectados en este mundo”, dijo Martin. Martin ha trabajado en SDSU por más de 20 años y también trabaja como consejera de varios grupos de apoyo para los estudiantes. Martin dijo que una de sus metas es ayudar a los estudiantes que no son representados en las materias de ciencias. “Hay una estigma que gente no cree que estudiantes de los grupos minoritarios pudieran salir adelante en las ciencias”, dijo Martin. “Y eso es algo que yo quería

“Desde que era niña, la “theta” me parecía como un impedimento de hablar y pensaba negativo (del acento)”, dijo Gabrielle Breen, estudiante de español en SDSU. Breen, quien había viajado a España, escuchó que los españoles eran sesgados hacia ciertos acentos, pero cuando llegó a España, se sorprendio al ver la amabilidad que tenían a pesar de su acento. Jacob Smith, estudiante de español de

combatir”. Thelma Chávez, quien ha trabajado con Martin en el program de Logro de Ciencia de Ingeniería de Matemáticas por 20 años, dijo que ella piensa que el estigma sigue presente y es bueno que los estudiantes miren a alguien como a ellos en una posición de poder. “No es tan prevalente como antes pero yo creo que sí sigue ese modo de pensar que estudiantes quienes son hijos de inmigrantes o quienes son de bajos recursos no son tan inteligentes, y eso no es cierto, obviamente”, dijo Chávez. “Eso es algo que ayudamos a los estudiantes porque solo se necesita un profesor que le diga algo a un estudiante, y eso le puede quitar la confianza en si mismo al estudiante”. Unos estudiantes de Martin dijeron que Martin puede ser intimidante al principio después de conocerla pero ese efecto pasa y muchos estudiantes llegan a ver a la profesora como una segunda madre. Estudiante de ingeniería eléctrica de SDSU Kevin Archangel dijo que Martin puede tener ese efecto pero él lo ve necesario en el trabajo de Martin. “Ella nos dice que las cosas en la vida no llegarán fácil, y ella trabaja para que nosotros pongamos de nuestra parte para tener éxito,” dijo Archangel. ”Pero, sobre todo, su honestidad, siempre estará presente”. Vásquez dijo que siempre recordará una instancia en donde Martin la inspiro. “En mi último año de colegio en SDSU, yo tuve una emergencia de salud y no pude atender a varias clases y la doctora Martin fue quien me llamó por teléfono para preguntarme como estaba”, dijo Vásquez. “Siempre me acordaré de eso de la doctora Martin porque no tenía que hacer eso, pero le importó tanto que yo saliera adelante que me buscó, y eso me enseñó cuánto le importa su trabajo a la doctora”.

“Necesitamos saber cuáles son las percepciones y los estereotipos que tienen los estudiantes hacia diferentes variedades de español”. – Lauren Schmidt, Profesora de español

SDSU, dijo esta encuesta también reveló algunas actitudes sobre acentos que él tenía. “Cuando oigo (a los) argentinos, quienes pronuncian las palabras con acento diferente, me molesta porque no es habitual para mi escuchar el español hablado así”, Smith dijo. Durante la plática, Schmidt también propuso que algunas actitudes que los estudiantes desarrollan son adquiridas por medio de la clase, donde profesores, quienes subconscientemente tienen prejuicios, las enseñan. “En las clases, tenemos la meta de hablar de estos mitos y desacreditarlos”, dijo Schmidt. Actualmente, Schmidt está conduciendo más estudios en este campo, enfocándose en los estudiantes quienes van al extranjero para estudiar el español.


8

Mundo Azteca

The Daily Aztec

Nov. 1-7, 2017 EDITOR: Jocelyn Moran, mundoazteca@thedailyaztec.com

Exhibición ‘Estamos Aquí’ se enfoca en la inmigración entre San Diego y México por Rebeca ESCRITORA

Reyes

La Escuela de Arte y Diseño, junto con la Galería de San Diego State en Downtown, presentó la exhibición de fotografías “Estamos Aquí” desde julio a el 29 de octubre. La directora de la galería Chantel Paul dijo que “Estamos Aquí” fue un proyecto que se enfocó en la migración a lo largo de la frontera entre San Diego y Tijuana y que tenía el tema de dinámicas sociales como enfoque. Paul trabajó en poner el proyecto por un año y medio, durante el cual buscó a varios fotógrafos con propuestas diferentes. “Más que cualquier otra forma de arte, la fotografía se usa para contar historias personales como una herramienta para compartir información y abogar por cambio social”, dijo Paul. Paul dijo que tenía como meta enfocarse en contar las historias diferentes a lo largo de la frontera. Dijo que “Estamos Aquí” no tenía ningún fin político, pero que coincide con los cambios que han ocurrido en el país. “Se volvió aún más importante hacer esta exhibición en este momento”, dijo Paul. Un artista cuyo trabajo se exhibió en el proyecto es Stefan Falke, un fotógrafo Alemán.

Foto por Jocelyn Moran

Fotos que ilustran la inmigración y la frontera están en las paredes de la galería de SDSU en downtown.

Falke fue contactado para el proyecto ya que su foto ensayo “La Frontera” es conocido en Tijuana y San Diego. Falke dijo que su foto “La Frontera” comenzó hace ocho años y fue inspirado por las noticias negativas sobre la frontera que él miraba. “Quería mirar por mi mismo como era

la vida en la frontera”, dijo él. Falke dijo que al darse cuenta que las noticias solo mostraban partes negativas de la frontera y no sobre sus habitantes, el proyecto se volvió más importante. “Algunas historias son malas, pero las personas no lo son,” dijo él. Su proyecto abarcó ambas partes de

la frontera a lo largo de Tijuana, Tecate y Mexicali con 10 artistas trabajando muchas horas para documentar las condiciones de las vidas de las personas. “La frontera es un lugar muy desafiante”, dijo Falke. Falke dijo que este proyecto es más sobre cambio social y que no es dirigido en contra de lo que está pasando en el país en la actualidad. Falke dijo como la cortina de hierro alemana dividió a dos sistemas políticos y aunque son diferentes historias, la fisicalidad de un muro es la misma, ya que crea miedo e incomodidad entre vecinos. “Cuando Trump se vaya, la frontera seguirá ahí, con o sin él”, dijo Falke. Otro artista cuyo trabajo se incluyo es Thomas Kiefer, un fotógrafo de arte. Su proyecto en marcha, “El Sueño Americano” se enfoca en objetos personales removidos de inmigrantes al ser aprehendidos por agentes de la patrulla fronteriza en Arizona, según su página oficial de internet. El enfoque de su proyecto era mostrar el lado humano de las personas que emprenden un viaje peligroso y que cualquier espectador se sienta relacionado con las motivaciones del migrante, dice en su página de internet. “El miedo que las personas tienen de la frontera y de la gente,” dijo Falke. “ Los políticos quieren mantenerlo así”. “Pero es mostrarles que ellos son tan buenos como cualquier otra persona”.

