New KSU students gather to watch Golden Flashes in College World Series

KENT, Ohio - A large crowd of incoming  Kent State University freshmen gathered to show their support for the baseball team, playing Thursday in the College World Series in Omaha, Nebraska.

About 20 freshmen cheering "Let's Go Kent!" strolled into the student union Thursday afternoon, as the Golden Flashes took on South Carolina on national television.

"The incoming students are here for an overnight campus visit as part their orientation with 'Destination Kent State,'" said Eric Mansfield, the university's spokesman.

Kent State was scheduled to play South Carolina Wednesday night, but the game was rained out.

Dana Martin, 18, from Broadview Heights, said watching Kent in the tournament makes orientation week exciting.

"Just to see the energy and how everyone kind of comes together and celebrates it, it's really cool to see," Martin said.

Other freshmen were excited that the College World Series will help shine a spotlight on the university.

"Not too many people know about Kent State and with us on TV and winning so many games, it's going to bring more of a crowd," said Brennan Lance, 17, from Middleburg Heights.

"I think it's help us recruit more players and build the athletic department," said Alexa Maslowski, of Brunswick.

Unfortunately, the excitement from the incoming students turned to disappointment when the final pitch was thrown. Kent State lost to South Carolina 4-1.