Hey Tigers! It’s that time of the year again. Autumn leaves are falling, cool breezes fill the air and Homecoming is right around the corner! Mizzou is known for basically inventing Homecoming, so it is only right that we go big every year (or go home, lol). Here’s my take on A Christmas Carol as I break down Mizzou Homecoming’s past, present and future.
Past
Many, many years ago in 1911, Mizzou’s athletic director and head football coach, Chester Brewer, invited alumni to return home for the infamous Missouri-Kansas football game. His call to “come home” ended up drawing a crowd of over 9,000 people, and the crowd has only grown since then. Tradition is a vital component of the True Tiger Network and Mizzou; many core elements like pep rallies, a parade, a bonfire and a football game were present at the initial event. Past Homecoming themes have ranged from “Tradition Stands Forever” to “Strength in Stripes.”
Present
This year, Mizzou is doing all it can to stay safe while still upholding many of its valued Homecoming traditions. There are a number of Homecoming events including community service, a 5K, a blood drive and a virtual Hall of Fame ceremony. In fact, some of this year’s honorees include Grammy award-winning singer and songwriter, Sheryl Crow, and educator, administrator and Mizzou’s first Black graduate, Gus T. Ridgel. Fortunately, the Hall of Fame ceremony is not the only opportunity people have to engage in Homecoming festivities. You can tune in to the virtual Hall of Fame Ceremony here.
In fact, the Alumni Association has an entire webpage dedicated to “Homecoming At Home.” Home is where the heart is, so if you find that your home is miles away from Mizzou’s campus, then feel free to participate in some virtual events or contests.
Mizzou recently announced the Homecoming Royalty Top 10, and if you look at the list close enough, you will see our very own Alumni Association Student Board president (congrats Lynn)! Royalty voting has officially opened, so students can cast their vote here. Tune in to the
Future
Absolutely no one knows what the future holds. What we do know, however, is that no matter what, Mizzou will continue to be a trendsetter when it comes to Homecoming traditions for years to come. So far, we are off to a great start - not many schools can say that they have a virtual coloring contest! It is time to get excited, Tigers, because I have a feeling that Mizzou Homecoming will just keep getting better. Fight Tiger!
Comments