By Brianna Wallen
News Editor
Blue-and-white pride swept through the Moore Field House Parking Lot on Thursday, Oct. 2, as students came together for a lively pep rally to launch Homecoming weekend.
Hosts business administration major Chaz James, a sophomore, and communication major Aidon McCray, a junior, kept the energy sky-high, and led the crowd in a night of cheers, music and campus celebration.
“I like the school spirit and seeing everyone come out and celebrate together,” business administration major Jordan Patrick, a senior, said.
Patrick’s words reflected the atmosphere of the night, as the crowd buzzed with excitement while students scored TVs, iPads and free T-shirts during giveaways.
Students posed for photos, leaped into the euro bungee and raced through the football obstacle course.
“I saw some people flipping in the air and dancing on the stage,” Patrick said. “The food was good, too.”
Food trucks added to the excitement as students lined up for sweet kettle corn from Calandrelli Kettle Corn Co. and refreshing treats from Kona Ice.
Music from DJ Fire kept the crowd moving and set the tone for a night packed with energy and fun.
Nursing and public health major Mia White, a junior, said that the event had a great turnout and even better treats to enjoy.
“The kettle corn and snow cones were my favorite, but the music and vibe brought everyone together,” White said.
For seniors like Patrick, this night was a bittersweet moment.
“I’m definitely going to miss this part of college,” Patrick said. “It’s really my last Homecoming.”
Various campus clubs lit up the stage with energetic performances while fierce dance-offs kept the crowd on its feet.
This created a night that showcased the talent, pride and spirit of the university. Audience members were also called on stage to show off their best move.
While many teams battled it out, audience members said certain groups stole the show.
“My favorite performances were from the cheer team, dance team and the drumline,” health science major Zahra Bayonne, a sophomore, said.
Bayonne said that she plans on attending this event in years to come.
“This is my second year coming here, and I plan on going again next year,” Bayonne said.
For many students, the event marked their first pep rally experience.
Health science major Zamira Ewart, a freshman, said she enjoyed the lively atmosphere and sense of togetherness.
“This is my first pep rally, so I really didn’t know what to expect, but it was so much fun,” Ewart said.
Ewart highlighted that the event provided an opportunity for students to connect with their peers without worrying about the cost.
“I like the affordability and community aspect,” Ewart said.
As the night came to a close, students lingered under the lights, taking photos and sharing laughs with friends.
The pep rally being set outdoors was a change from its previous Moore Field House location.
The pep rally ended on a high note with the new “Superman” movie being showcased at Jess Dow Field for students to enjoy.
With blue-and-white pride shining bright, the pep rally set the stage for a weekend full of celebration and school spirit.
