As a basketball announcer, I read with interest Paul Trembacki's (Tuesday) Exponent column accusing students of lacking enthusiasm.

It's a two-way street between the announcer and others: the fans, the cheerleaders and the pep band. They all have to work together but if the announcer isn't enthusiastic the others almost surely won't be. Is it, three - Carson Cunningham!, or a three pointer by Carson Cunningham?

It's interesting that you mention Minnesota. When I began my announcing career I patterned myself after their announcer. Now that fellow exuded enthusiasm from beginning to end. His introductions were something to behold. No wonder the place rocks!

The next time you attend a game note how the fans, cheerleaders, pep band and announcer are playing off each other. Do they work together? Is the announcer working with the fans to raise the level of enthusiasm?

Enthusiasm is contagious. The announcer's job is to infect the fans with his enthusiasm.