As men’s basketball prepares for its duel with Kansas, the student body is perhaps more focused on the pre-game activities. For the first time in school history, Iowa State University will host College GameDay, and the line to get in is already forming at Hilton Coliseum.

The popular national sports pregame show travels to college towns that are hosting the most “high profile” game of the week for both college football and basketball.

College GameDay is a panel that consists of basketball analysts — some former players and coaches — who discuss the week’s game and choose winners all the while fans fill seats, cheer and hold up signs in the background.

Because of the prestige and attention that comes with hosting the popular ESPN program, this is a huge step forward for the men’s basketball team and the university as a whole. In addition to the rankings, Big 12 championship and tournament appearances, Iowa State now has another accomplishment to add to its resume.

The hosting of College GameDay also shows the growth of the rivalry with Kansas’ men’s basketball program. The Worldwide Leader in Sports has recognized the prestige of both the program and the atmosphere Hilton Coliseum provides.

All of these recognitions, in addition to the conference titles and tournament appearances, are about time for ISU fans. It’s been a snowball effect in terms of anticipation for the nation to recognize the university on the same level as Duke, Texas, Kentucky, UCONN and so many more schools who have had the College GameDay experience.

However, with that in mind, know that your actions will be a direct representation of our university, so conduct yourself in the same manner that you would if you were not being granted this relative anonymity. That includes your personal conduct as well as the most highly anticipated part of the event: making and displaying your own “GameDay sign.”

There have been several past instances where signs have displayed vulgar or profane language. While these signs are designed to be funny — and very well may be — keep in mind that the show is nationally televised and millions of college basketball fans across the country will know that Iowa State University students lack the tact and class to conduct themselves as adults if they choose to go down the road of childishness. Not all Cyclone fans are adults and the younger ones should have an appropriate environment in which to enjoy the day.

This isn’t meant to be a mothering editorial. We aren’t here to tell you how to act, what to put on your signs and to be respectful of the other team. Go out, have fun and represent the university in a fashion that many fans have felt it deserves. It’s been a long time coming for all Iowa State fans with much anticipation leading up to the weekend.

All we are here to do is to remind you just how high-level this event is and that all actions on GameDay will directly impact how other college basketball fans view Iowa State. Show them the best version of Cyclone Nation. Show them the passion that lives inside of Hilton Coliseum. Most importantly, display a level of class that will make Iowa State and the Ames community proud.