I’m responding to Tim Kochenderfer’s column (“You’re to blame for loss of championship game,” SN 4/9). I know his column was meant to be humorous, but I find no humor in the March 27-28, 1999, riot. I find his use of the riot as a joke to be insulting and degrading as a Spartan. He writes, “When I went to MSU and we lost the Final Four, we rioted. You guys didn’t do anything! It’s almost like you don’t care.”

When Kochenderfer writes a comment like this, it shows his ignorance. The fact of the matter is that the people who do care about MSU did not riot. They showed the Spartan pride and class they have, unlike Kochenderfer and his fellow pepper spray drinkers.

MSU didn’t win the championship in 2000 because of tipping cars, setting stuff on fire, etc. They won that championship because of hard work, dedication and great coaching. For Kochenderfer to say rioting is the reason for them winning degrades the accomplishment of the team.

MSU does not need to patent rioting, and yes, I do find rioting to be senseless. People (especially fellow Spartans) need to look past the rioting. They need to look at MSU for what it truly is, a top-rate university.

And you, Kochenderfer, need to reevaluate your sports philosophies.

Matthew Fredericks
education junior