These trips also have a meaningful impact on UNO’s student-athletes. When students support the Mavericks sports teams, it not only boosts team spirit but also brings everyone in the university closer together. Athletes feel motivated when they see their fellow Mavericks cheering them on during games and events. These trips help build a supportive atmosphere that makes the game experience better for everyone.

"I feel like our campus as a whole is incredibly supportive. Especially after dealing with COVID and not having people around, you really miss the fans. So, seeing how the student section comes out to support us is amazing. Not just at home games with all the signs, flags, and getting the student section extra loud, but they also travel with us,” said Nolan Sullivan, captain of the Omaha Hockey team. “They went to Arizona State, they went to St. Cloud. We even sang the fight song after the game in St. Cloud. They did tunnel walks for us at Arizona State. All these gestures mean a lot to us and show how much support we have, not only from the community, but also from the students themselves."

One of the biggest benefits of these trips is their affordability. Recognizing the diverse needs of the student body, efforts are made to keep costs affordable without compromising on the quality of the experience.

“The trips are much cheaper than if you were to go alone. Many of these are trips I probably wouldn't have been able to afford without the support of the student involvement office. So, I think that was really important,” said Nolan Williams, a junior at UNO.

Fostering a strong sense of community and belonging among students brings many lasting effects. When students feel connected to their peers and their school, it helps them do better in their studies, make friends, and feel happier overall. Being part of a supportive community gives students a sense of security during tough times and encourages them to work hard to reach their goals.

“Spirit Trips really changed my college experience. Before, I was mostly just a student who went to class and then went home or to work. I never really did any extracurricular activities or anything like that, unless it was required for my scholarship. But going on these trips, meeting new people, and everything, it opened up a whole new world of getting involved on campus for me,” said Casey Wells, president of the Maverick Maniacs and senior at UNO.

To celebrate Omaha Hockey’s first time making it to the “Frozen Faceoff,” the Office of Spirit, Tradition, and Signature events is bringing 20 students to St. Paul, Minnesota, to add cheering Mavericks to the student section this weekend.

Each of these trips are designed with student enjoyment in mind. From tailgate parties to sightseeing adventures, each trip is crafted to offer a blend of sportsmanship and leisure. It's about creating memories that will be cherished long after the final buzzer sounds.

If you are interested in participating in a Spirit Trip, you can register for the upcoming trip to Sioux Falls, South Dakota on March 28 to watch Omaha Hockey compete in the regional tournament. The low cost of the trip includes transportation and a ticket to the game.