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No soy americano porque no soy güero, pero tampoco soy mexicano porque no nací en México. Entonces, ¿de dónde soy? La crisis de identidad que muchos latinoamericanos e hispanos sentimos no es algo nuevo en los Estados Unidos. La necesidad de asimilarse a la cultura americana mientras manteniendo la cultura de nuestros padres es un conflicto interno que plaga a los hijos de inmigrantes. ¿Pero, si nuestros padres escogieron venir aquí, no es lógico que nosotros, los hijos, nos adoptáramos a la nueva cultura del país? Me crié en el condado de San Diego, donde la mayoría de inmigrantes son mexicanos. La lengua que aprendí primero fue español. No entendí el inglés hasta después de haber empezado la primaria. Cuando primero aprendí el inglés, mis maestros me aplaudían con entusiasmo. Con el tiempo, fui perdiendo mi acento mexicano y me esforzaba por hablar con un acento americano. Aunque seguía hablando en español con mis padres y mi familia, me molestaba cuando otra gente me trataba de hablar en español. También, en mi estilo personal, trataba de imitar cómo se vestían los surfistas y los patinadores. Quería sentirme como un verdadero californiano. Mi familia noto el cambio, y mi hermana mayor me preguntó con desdén ¿por qué tratas de ser güero? La pregunta me enojó. “Vivimos en los Estados Unidos”, le dije. “¿no es lógico que me mire americano”? Lo que era interesante de mi actitud en ese entonces es que no tenía presión de parte de mis compañeros, y nadie estaba siendo racista contra mí. O por lo menos no directamente. Es algo increíblemente imperceptible, el

adoctrinamiento americano. Basta con solo un comentario casual como, “todavía tienes un acento mexicano cuando hablas,” o, “te miras bien mexicano hoy”. A primera vista, estos comentarios son inocentes, pero en realidad nos cambia la auto perspectiva. Mi auto perspectiva había cambiado, cambiado a pensar que tenía que asimilarme lo más posible para que la cultura americana me aceptara. No fue hasta el 2014 que me entere que tan distorsionada estaba mi punto de vista sobre mi cultura y mi identidad. En el sitio social llamado Tumblr, leí una entrada de blog donde un usuario explicó el fenómeno de auto racismo. En simple palabras, el usuario explicó que la sociedad americana adoctrinaba a los inmigrantes de diferentes países de modos diferentes, como ridiculizando las vestimentas tradicionales, las festividades culturales, e incluso algunos platillos natales. Terminó con diciendo que la cultura americana no sería nada sin las contribuciones de culturas inmigrantes y que inmigrantes deberían estar orgullosos de sus países de origen. Me examine en lo profundo, y llegué a la triste realidad que era racista, contra mí mismo y contra mi gente. A la misma vez, mis familiares y otros extraños me criticaban por saber cómo hablar gramaticalmente correcto, o por no conocer las costumbres de su país. Incluso, mis amigos mexicanos que habían nacido aquí me comentaban que cuando visitaban a su familia, los mexicanos los trataban con prejuicios, simplemente por haber nacido en el otro lado de la frontera. Es difícil, adaptar las costumbres americanas mientras manteniendo las de nuestros padres. Lo importante es mantener la perspectiva que somos parte de una cultura diversa en los Estados Unidos, donde todos contribuimos y agregamos.


Arts

Nov. 1-7, 2017 EDITOR: Cami Buckman, arts@thedailyaztec.com

The Daily Aztec

November’s month in 01 THE DRUMS @ The Observatory North Park

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HALSEY, PARTYNEXTDOOR, CHARLI XCX @ Viejas Arena

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NONAME @ The Observatory North Park

COUSIN STIZZ @ Voodoo Room

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HAMILTON LEITHAUSER @ Belly Up Tavern

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FALL OUT BOY, JADEN SMITH, BLACKBEAR @ Viejas Arena

$UICIDEBOY$ @ House of Blues

BJORK “Utopia”

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TERA MELOS, SPEEDY ORTIZ @ The Casbah

NEW FOUND GLORY @ House of Blues

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SORORITY NOISE @ The Irenic

GUNS N’ ROSES @ Valley View Casino Center

TOVE LO “Blue Lips”

3 Reasons

Song of October:

STUDENTS

On her excellent latest record, “MASSEDUCTION,” Annie Clark explores the themes of sadness, sex and drugs. But in between explosive pop anthems, heartbreak and travels from coast to coast lies “Happy Birthday, Johnny,” a forlorn piano ballad in tribute to a self-destructive friend. What hurts most is Clark’s inability to shake her regret, recounting a conversation between her and the title character—“Annie, how could you do this to me?” By the end of the song she leaves her friend with a parting message — “When you get free, Johnny / I hope you find peace,” — but after her admissions of guilt, perhaps the sentiment is just as much extended to herself.

Album of October:

by Julianna Ress SENIOR STAFF WRITER

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12

09

SAM SMITH “The Thrill of it All” SHAMIR “Revelations”

usic

TAYLOR SWIFT “Reputation” ANGEL OLSEN “Phases”

06

02

The 17-year-old rapper, made famous via SoundCloud, delivers punch after punch of pure adrenaline on his debut mixtape, having released a string of singles throughout the year. With high-profile features from Lil Yachty, 2 Chainz, Gucci Mane and others, Lil Pump’s infectious energy has become impossible to ignore—along with the online hip-hop movement he was bred from. The collaboration with Yachty, “Back,” in particular is a standout— showing the usually melodic “Minnesota” rapper adapting to Pump’s hyperactive flow and industrial beats. He ignores hip-hop’s rules in favor of unrelenting enthusiasm and simple, catchy hooks, and in the hands of his young fans, that leads the SoundCloud star to debuting at no. 3 on the Billboard 200.

