The fall season is coming upon us and that means it’s time for Bakersfield College’s annual alumni barbecue. This year marks the 60th year hosted by the Alumni Association. Alumni from all around the valley traveled to Bakersfield to honor the 60th barbecue dinner. This year’s event was held at Stramler Park. Along with the alumni, fall athletes and coaches were in attendance of the dinner.
Family and friends of the athletes were also in attendance at the dinner. Athletes playing soccer with the children in attendance was a great sight to see as it shows the camaraderie between the college and the community.
There was a very special guest at the dinner, the first ever BC Alumni Association president, John Boydstun. Boydstun, 91, a WWII veteran, has never missed the annual event that he started when he was at BC. He started the event with the idea of having fun. At first the dinner began as an event for the football team, but over the years it has grown to become an event for all the fall sports at BC.
“Feels great to see everyone and see old friends,” Boydstun stated about the success of the event and the long-lasting tradition at BC.
The dinner began with the BC cheer team performing a dance for the attendants. Alumni President Becki Whitson then introduced the fall sports teams and the crowd showed its appreciation for the teams. Whitson, who has had her fair share of annual dinners said that it had its up’s and down’s. As far as the amount of alumni that continue to return for the barbecue she said, “It’s no surprise … athletes change, but the alumni won’t.”
BC Athletic Director Sandi Taylor was at the barbecue dinner and was pleased with the turnout of the event.
“It’s great to get a look at the athletes this year and meet up with old friends,” Taylor explained.
As far as her expectations go for this year’s fall teams, Taylor seemed hopeful.
“We are off to a great start … compete like there is no tomorrow,” she said. “Coaches really prepared players for this season.”
Taylor said she is very pleased with the players’ chemistry, saying, “I’m pleased at how the players get along with one another on and off the field/court.”
Whitson told athletes helping out at the barbecue that “the event was a success across the board.” Julia Delarosa, a member of the girls’ basketball team, believed the turnout was pretty successful, and had a big turnout. Along with working the dinner, the girls’ basketball team was promoting their fundraiser. Players on the team are available for adoption at $60, which includes a portrait of the player purchased, a t-shirt with the player’s name on the back, and a season ticket to all regular season home games. For an additional $30 you can upgrade to a VIP ticket to the skybox, where food and drinks are served during games.
The menu included choice of steak or chicken, salad, beans, and a bread roll. The BC culinary students prepared the food. Beer was provided as well for those who were looking to spice the night up.