As most of us know, Harvard defines tradition. When the clock strikes 12 on the eve of the first day of exam period, we expect to hear screams. When the snow falls for the first time each winter, we expect to see students sliding down the steps of Widener on dining hall trays. And with the coming of each football season, we look forward to the Harvard-Yale game.

But as Midnight Madness proved, tradition is not always the answer to initiating school spirit.

When the clock struck 12 on Saturday night, and the dripping-wet fans were still piling into the rink, tradition, if only temporarily, was put to rest, Midnight Madness proved that students and athletes can unite as one, in support of a school and an athletic program striving to succeed.

About 15 minutes before the doors opened at 11:30 p.m., no one rushed for cover. Not even the students who knew that their hopes of winning a T-shirt for being one of the first 60 people at the rink were shattered. After all, there was a fresh, new hockey team to see and excitement to confront.

Harvard coach Ronn Tomassoni, who is usually clad in a suit and tie for each game, substituted his more formal attire for a sweatsuit. Tomassoni's lack of formal wear was indicative of the laid-back atmosphere.

Not only was the event a way to bring the Harvard community out to the rink and get it excited for the upcoming season, but it also was a great way to have fun.

For one night, the crowd and the players were one. For once.