Another homecoming just wrapped up at Winthrop University this past weekend. It appeared to again be a successful one. I know I had loads of fun, and was much more tired than I originally thought I would be.
20 years ago, this may have not been the case at all.
I wrote a piece four years ago as Winthrop's Homecoming was just starting to change and mature, mostly because of the student body and alums stepping in. Now it has become arguably the most unsung college homecoming in the Carolinas. Back in the mid 90s, I didn't think I would be saying this.
During that era, it was literally all about the game and the NPHC step show and that was it. Most of the parties were catered for the students only. Also, festivities took place in February, not uncommon for a medium size, liberal arts college without a football team.
In 2009, the university decided to move festivities to the Fall. Slowly mixers and socials became less frequent and there were more activities to cross over for students and alums alike.
This year alone, 2014, could be the year that Homecoming has turned the corner and taken that next step. Over the years, the pre game tailgate has become the most popular event and grows yearly, attracting more and more student organizations and alums. Even the unusually cold weather didn't thin the crowd as people still came in droves.
A pre Homecoming talent show was added a few years ago. The on campus Homecoming party on Friday night has become a staple. This year, it was a Mardi Gras celebration preceded by a stand up comedy performance by comedian/actor Brandon T. Jackson. At least seven off campus parties were held between Thursday and Saturday. It appears the game and the step show are no longer the main attractions. Nevertheless, homecoming is finally fun for all ages and demographics. It's all about recapturing the social experience and showing the alums how welcome they are.
It feels great to return every year. The energy level is high wherever a group of WU alums are gathering and for those few days, everyone is back at school again. The worries of the everyday world are put on hold until Sunday. And as with most events, social media and smart phones have enhanced the experience. One can keep up with classmates year round and view pictures and updates from the festivities. Indeed the WU has come a long long way since 1996.
Now let's just see what happens when Winthrop finally gets a football team.
Do you normally attend Winthrop's homecoming events? Did you attend this year? What do you most enjoy about Homecoming?
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