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Arts

The Daily Aztec

Nov 1-7, 2017 EDITOR: Cami Buckman, arts@thedailyaztec.com

Comedian creates disability awarness

Photo by Weicheng Han

Stand-up comedian Drew Lynch performed his routine in Montezuma Hall as part of DiversAbility Month.

by Kayleigh STAFF WRITER

Venne

To end DiversAbility Month at San Diego State, Student Disability Services and One

SDSU hosted comedian Drew Lynch. Laughter spread throughout the audience in Montezuma Hall as the standup comedian cracked jokes about his need for a service dog, San Diego’s lack of a fall

season this year and even his severe stutter. Liberal studies junior Tori Hancock is one of many who attended the packed event. “I was interested in this event because I believe that Drew is an inspiration to everyone,” Hancock said. “He continues to face challenges every day, yet he doesn’t dwell on them but instead uses those challenges to motivate his choices. It takes guts to get up on stage the way he did, and there will always be haters. However, Drew shows the world how you can’t let what others think of you dictate your life.” Lynch finished in second place on the tenth season of “America’s Got Talent.” The fan favorite currently has a YouTube channel with more than 1 million subscribers. He frequently posts videos with his service dog, Stella. Prior to Lynch’s arrival and introduction at SDSU, the event coordinator announced that everyone in the audience was to look under their seats. Much to the crowd’s surprise, invitations to a meet and greet with Lynch were scattered under random seats throughout the hall. The randomly selected audience members were able to meet Lynch at the end of the event. Lynch’s large following was reflected by the popular turnout in Montezuma Hall. By the time he took the stage at 7:30 p.m., almost every seat was taken. “Interesting art you have back here,” Lynch said of the hall’s mural at the start of

his performance. “Just a naked dude.” The crowd erupted into laughter as Lynch let out his distinct high-pitched cackle. Lynch is known for poking fun at himself as well as his disability. His jokes feature sarcasm and self-deprecating humor. “I stutter,” Lynch said. “I have to say that at every show. Like, people look at me like, ‘Does he know? Should we tell him?’” Lynch continued to make jokes about his disability throughout the duration of the event and encouraged the audience to laugh at themselves as well. “It’s important to have the confidence to address your own self-awareness,” Lynch said. “It’s helpful. It helps to ease the tension in your...buttholes.” Lynch’s quirky sense of humor left no room for moments of silence in the audience. Students clapped and cheered throughout the entire performance, and even moreso when the comedian joked about his service dog. Liberal studies junior Mackenzee Chambers attended the event because she is a big fan of Lynch. “I thought it was a great event that was funny and lighthearted,” Chambers said. “I felt like having (Lynch) come and perform was the perfect ending to (DiversAbility Awareness) month because he is a great example of a person who conquers all adversity and became very successful despite his disability.” Lynch uploads new content to his YouTube channel, “WordsRHard,” every Monday and Thursday.

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Nov 1-7, 2017 EDITOR: Cami Buckman, arts@thedailyaztec.com

Arts

The Daily Aztec

Conservation expert speaks at SDSU the issue of Brazil being a major agriculture purveyor. As the third leading source of food in the world, and first leading in beef production, Brazil’s natural forests are being depleted to accommodate the massive demand for

11

touch a little bit on every topic he could,” Newhouse said. Newhouse hoped Lourival’s words would inspire students to take action and join the fight for Brazil’s rainforests and endangered species.

“Nature has little value or place in modern society.” – Reinaldo Lourival, Conservation expert

Photo by Cami Buckman

Reinaldo Lourival, an expert in environmental conservation, spoke with SDSU about the efforts needed to help sustain Brazil’s ecosystems.

by Chesiree STAFF WRITER

Katter

Conservation expert Reinaldo Lourival visited San Diego State Oct. 25 and spoke about the fight to save Brazil’s diverse ecosystems. The talk, “Sailing the Conservation Boat in Brazil’s Troubled Waters,” explained conservation efforts of Nature and Culture International, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting the lands in South America from endangerment.

He noted that a good outcome isn’t always guaranteed, as conservationists are often fighting against large odds. Not just from the government, but from farmers, indigenous peoples and citizens. NCI believes that by diving headfirst into solving issues, fighting for Brazil’s land will become normalized. “Part of the country sees (conservation) as something from the past, and can not project it into the future. So it is a big challenge,” Lourival said. “Nature has little value or place in modern society.” One of the topics Lourival discussed was

food. Lourival and his team recently influenced Brazil’s Ministry of Environment’s decision to expand its protected land in the pantanal, Brazil’s wetlands. “The president came to the pantanal and announced that he would create one sustainable developed reserve of about 500,000 hectares, and (double the size of) a national park and ecological station,” Lourival said. The event was put on by Green Love, the Associated Students sustainability commission, as part of its Green Lunch Bag Series. Mario Newhouse, an environmental science senior and chair of the Green Lunch Bag Series committee, had been working to bring Lourival to SDSU since May of this year. “Brazil is such a large country. In the hour that (Lourival) had, I (wanted) him to

“I was able to relate to the talk a lot,” Newhouse said. “We (Brazilians) regard the Amazon rainforest as the lung of the earth. What resonated with me most was that only 20 percent of the Amazon has been explored.” Undeclared freshman Juliana Meirelles said the talk was thorough, educating and inspiring. “We know that here in the (U.S.), especially in California where we live, people tend to put an emphasis on sustainability,” Meirelles said. “But in other countries, it’s not really a big topic in society. But it’s just as important, if not more important.” She said Lourival showed the path towards conservation in Brazil. “In introducing the idea of selfdetermination, of doing with your land the best for the future generation, we are planting the seed of protection,” Lourival said.


12 The Daily Aztec

Nov. 1-7, 2017


Basketball Preview

Nov. 1-7, 2017 EDITOR: Zach Engberg, sports@thedailyaztec.com

The Daily Aztec

13

by zach engberg SPORTS EDITOR

Graphic by Aidan Prehatny

The Steve Fisher era of San Diego State basketball is over. After 19 years on the Mesa, the legendary head coach passed the torch to longtime associate Brian Dutcher. Dutcher is taking the reins a year removed from an underwhelming 19-14 season and the first missed postseason since 2004-05. Head coach Stacie Terry leads a women’s basketball team that she calls the most talented she has seen in her five years at SDSU. With both teams in a transition year – the women’s team has five freshmen on the roster – all eyes will be on Viejas Arena this basketball season. With all of that in mind, The Daily Aztec brings you the 2017 basketball special issue. Go to P. 14 to read how students are responding to the new basketball ticket pickup system. Read P. 16 for an in-depth look at Terry’s 2017-18 team, P. 17 for a preview of Dutcher’s first season at the helm and P. 18 for a closer look at men’s freshman guard Jordan Schankel and the flock of freshmen coming to the women’s team. Finally, check out P. 19 for two columns on the expectations for the men’s team this season and a small photo collage. Remember to check out The Daily Aztec online for more basketball content. Enjoy.

