Murray State University Athletics
'Joi's Boyz' Leading The Cheers At Lady Racer Home Games
1/13/2004 12:00:00 AM | Women's Basketball
The Murray State University women's basketball team may not have as many fans as their male counterparts, but their followers are just as devoted. They even have their own group of t-shirt wearing crazies..."Joi's Boyz."
The group takes its name from Lady Racers head coach Joi Williams and was conceived as a counterpoint to "Mick's (Cronin) Maniacs," a section of students that cheer at the men's games.
Organized by MSU student Justin Kane, the Joi's Boyz also include Chris Compton, Matt Congleton and Kelly Fineman.
“We figure if Mick can have his Maniacs, Joi needs her boys,” Kane said. “These women work hard every week, and they need more people to come out and support them.”
The MSU athletics department is assisting the group by purchasing professionally made t-shirts for the group, but for now, everyone makes his own, with "Joi's Boyz" on the front and a player's name and number on the back.
During Christmas break, all four of the Boyz drove back to Murray for the games against Chicago State and Western Kentucky. Three were in Louisville for the holidays, and the fourth was in Danville. But the long drive did not deter them.
The Lady Racers certainly appreciate the support.
“I'm really excited about it,” senior point guard Jenny Bowden said. “ We still would like more support from the students. But those guys have really helped, particularly against Western, because they brought so many fans with them.”
Williams, who has the MSU women playing better than they have in years, couldn't agree more.
“I think it's great,” she said. “I really appreciate their support, and I think it's great for the atmosphere. Our kids noticed them right away and they were thrilled. Hopefully it's something that we can build on.”
Kane says anyone can join the group.
“Just get a shirt, decorate it, come to the games, get rowdy and cheer for the ladies,” he said. “We'd like to get someone for every player on the team.”
The MSU Athletics department has already purchased additional shirts for Joi's Boyz and would like the group to grow.
The Lady Racers open a three-game Ohio Valley Conference homestand on Thursday at 5:15 p.m. at the Regional Special Events Center against Samford.
