Swarm the Court

The Virginia Commonwealth University men’s basketball team kicks off the season with an exhibition match against city rival Virginia Union University on Thursday, Nov. 4, at 7:30 p.m.

The game also presents a chance for Rams fans to be a part of VCU’s newest social media venture. Foursquare users can check in at the Siegel Center to help earn the Swarm badge — a badge achieved when more than 50 Foursquare users check in at the same location.

VCU is one of the first colleges in Virginia to join the Foursquare for Universities program — which is aimed at helping students, alumni and staff share information about their school — and the mass check in is part of the launch of the university’s page on the social website. By following VCU on Foursquare, users can find out about specials at university locations, receive notifications about events happening around campus and unlock special university badges, such as the Bookworm Bender, Munchies, Quad Squatter, Smells Like School Spirit and Campus Explorer.

“We're excited to use this fun new endeavor to help students and other Rams fans find out about VCU events and get information about special deals around campus,” said Tammy Berwanger, social media and marketing manager for University Marketing. “Fans can help us swarm the court on Thursday by checking in at the Siegel Center while they root for the Rams.”

The Rams’ regular season begins on Friday, Nov. 12, when UNC Greensboro visits the Siegel Center. Check out the VCU Athletics website for the full 2010-11 men’s basketball schedule.