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14

The Daily Aztec

Senior leadership: continued from page 1

my work ethic,” Pope said. “That’s what the summer was about to me, you know pushing through the season preparing my body.” Dutcher has noticed Pope’s rejuvenated health coming into the new year. “(Pope) battled injury all last year, and I think he feels good that he’s healthy and starting a year where he feels like he’s at full strength,” Dutcher said. Despite only playing in 24 games in 2016, Pope finished third on the team in total rebounds (147), averaging 6.1 per contest, had the highest three point shooting percentage on the team last year (.392), and finished with the fifth most points, scoring an average of 11.1 per game. Pope said that he is excited to be named one of the leaders of the team, and plans to show his teammates how to play the game the right way. “It means a lot… I’m excited to be a captain,” Pope said. “(Being captain) just means making the right plays... leading by example.” Dutcher has seen a physical transformation from Kell, who had already proven his durability by playing in all 33 games last season. He was only one of two players to do so, along with now-graduated guard Dakarai Allen. “When you look at (Kell) it’s more than just getting in the gym and shooting,” Dutcher said. “It’s diet, it’s weight room, you look at him and he looks like a new player he’s in the best shape of a four year career.” Kell said that the secret to his improved

Basketball Preview physique is staying away from fast food and eating his fruits and vegetables, something he does begrudgingly. “(I’ve been) just trying to stay away from the fast food, late night you know getting hungry,” Kell said. “Just eating more fruit and vegetables. I mean I hate vegetables, I’m gonna be honest. But there’s ways you gotta suck it up and eat it.” After three years wearing Aztecs’ scarlet and black, Pope and Kell have had plenty of experiences on the court, something which junior guard Jeremy Hemsley said

“I’m excited to be a captain. (Being captain) just means making the right plays... leading by example.”

- Malik Pope, senior forward

will go a long way towards helping them lead the team this season. “I think them being team captains is something that’s going to help the team,” Hemsley said. “This their senior year, they been through this many times so I think they’re perfect guys for leading us.” Kell recognizes that being a senior marks the end of a chapter in his basketball life, and said that it is extra motivation. “I think it motivates everybody in a way… you know it’s your last go around,” Kell said. “You get that extra motivation, that extra focus… every practice is crucial, every game is even more crucial.”

Nov. 1-7, 2017 EDITOR: Zach Engberg, sports@thedailyaztec.com

Students react to new ticket system by Kyle Betz CONTRIBUTOR

As the San Diego State men’s basketball team approaches the 2017 season, members of its renowned student section – The Show – will now redeem tickets differently this season than they have in years prior. The Show has brought energy and excitement to Viejas Arena for numerous years dating back to 2001, after SDSU’s student section was nicknamed by a fan on an SDSU athletics online message board. For years, students had to wait in long lines out of Viejas Arena to claim tickets. On numerous occasions, students camped outside the box office for hours on cold weekday mornings. An email from the SDSU Athletic Department was sent to students on Oct. 23 announcing that students are now able to claim basketball tickets through Ticketmaster on a first come, first served basis. Students can redeem their tickets at 8 a.m. one week prior to the game. These tickets guarantee seats in Sections J, K, L, and M and can only be accessed via smartphone. There is a “3 Strike Rule” attributed to students’ accounts if they claim tickets and fail to attend basketball games. On a third and final offense, a student’s account will be reviewed and potentially banned from claiming tickets for the rest of the season. If a student claims a ticket and cannot attend, they must call the Aztec Athletic Ticket Office two days prior to the game to avoid receiving a ‘strike.’ General public ticket sales will open two days after the student ticket claim date. Freshman business major Drea D’Ercole believes the traditional distribution system is more effective. “I think the tickets should be given out the way football tickets are distributed to avoid confusion,” D’Ercole said. She said that all Aztecs sporting events, particularly football and basketball games, should be viewed as fun, and she dislikes the idea of the “3 Strike Rule.” “Such strict guidelines should not be attached to the new ticket distribution system. The risk of receiving an offense through the ‘3 Strike Rule’ eliminates the fun,” said D’Ercole. Sophomore communications major Keely Kerr said that the new ticket distribution system has both advantages and disadvantages. “I like the idea of the new ticket system,” Kerr said. “I think it’s extremely convenient, but I don’t like the idea that you could be penalized if you don’t go to a game.” Steve Schnall, executive associate athletic director of external relations at SDSU, outlined the objectives behind the new basketball ticket distribution system. “The goal is that in the span of a halfhour we could sell out student tickets if that’s what the demand is,” Schnall said. “It’s good that student will be able to have control of their own destiny with their computer and not have to spend a lot of time doing it.” According to Schnall, the decision to switch to digital tickets is SDSU’s attempt to use technology to everyone’s benefit. “We certainly want to make sure those who pick up the tickets actually want to attend, and we want whoever’s picking up tickets to have a simpler process to do it. We want 2,500 students at every game,” Schnall said.

Connected students will now find the new ticket distribution method more convenient. The university is making tickets accessible to everyone simultaneously. The new ticket distribution system allows up to 2,500 students to claim tickets. Sophomore Max Burns, a nursing major, said he appreciates the new ticket distribution system because it makes tickets available to all students. “I think it’s a good system because students were frustrated when they were unavailable to claim tickets in previous years,” Burns said. “I’d definitely say it’s better for students who really want to be there, and I like the fact that tickets are still free. It incentivizes students to go to games, and it prevents them from scalping their tickets as well,” he said. Freshman athletic training major Guillermo Gonzalez Jr. thinks that the new system has benefits, but some students might be unable to claim their ticket on time. “The new ticket system is convenient and better for the long run as our society becomes more reliant on technology,” Gonzalez Jr. said, “but it is unfair because it is based on luck more than first come, first serve. For example, if you don’t claim your ticket the minute they first become available, you might not be able to attend that game after all.” Junior mechanical engineering major Brandon Pires said that if the new ticket distribution system turns out to be a success, SDSU might be able to implement it for other sporting events, such as football games, in the future. “There’s no difference between distributing a basketball ticket and a football ticket online because students will still attend sporting events,” Pries said. “The new ticket distribution defeats the purpose of waking up early, going in line and getting hyped for the game. What if the internet crashes or your phone lags?” Pires said he believes that the size of The Show will remain the same, even with the implementation of the new basketball ticket distribution system. “I don’t think the new ticket system will change the amount of people that go. People who like to go will go, but people who don’t like to go won’t go. If anything, I think this system is worse because people will redeem tickets and not go to games,” he said. Whether or not the new ticket distribution system will impact the amount of students that attend basketball games, The Show’s influence and support will continue to aid SDSU’s men’s basketball team throughout the 2017-18 season.

