If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be a part of the CSU basketball team on game day, just ask Quinn Peterson.

The sophomore communication studies major recently won CSU’s “Ram for a Day” promotion and got access to be with the CSU basketball team before Wednesday night’s home game against Denver. While the Rams were unable to pull out the win against one of their biggest in-state rivals, Peterson got an experience he’ll remember for a very long time.

When head coach Larry Eustachy announced the promotion last week, Peterson picked up his student ticket, which in turn functioned as his entry into the raffle put on at Sunday’s game against Southwestern Oklahoma State. As an avid Ram fan who attended almost every home game in his two years, the opportunity to spend a day with his favorite college basketball team was a little hard to believe at first.

“It took a second to sink in because I couldn’t believe that I’d actually won,” Peterson said. “But I was thrilled to have this chance because I love CSU sports.”

After receiving Under Armour CSU basketball gear, the junior from Minnesota got his chance to meet Eustachy, his staff and the rest of the team. From there Peterson got to join players and coaches for their pregame dinner and shootaround, as well as getting the chance to stand next to CSU mascot CAM the Ram during pregame introductions. To top it all off, Peterson received Eustachy’s two courtside tickets behind CSU’s bench to watch the rest of the game.

For someone not associated with the program, it can be a little intimidating meeting and getting to know some of CSU’s most well-known athletes. However, coaches and players alike welcomed Quinn onto the program and gave him a day that he feels very lucky to have had.

“Everyone was really cool and welcomed me in like I was part of the team,” Peterson said. “They were obviously pretty busy because it was a game day but it was awesome to get a look inside what it’s like to be a part of the program for a day.”

While there aren’t any plans for future “Ram for a Day” promotions, this one was chalked up as a success. As a longtime basketball player and fan, being a part of a Division I program like CSU’s was only a dream until he his name was announced last Sunday.

“It was such a privilege meeting all the coaches and players,” Peterson said. “I’m very appreciative to the entire athletic department and basketball team for allowing me to be a part of this experience.”

Men’s Basketball Beat Reporter Keegan Pope can be reached at sports@collegian.com or on Twitter @kpopecollegian.