Now that the “Family Day” football game is over, I want to ask NIU to do me a favor.

It’s not a large request. It’s not a greedy request. Instead, it is a request based on school spirit and loyalty to the Huskies.

My favor – bring back the thunder sticks.

When I think back to freshman year football games, I remember the thunder sticks. I remember how loud the student section would get while the opposing offense was on the field. I remember how everyone would make an ‘X’ as Garrett Wolfe stepped into the back field.

I remember spelling out words with friends in hopes of getting on the Jumbotron, and the complaints from the parents sitting behind me.

I remember it all, and I miss it.

Sure they were obnoxious, and I understand that the parents didn’t like them as much, but the students loved them. Thunder sticks allowed the fans to interact with the action on the field. They helped unify the student section, and made the whole college football game experience better.

Of course any item introduced to thousands of college kids at a football game can cause a controversy, but I think the benefits of the thunder sticks truly outweigh the risks.

Not only do the noise makers provide excitement for fans, but they also create room for added revenue. Two years ago, almost every student who walked into the stadium was handed at least one set of thunder sticks.

And on those sticks were the names of local businesses advertising their products or services. Since thousands of students receive the sticks, the advertising benefits are obvious.

NIU has seen corporate sponsorship rise 235 percent throughout the 2007-08 season, and I’d like to the school follow that trend. Whether building sponsorships or advertising opportunities, thunder sticks are a good solution.

Of course, this is just my theory, but I continue to see small schools, much like NIU, boost the attractiveness of their schools by following the latest college trends.

Personally, I’d like to see the players’ names above their numbers, and pride stickers on their helmets. I’d also like to see the athletics marketing department spend more time creating fun ways for fans to interact with the game.

Of course the Chipotle Kickoff offers fans an entertaining five minutes, but thunder sticks provide fun throughout the whole game. Or at least until one pops.

Thunder sticks are a clear solution. Not only are they great for the football fans, but they can work to the school’s advantage as well.

So please, bring them back.