FOLLOW US /daztecsports @daztecsports @daztecsports /daztecsports


Nov. 1-7, 2017 EDITOR: Zach Engberg, sports@thedailyaztec.com

Basketball Preview

The Daily Aztec

15

Twitter techniques of a student athlete Standout SDSU men’s basketball player shares his social media strategy and his perspective on using his platform by Mary York DIGITAL SPORTS EDITOR

For San Diego State men’s basketball junior guard Jeremy Hemsley, Twitter is more than just a way to pass the time. With 10.5 thousand followers and official Twitter verification, @Germ uses the social media platform to build a professional brand and shape a platform for his voice. He said he has been consciously doing since high school. “I remember when I first got a thousand followers I was really hyped about it,” Hemsley said. “But I guess as your name gets bigger in basketball, the more your name is out there on social media, so I just try to use that to my advantage to make sure people are seeing my face or seeing the things that I’m saying.” Hemsley has a dedicated following which interacts with him regularly on Twitter – one user even made a fan account, @Hemsleyville, which documents SDSU basketball – and Hemsley said he works hard to make sure his followers know they are appreciated. “A lot of times in the relationship between fans and players, fans don’t feel like they can talk to players or that the players probably won’t reply,” he said. “So I try to make it where they can talk to me or they feel loved by whatever I’m saying. I’m not just a basketball player who’s ignoring what they’re saying, I want them to feel like I interact with them.” But social media can be complicated for an NCAA Division I athlete, said Hemsley. “I represent so many people, so of course you have to be mindful of the things you say,” he said. “I try to stay on the positive or brighter side of things because, because if I say something wild or negative, the next day somebody I don’t want to see it will probably see it.” Hemsley said he sometimes watches professional athletes handle media situations via their online platforms, mostly to see what not to say in times of crisis. But the distance from the fans and the greater-than-thou vibe of most pro athlete accounts has never been attractive to Hemsley. “They make it seem like they’re so much better than someone who’s not playing the sport, so I try to level out the playing field to make it like we’re all the same,” he said. “I try to have more fun with things and I

Junior guard Jeremy Hemsley prepares to drive to the basket during a game in the 2016-17 season.

to be accessible to fans, even when the comments strike a nerve. Hemsley said that he understands where his followers are coming from, expressing disappointment or frustration after a game, because he too has been on that side of the keyboard, commenting on the performances of professional athletes. “It is rough sometimes if you have a bad game and you come back and you see someone telling you all the things you did wrong,” he said. “But at the same time, everyone’s human and everyone has their own opinions, so I’m not going to get mad at someone for telling me how they feel.” Although most of SDSU’s basketball players are on Twitter, none of them have the following that Hemsley does. “I don’t they think realize what it can do or how they can use it to their advantage,” he said. “Playing basketball has put me on a platform. Say I’m talking about a topic

“Playing basketball has put me on a platform. Say I’m talking about a topic that’s more on the serious side, I would like for my voice to be heard and Twitter gives me the opportunity to do that” – Jeremy Hemsley, junior guard

think that’s why people are drawn towards me. We’re not going to be here long. Just have fun with it.” Hemsley’s original content on Twitter ranges from shoutouts to other campus athletes like SDSU football senior running back Rashaad Penny, prayers for Boston Celtics guard Gordon Hayward and grief over the October shootings in Las Vegas, to the “lighter side” inside jokes and good vibe updates. Conscious of the personal brand he is trying to create, Hemsley said he wants

that’s more on the serious side, I would like for my voice to be heard and Twitter gives me the opportunity to do that.” But Hemsley said he understands that his Twitter presence is as much a business as anything else. “During summertime, I really don’t use it, but that’s because I know the fans aren’t interested in what we have to say unless it’s during this time of the year,” he said. “I feel like, as basketball is a part of my life, this is also a part of my life. If I go on to do bigger things, I’m setting my image up now.”

File Photo


16

The Daily Aztec

Basketball Preview

Nov. 1-7, 2017 EDITOR: Zach Engberg, sports@thedailyaztec.com

Women’s bball brings high expectations

Photo by Kelly Smiley

Senior guard Geena Gomez plans her attack during a game in the 2016-17 season.

by tristi rodriguez STAFF WRITER

San Diego State women’s basketball is ready for redemption. After an up-and-down 201617 season, including many injuries and a six-game losing streak, the Aztecs are looking to prevent another rollercoaster campaign. Fresh faces, coupled with veteran leadership, has the team determined, and head coach Stacie Terry said this team has the most potential of any she has coached at SDSU. “I’m really excited about the season because I think this is the most talented team we have coming back to start the season,” Terry said. “Expectations are higher. We spent the last six to eight weeks really working on concepts. Whatever they throw at us, our girls have seen it in some form or fashion in practice.” Senior guard Geena Gomez said the team has worked on their comradery and conditioning in the offseason. “We get a lot of work in the weight room, more than we’ve done in the past to help prevent (future losses).” Senior guard Khalia Lark said the team has faced many challenges, but in the end the team will benefit from them. “We have been thrown a lot of different obstacles within practices and workouts that have made it extremely difficult for us, on purpose, to try to help us build good habits when it comes to adversary,” Lark said.

