Inside the CLT Gold Mine: How Charlotte’s student section is preparing for the fall

With Charlotte’s football season quickly approaching, the campus community is preparing for an exciting season at Richardson Stadium. The CLT Gold Mine is the official student section for the Charlotte 49ers; the organization’s president, Drayton Thrasher, an education major, answered questions about the group’s plans for the upcoming year.

For those who don’t know, what is the CLT Gold Mine?

The CLT Gold Mine is the official student section for Charlotte Athletics. It is not just for football and basketball — the student section goes to soccer, softball, baseball, volleyball and other Charlotte sports.

We host unique giveaways, including shirts or rally towels, for students. The CLT Gold Mine leadership team helps plan student promotions, fan engagement and marketing for events.

Who makes up the CLT Gold Mine? How can a student join?

The coolest thing about the CLT Gold Mine is every Charlotte student is a part of the student section. Students get into every game free with just a tap of their student ID. There are no dues or applications to join. All you have to do is show up to the games, sit in the student section and cheer for the Niners. To get involved with the CLT Gold Mine, contact the CLT Gold Mine Instagram account or reach out to someone who is already involved.

What can we expect to see from the CLT Gold Mine for the upcoming football season and other fall sports?

You can expect the CLT Gold Mine to be packed for football this year. Having the 49th Acre tailgating lot right next to the stadium is a superpower. Tailgating and going to college football games are a big part of the college experience, so expect Jerry Richardson Stadium to be rocking on Sept. 5.

We will also increase our on-campus presence through tabling and marketing to promote athletic events. Men’s soccer was picked to finish first in the American Conference this year, so there is a lot of hype around the team. Women’s soccer and women’s volleyball have some of the most intimate and fan-engaging environments at their games. I am super excited for all of the fall sports!

How can alumni, fans and community members help the CLT Gold Mine create a great atmosphere for Charlotte 49ers sporting events?

Alumni, fans and community members can help the CLT Gold Mine by embracing their Niner pride and cheering their hearts out along with students. Together, we can create an atmosphere that no team wants to play against.

What else do you want people to know about the CLT Gold Mine?

The CLT Gold Mine is a bridge that allows students to feel connected and proud about the phenomenal university we attend. The more connected you are to the school, the more motivated you are to be successful. I can’t wait to see everyone loud and proud in the CLT Gold Mine.

Written by Drayton Thrasher and Andrew James