Murray, Ky. (WSIL) -- The Murray State Racers, a number four regional seed, secured their first-ever appearance in the College World Series. Their unexpected success in Omaha is creating a buzz not only on the field but throughout the Murray State University campus.
The Racers faced off against Arkansas this afternoon, and their historic run is having a notable impact, particularly at the university bookstore. The demand for Murray State baseball gear has surged, with fans, alumni, and newcomers eager to grab items featuring the Racer logo.
Shawn Touney, Executive Director of Marketing and Communication said, "What can't be overstated is the tremendous exposure for the university as a whole and its across multiple areas. Overall enrollment, student recruitment in terms of prospective students and families who are looking at their college options and having Murray State out there so much."
The excitement has led to increased traffic in the bookstore, with many customers ordering from across the U.S.
Andrew Dowdy, bookstore Director said, "It's definitely something we've never experienced here in the bookstore so it's been very exciting. We've brought in a lot of merchandise. We've had a lot of traffic from alumni, fans, just throughout the U.S. ordering from our website. We've carried a few world series t-shirts and they are selling as fast as we can get them in."
Dowdy added, they have reordered four times, increasing the order each time. They have added a tab to their digital bookstore titled "World Series", creating a shortcut for all things Murray State baseball world series related.Â
While the racers make history on the diamond, the Murray State University Bookstore feels a surge in pride and a boost to the bottom line.