The Aztecs have less than two weeks before their first match up. The team prepares for its opponents by practicing, watch film and going over the basics. “We spend a lot of time watching film of our opponents and of ourselves trying to tighten up some things,” Lark said. “And just understanding strategy and what we need to do as far as execution is concerned.” Getting ready for a game, however, is more than sticking to strict procedures, and Gomez said letting loose is also key. “As a team when we have home games, about an hour before the game, we like to have some dance battles and some singing battles going on,” Gomez said. Lark said that this Aztecs team is different than those of years past “This year it’s going to be a lot different because we have so many vets and so much knowledge,” Lark said. “We also have so many young ones that are just beginning their collegiate journey, so I think it’s a unique mixture of older girls and younger girls trying to come together for a common goal.” The new faces include freshmen guards Te’a Adams, Najé Murray and Jenay Bojorquez, who will be playing alongside six seniors. Terry stressed the importance of teamwork on and off the court between the new players and her returning seniors. “It really goes into our senior leadership, which is by far the best that we’ve had since I’ve been here for the past four

years,” Terry said. “I’m going to encourage that because I think we need that leadership on and off the floor.” Lark transferred to SDSU from the University of Washington during fall 2016, after playing with the Huskies for two seasons. “Here it’s truly like a family,” Lark said. “We have a different type of atmosphere... there’s a lot of love all around, so that was kind of the deciding factor for me to transfer here.” Gomez said that she has set individual goals for herself as well as for the team. “I want to lead the Mountain West in assists and assist-toturnover ratio,” Gomez said. “As a team I want to do well enough in the Mountain West to get us a good seed in the tournament and win the tournament, and move on to the NCAA.” Lark also has lofty goals for herself in her farewell senior season. “I want to average a doubledouble, and lead the team in rebounding,” Lark said. “As far as the team is concerned, I want to win the Mountain West tournament and make it to the NCAA Tournament.” Terry said it would be nice to have a little more support from fans at games. “I really am proud of this team and what they’ve been able to do, and how hard they’ve been working. So obviously we all would love to have people in the stands,” Terry said. SDSU will begin it’s regular season on Nov. 10, when it faces Presbyterian College at Viejas Arena.

2017-2018 SCHEDULE

2017-2018 ROSTER 0 KENNEDI VILLA

G

FR

1 KHALIA LARK

G

SR

3 JENAY BOJORQUEZ

G

FR

5 TE’A ADAMS

G

FR

10 NAJE MURRAY

G

FR

11 ARANTXA GOMEZ FERRER F

JR

13 ALLISON BROWN

G

SR

15 MCKYNZIE FORT

G

SR

20 GEENA GOMEZ

G

SR

21 ABBY LOWE

G

SO

22 LEXY THORDERSON

G/F

SR

23 LOLI GOMEZ

G

JR

24 KIARA EDWARDS

F

FR

30 CHEYENNE GREENHOUSE G

SR

34 BAYLEE VANERDOES

F

SO

40 MONIQUE TERRY

F

SO

45 NAOMI EKWEDIKE

C

SO

11.03.17

VS. CAL STATE LA

11.10.17

VS. PRESBYTERIAN

11.14.17

VS CSU NORTHRIDGE

11.18.17

VS CSU FULLERTON

11.24.17

VS. CENTRAL MICHIGAN

11.29.17

VS. SAN DIEGO

12.03.17

AT ARIZONA

12.08.17

VS. UC IRVINE

12.10.17 VS HOPE INTERNATIONAL 12.14.17

VS. SANTA CLARA

12.22.17

AT UC SANTA BARBARA

12.28.17

VS. WYOMING

12.30.17

AT UTAH STATE

1.03.18

VS. COLORADO STATE

1.10.18

AT SAN JOSE STATE

1.13.18

VS. BOISE STATE

1.17.18

AT FRESNO STATE

1.20.18

VS. NEW MEXICO

1.24.18

AT COLORADO STATE

1.27.18

VS. UNLV

STACIE TERRY

2.03.18

AT AIR FORCE

ASSISTANT COACH

JESSE CLARK

2.07.18

VS. FRESNO STATE

ASSISTANT COACH

CIARA CARL

2.10.18

VS. NEVADA

ASSISTANT COACH

NICK GRANT

2.14.18

AT WYOMING

2.17.18

AT UNLV

2.21.18

VS. AIR FORCE

2.24.18

VS. SAN JOSE STATE

2.27.18

AT BOISE STATE

3.02.18

AT NEVADA

COACHES HEAD COACH

DIRECTOR OF BASKETBALL OPERATIONS

JON SILVER DIRECTOR OF PLAYER PERSONNEL

PARIS JOHNSON


Nov. 1-7, 2017 EDITOR: Zach Engberg, sports@thedailyaztec.com

Basketball Preview

The Daily Aztec

17

Dutcher finally ready to take the reins Longtime coach-in-waiting Brian Dutcher takes over as head coach as the next chapter in SDSU basketball begins by Tony zarate STAFF WRITER

Steve Fisher’s retirement at the end of the 2016-17 season opened the door for a new era of San Diego State men’s basketball. Brian Dutcher, SDSU’s new head coach, is poised to lead the Aztecs down the same path to success as his storied predecessor. Arriving at the University of Michigan in 1989 as the associate head coach to Fisher, Dutcher helped lead the team to the national championship. Their time together at Michigan would mark the beginning of a decades long relationship, one which ultimately brought the two of them to the Mesa. After nearly 30 years working together, Dutcher has adopted Fisher’s scheme of defensive ball and rich player-first culture. Dutcher’s years of schooling in the Fisher academy will be put to the test in his first season as head coach, after the 2016-17 season was filled with injuries to key players and saw the Aztecs first missed postseason since 2004-05. Dutcher feels like the team needs to play quicker basketball on the offensive side in order to improve on what has been a subpar offensive unit the past two

seasons. “We are looking to increase the tempo in which we play with to try to put more points on the board,” Dutcher said. “Put the kids in the best situation to be successful offensively.” Last season SDSU mustered only 68 points per game, but were boosted by a defense that held opponents to 62 points per game. As has been the case for years on the Mesa, the defense is waiting for the offensive side to meet them in the middle. Along with maintaining the culture that Fisher established at SDSU, Dutcher is confident in his own skills, and believes with the mentorship of others he can create his own legacy. “I want to maintain the culture because it’s a culture of winning basketball, social responsibility and academic success,” said Dutcher Being around the program for almost 20 years, Dutcher has final say at practice, and it is nothing new for the players to see him in a leadership position. “I think he’s done a good job with just making sure that we don’t lose focus mentally and just keep staying the course and just playing as hard as we can,” junior guard Jeremy Hemsley said.

