Recent changes in college sports have positioned Oregon State University and Washington State University as the pioneering members of the Pac-12 conference, with noteworthy additions from the Mountain West, which includes Boise State, San Diego State, Colorado State, and Fresno State.
With the departure of several high-profile institutions, OSU has a fresh start to redefine its legacy and showcase resilience, through a revenge tour. OSU will set its sights on leading through innovation, carving out a distinctive place in college athletics while remaining focused despite the changes.
“I don’t think it changes anything … we got a good schedule, it’s a competitive schedule so I mean we are in charge of our own destiny, if we go out good things will happen,” said Beavers wide receiver Trent Walker.
The new conference setup may spotlight the team differently, but the focus remains on winning.
“Everyone wants to win, there’s always an importance to win … I think the mentality hasn’t changed and we’re trying to win every game,” Walker said.
This shift allows one to build a unique identity and capitalize on fresh opportunities. While the departure of significant programs has altered the competitive field, it opens doors for OSU to establish new rivalries and highlight its strengths.
Offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Ryan Gunderson spoke on how the new conference affects preparation.
“I don’t think it does,” Gunderson said. “We are creatures of habit and we are kind of in a submarine.
“You just close the hatch and do what you do every week. I don’t look ahead to opponents, you’re so focused on playing well this week. Everybody else knows the schedule. I know it’s Idaho State and I really don’t worry about anything else past that; let the GAs and the analysts deal with the preparation for the next game.”
When it comes to game day, the new conference has not shifted the athlete’s core focus: being victorious.
“It doesn’t matter who we play against. We are excited to win,” said Ellis Spikner, forward for the OSU men’s soccer team.
“All we are about is taking care of ourselves and getting better every day. We’re just happy to play and take care of what’s in front of us.”
In embracing this new chapter, the Beavers are adjusting and focusing on high standards. With this approach, OSU aims to navigate through this evolving landscape.