If a visitor from the future had arrived in Ames in the late 1990s and told the struggling Cyclones, “Fear not, I come bearing news of great joy. In the same year, you will quash Nebraska, continue your dynasty of domination over the Hawkeyes AND go to your third consecutive bowl game in the same year,” we would have guffawed in disbelief.

On Sunday, the announcement was made that the Cyclones had been invited to the Crucial.com Humanitarian Bowl in Boise, Idaho.

In not-too-ancient history, the Cyclones had a hard time winning twice in the same season, much less mustering a bowl-worthy showing.

Heck, three years ago, we would have happily traveled to Nome, Alaska, for the Mush Bowl or some such thing.

This year, we look upon a bowl appearance as a Cyclone birthright. When we were stuck in the bowl-pick limbo last week, plenty of fair-weather Cyclones started to act choosy.

If some of last week’s discussion about only going to subtropical bowls continues, it’s cause for a serious attitude check.

Granted, had the Cyclones not been beaten most of the last half of the season, we may not have been duking it out for a third-tier bowl slot.

Considering the sorry showing against teams such as UConn, the word “humanitarian” may have been apropos in describing the mercy the Cyclones were at with bowl prospects.

But the Cyclones making an impressive showing against teams that used to eat them for breakfast is proof that this team and coaching staff are no longer a flash in the pan.

They are evidence of a consistent, quality athletic program able to deliver year after year.

True Cyclone fans will travel in support of the team and enjoy the mountains, outdoor sports and Boise hospitality.

Team support and fan enthusiasm will help build a tradition of recognized Cyclone supporters, crucial for getting bigger, more prestigious bowl invitations.

For a fan base frenzied with Heisman fever earlier in the season, such support should be a given, and not based on a condition of going to Florida.

The transformation that the Cyclones have gone through during recent years is nothing short of miraculous.

Congratulations, Cyclones, on a successful season and building on a winning tradition.

We can’t wait to see the caravan of fans making their way out to watch you beat Boise State at the Crucial.com Humanitarian Bowl.

Editorial Board:Cavan Reagan, Amber Billings, Ayrel Clark, Charlie Weaver, Rachel Faber Machacha.