Coaches are mentors and father figures that these players look up to, and Dutcher speaks volumes to this statement. When it comes to class, character and a authenticity, Dutcher appears to fit the mold. “He’s really caring,” Hemsley said. “He’s going to do everything that he can to help you on and off the court.” A coach’s success can also be measured by the way they carry themselves off the court. Those who find themselves in the winners circle are usually those who hold themselves to a high standard to set an example to their players. Junior forward Max Montana is another of Dutcher’s players who speaks very highly of his new head coach. “He’s just a high character guy… he cares a lot and he understands that there is more to life than basketball. He is a very humble, down-to-earth person,” Montana said. “He embodies all the characteristics that you look for in a person, let alone a coach.” While he has yet to set foot in a game as the official head coach, Dutcher is ready to bring success to the Mesa, and with big shoes to fill and high expectations to meet, the new Aztecs head coach is a match made in heaven.

Photo courtesy of Ernie Anderson, SDSU Athletics

Incoming head coach Brian Dutcher mans the sidelines as Steve Fisher looks on.


18

The Daily Aztec

Basketball Preview

Nov. 1-7, 2017 EDITOR: Zach Engberg, sports@thedailyaztec.com

Schakel shoots big for upcoming season by sydney northcutt STAFF WRITER

San Diego State men’s basketball freshman guard Jordan Schakel is a proven winner. Schakel set records as a four-year starter at Bishop Montgomery High School in Torrance, California, leading them to a school best 118 total wins and a victory in their first CIF State Open Division Championship during his senior season. But it wasn’t all about basketball at first. “I played football, that was my first sport that I really loved,” Schakel said. “In the third grade my mom made me choose between football and basketball. Well, she didn’t really make me choose, she made the decision for me.” During his senior season at Bishop Montgomery, Schakel earned Daily Breeze all-area first-team accolades, first-team allCIF honors, all-Del Rey League honors and all-CIF Southern Section Open Division recognition. Bishop Montgomery men’s basketball head coach Doug Mitchell said that despite Schakel’s long list of awards, individual accolades were never a motivating factor for his former player. “I think that, first and foremost, Jordan is a winner,” said Mitchell. “Jordan is always about the team, individual accolades do not mean that much to him. He is very talented but more importantly he is a great team player.” Mitchell also praised Schakel for his sharp shooting skills to go along with his work ethic.

“Jordan has many special qualities but he is a great shooter. His ability to hit shots from all over the court serves to separate him as a player,” said Mitchell. “I think his work ethic is exceptional, he is constantly striving to improve and expand his game. He is never satisfied and consistently works, which is one of the reasons he improves every year. It’s something that I know will continue in college.” One game that stood out to Schakel from his senior season was a 70-63 victory over Sierra Canyon School, which advanced his team to the Open Division Championship. Schakel scored 20 points in the game, and credited the win with putting his school on the map. “The game versus Sierra Canyon was my favorite. I had a good game and also it was the game that started it all, that led to the championship win,” said Schakel. “There were radio shows all around the country, nobody even mentioned us or knew we were in the tournament so it just felt good.” Schakel’s success at Bishop Montgomery drew attention from college scouts, but ultimately he chose San Diego State because he felt the program was the right fit for him. “I had some Pac-12 interested, but I felt that San Diego State gave me the best chance to be successful and I really liked the program that they built here,” Schakel said. Schakel is currently pursuing a business degree at SDSU. However, his goal is to play professionally and for his dream job. “I’d like to be a Laker,” he said with a chuckle.

Photo courtesy of Ernie Anderson, SDSU Athletics

SDSU freshman guard Jordan Schakel is ready to shake things up in his first season on the Mesa.

Women’s basketball recruits bring energy to the court by sydney northcutt STAFF WRITER

The San Diego State women’s basketball recruiting class is ranked 23rd nationally this offseason, and its new batch of players brings a fresh set of talent to the Mesa. The Aztecs four new freshman guards – Kennedi Villa, Jenay Bojorquez, Te’a Adams, Naje Murray – along with forward Kiara Edwards, constitute the Mountain West Conference’s highest ranked recruiting group. The players bring something valuable to the court that head coach Stacie Terry said isn’t teachable. “What I’m most excited about is how competitive they are. They want to be great, they want to contribute, they want

to be in the record books and you can’t teach that,” Terry said. While all have been successful players in their own right, their paths to SDSU basketball varied. For Bojorquez, basketball was just part of the athletic environment she grew up in. “I’ve been playing basketball since I was four. I was always at the gym watching my older sisters play, and seeing my dad be a boxer he always told me to be competitive in any sport that I tried,” said Bojorquez. “Basketball was the one I chose and stuck with.” As for 6-foot-1 inch, four star recruit Edwards, basketball wasn’t always something that came as naturally. “I was just doing basketball for fun, it gave me something to do...I was horrible,”

Edwards said. Edwards outlook on basketball changed after her future high school coach saw her playing and Las Vegas, and started working with her on her game. “When we trained I didn’t touch a basketball for two months, she was in there with tape on the floor, shoes off, showing me footwork and working on different moves,” Edwards said. Her hard work would pay off, and she received her first college offer from Long Beach State when she was in the seventh grade. Each player’s high school experience was different, and Villa, who had to overcome serious knee injuries during her junior year, said her former high school teammates still inspire her to this day. “As a freshman in high school the seniors on the team actually became my inspiration,” Villa said. “They always played hard and I always looked up to them.” Villa was the first of the freshmen to make an official commitment to SDSU, and witnessed firsthand the cut throat world of college recruiting after her injury. “When I tore my ACL and tore my meniscus and got surgery a lot of schools started dropping me, but SDSU was always a school that stuck with me.” Adams set school scoring records in her senior season at Juanita High School in Kirkland, Washington, and led her team in scoring all four years. Learning that she broke the scoring record was a nice surprise for Adams. “I broke the scoring record before I knew I broke the scoring record,” said Adams. “My coach came up to me at practice and told me that I had the school’s record. I was really excited.” The senior year for Murray didn’t go as well, after a devastating knee injury ended her regular season before it began. “I was really worried about recruiting

when it happened, and I really wanted to play my senior year,” said Murray, “I rehabbed pretty quickly so that I could play in my playoffs.” Despite the setback, Murray enjoyed the recruiting process and getting to know the staff and program at SDSU. “I thought it was really fun, getting to meet people from all over the country,” Murray said. “Basketball allowed me to meet some really cool people. I clicked with Coach Terry right off the bat. I always tell people if this coaching staff was anywhere else I’d want to go with them, they just sealed the deal for me.” The girls share a bond that was apparent from the beginning, with many recognizing their official visit as a factor in why they ultimately decided to take their basketball careers to SDSU. “We all committed in the same weekend together which was pretty special,” said Murray. Edwards echoed the same sentiments. “The reason why I chose SDSU was the family atmosphere. The five of us all came on the same visit and I fell in love with them,”she said. Terry believes the togetherness of this group is obvious, and is something she admires. “I love how close they are. I love the chemistry that they have not only with the team, but within themselves,” said Terry. However this season ends up, SDSU basketball fans have a highly ranked group of players to watch for the next four years. “We’re really excited about this class. Not only what they can bring to us this year, but as we see them develop and grow I think this is going to be five young ladies who will be very special by the time they are seniors,” Terry said. Catch the Aztecs in action on Nov. 3 in Viejas Arena as they take on Cal State Los Angeles in their first exhibition match of the season.


