The San Diego State student section has become renown for its clever chants, creative presentation and vocal intensity at men's basketball games this season.
On one topic, Aztecs coach Steve Fisher hopes the home mob stays mum.
In an open letter this week addressed to the "Aztec Faithful," Fisher asked the student section, known as "The Show," to sidestep any cheap shots directed at the religious affiliation of Saturday opponent BYU.
The Mormon Church owns the university in Provo, Utah, a connection that led some San Diego State fans to reportedly chant "You're still Mormon!" when the Cougars hosted the Aztecs last month.
BYU won the game 71-58.
"We cannot cross the line into topics that are out of bounds and distasteful, particularly making fun of one’s religion," Fisher wrote.
CBS will nationally televise Saturday's repeat matchup from the Viejas Arena.
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The Aztecs (27-1) are ranked fourth in the country in the ESPN/USA Today Coaches Poll, the highest ranking in school history. BYU (25-2) is ranked seventh.
The following is Fisher's full letter to fans, provided by the San Diego State athletic department:
Dear Aztec Faithful -
We know the energy and enthusiasm brought by The Show is what makes Viejas Arena one of the toughest home courts in the country. It is important to remember that when you are in the student section, you represent something greater than yourself. You represent San Diego State, and we need your help to make sure the representation of our university is a positive one. Our upcoming game against top ten opponent BYU will be televised nationally by CBS, and will be one of the biggest games in the respective histories of both programs. We always encourage The Show to continue to be the most creative, funny, and loudest student section in America, but we cannot cross the line into topics that are out of bounds and distasteful, particularly making fun of one’s religion. Please discourage any chants or signs that cross this line. We will not permit signs that are derogatory or disrespectful of our opponent. Let’s win this game, but in a respectful fashion befitting your university. GO AZTECS!
Steve Fisher
Head Basketball Coach
