NYC Big East 2024

The annual tradition fostered by Xavier University’s X-treme Fans is a dynamic fusion of sports enthusiasm, cultural exploration, and a commitment to education during their pilgrimage to the Big East Tournament in New York City. Beyond the electrifying basketball action and the involvement of the best fans in the country, 40 dedicated students will immerse themselves in the city's historical and cultural richness. From iconic landmarks to world-renowned museums, each experience becomes a unique opportunity for learning and growth. As a group, students will engage in educational and service opportunities facilitated by the Board of Directors. This tradition showcases a holistic approach that not only amplifies team spirit but also cultivates unique and lifelong Xavier memories in the vibrant tapestry of New York City.

Dates: Students are guaranteed three nights during the trip (Wednesday-Friday nights). Departure is planned for Tuesday, March 12th at 6:00pm. The group will leave NYC to return to Xavier’s campus on the morning of Saturday, March 16th. NOT ON SPRING BREAK.

Cost: The trip cost of $500 will include lodging at the Aliz Hotel, bussing to and from NYC, tickets to all games Xavier MBB plays in, and costs associated with any group activities.

Academics: Students are responsible for communication with professors regarding academic obligations, and are encouraged to do so as soon as possible if planning to attend the trip. From collaboration with Xavier Athletics and the Office of the Provost, a travel letter has been created (similar to Xavier Athletics student-athlete travel letters) regarding excused absences for the days of the trip. This is intended to improve communication with Xavier faculty and ensure student academic focus. However, as students academics are our priority, and we STRONGLY encourage students to get ahead and make a plan for days missed.

Group Selection: Students will be organized into groups of 4. Any group smaller than 4 will be grouped with others to fill the room.

Payment: Payment will be completed through the X-treme Fans EngageXU, where a store will be published titled “Big East Payment”. This will be sent out to all who signed up to attend.

PAYMENT SERVES AS RESERVATION FOR YOUR SPOT ON THE TRIP. THERE ARE NO REFUNDS FOLLOWING PAYMENT.

Policies: Students are expected to abide by all Xavier University and X-treme Fans travel policies from the time of trip departure to arrival back in Cincinnati. Any student found to be in violation of said policies shall be subject to immediate removal from all trip activities if deemed necessary by trip supervision, as well as further disciplinary action upon returning to campus.

Supervision: As with past trips, 3 members of Xavier Athletics staff will be on the trip to provide supervision and points of contact in case of emergency. The X-treme Fans Board of Directors will also be present for the entirety of the trip, and will serve as liaisons with each of the 15 Board members responsible for communication with 2–4 students. This communication will include where to pick up tickets, times for group activities and games, and regular check-ins.

Activities: During Big East festivities (on top of being in New York City), the potential for educational enrichment is immense. Group activities have been some of the most positively reported aspects of the trip, inclining the Board to schedule 1 non-athletic group activity per day. Other activities will be communicated with students, but current options include:

● Big East Career Day - opportunity for majors sports business, sports marketing, marketing, sports management, media studies, athletic training, etc. to network

● Big East Research Symposium - celebration of research via poster presentations from students at all Big East Universities

● Museum in New York Public Library - the historic library houses incredible facilities, study rooms of silence, and a museum housing documents including Washington’s original documents.

● Service - previous service events have been a highlight of the trip for those in attendance. Past work has been done with the Food Bank of New York. While an option, other communication is taking place with the blind community and their activities, as well as volunteering after the school day at NY public schools.

Communication with Students: Students planning to attend are invited to attend the upcoming Big East Trip Open Meeting (details can be found on the X-treme Fans Instagram). Students selected for the trip will be notified and added to an email list.