Nov. 1-7, 2017 EDITOR: Zach Engberg, sports@thedailyaztec.com

Basketball Preview

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Will the real Aztecs please stand up? by Kyle saunders STAFF COLUMNIST

by mayer pohlod STAFF COLUMNIST

For the first time in four years, San Diego State men’s basketball was not picked as the preseason favorite to win the Mountain West Conference by conference coaches. The prediction should serve as a wake up call for the Aztecs to remind the country what they are capable of. “I think our mindset is also that we can’t sit here and explain that we gonna do it we just have to go out there and do it, so just go out there and do it and prove to everybody that we are a first place team,” senior guard Trey Kell said. This is a team with a lot of question marks. Injuries have haunted SDSU for the last couple seasons, and the lack of success during the MW Tournament in the past few seasons has pushed the Aztecs further out of the national spotlight. When people think of SDSU men’s basketball, Kawhi Leonard and “The Show” – SDSU’s famous student section – come to mind. The legacy left by Fisher and past players has given the Aztecs a strong reputation in the Mountain West, which has allowed fans to overlook a conference tournament loss or a missed NCAA Tournament bid. It is always expected that the Scarlet and Black will come out on top, and had been selected to win the conference for four consecutive preseasons. That is old news. After posting a 19-14 record last season, with below average attendance numbers, followed by the departure of Zylan Cheatham to Arizona State and the retirement of Steve Fisher, this team must find a new identity. These Aztecs cannot rely on their legacy of past success, they must go out and create their own. Long-time assistant Brian Dutcher will take over the reins as head coach for the Aztecs, and he brings excitement and passion into his new role. “It’s kind of an exciting time for me,” Dutcher said. “Year 19 on campus and first year to run my first official practice as head coach,” Dutcher said. “Super excited for that opportunity and the team has worked extremely hard in the fall.” The Aztecs have the talent on the roster, and found a new big man in seven-foot transfer Kameron Rooks to round out their athletic line up.

I knew almost nothing about men’s basketball on the Mesa coming to San Diego State. The two things I knew was that Viejas Arena was one of the most lively places in the country to watch a college basketball game, and that Steve Fisher was a college basketball folk hero. Nothing will ever change that. However, the last two years have been underwhelming for a program expected to earn bids to the NCAA Tournament year after year. SDSU basketball returns in a little more than a week, and with it comes a palette of peculiar storylines. This is the Aztecs first season since 1999 without longtime head coach Steve Fisher at the helm, and whose retirement could be just the kind of fire the Men on the Mesa need to get back on track. New head coach Dutcher has been groomed as Fisher’s successor for the past six years, since his official title became associate head coach, head coach in waiting, so fans and players won’t be seeing an unfamiliar face. While last season was not the way Fisher wanted to go out, Dutcher might just be the kind of fresh start for a program that needs one. This isn’t to say that Fisher was ever detrimental to the Scarlet and Black. He’s one of the most important sports figures ever to come out of SDSU, and there’s nothing anyone can do to tarnish the legacy he’s left over. That legacy includes turning a middling basketball program into a West Coast powerhouse, with 11 consecutive postseason appearances from 2006 to 2016, seven of which were of the March Madness variety. In the last couple years, football and basketball have been switched in terms of interest. Football has taken more and more of the spotlight from basketball, a far cry from the attitude from 2011 to 2015. While the ideal situation would be for both teams to share it, the time is now for basketball to take it back. Players like senior guard Trey Kell are why that’s possible. Kell led the Aztecs in many categories last season, including scoring (13.2), steals (1.4), assists (2.9) and minutes played (31.9). A pre-season pick to make the AllMountain West team, Kell has the potential for a truly special senior campaign. Still, that spotlight will rest on few people more than Dutcher. It’ll be a treat to see how he settles into his new role as the bonafide leader of this program. And if the reported results of last Friday’s against University of Southern California - a blowout win for the Aztecs - are any indication, Dutcher is more than ready for the challenge. But many questions remain. Will Dutcher continue Fisher’s legacy? Will Trey Kell continue to blossom into the offensive leader that the Aztecs have sorely needed? Will senior forward Malik Pope finally get over the injury bug and live up to his limitless potential? How will incoming transfers, junior guard Devin Watson and senior froward Kameron Rooks, gel with the returners? How will four-star recruits, redshirt freshman forward Jalen McDaniels and freshman guard Jordan Schakel, fare in their first taste of play while wearing red and black? Only time will tell. And that time is just around the corner. People should be excited about this season.

These Aztecs cannot rely on their legacy of past success, they must go out and create their own.

If the Aztecs can stay healthy they could be in for a big comeback season, reclaiming their MW dominance and finding a way into the NCAA tournament. In order to do that, SDSU needs to figure out how to win games in the fourth quarter. Dutcher said he has made it a priority to change. “We went on that streak where if we had a lead in the last five minutes, we never lost a game,” Dutcher said. “We started losing some of those games and some of it’s coaching, some of it lies on us, some of it lies on players performing down the stretch.” Dutcher has put his team and himself in the best position possible for success. The Aztecs have the ball in their court, and now it it time to see what they can do.

Photo by Kelly Smiley

Junior guard Jeremy Hemsley talks with former head coach Steve Fischer during a game in the 2016 season.

File Photo

A member of “The Show” holds up his SDSU flag.

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Photo by Kelly Smiley

Senior guard Trey Kell lays it in against Fresno State during a game in the 2016-17 season.

Photo by Kelly Smiley

Senior forward Khalia Lark brings the ball up the court during a game in the 2016-17 season.

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