Homecoming ought to be more inclusive

Homecoming is a special time of year. It is a time for blessed union between an institution’s current student body and the droves of alumni who return to celebrate their Alma mater.

Homecoming traditions date back to the early 20th century. Some of the earliest events included the prototypes for today’s homecoming standbys such as a formal dance, election of royalty, a parade through town, and pep rallies, all surrounding a central football game (especially one against a long standing rival).

Several schools came up with the various constituent homecoming components before the practice spread and became the norm around the country.

Over the years, homecoming traditions have adapted to changing times and climates. Years ago, a Chadron State Homecoming celebration always featured a bonfire on C Hill. Such a practice today would not be prudent, although the tradition lives on in a ceremonial—albeit flameless—lighting of C Hill.

This year’s celebration also offers Chadron State’s answer to the growing national obsession with zombie apocalypse scenarios.

Some institutions, whether lacking or disinterested in a football program, have adapted their homecoming to center around another sport. Some campus communities gather around soccer or ice hockey. Others center their events around more than one sport.

Despite living in the 21st century, our homecoming has changed little, while our institution has changed tremendously.

Chadron State has been lucky to have the consistency of a football game to cheer at and celebrate every year.

However, our campus is co-ed, and so too our exciting array of team sports.

Might we not also celebrate other sports for homecoming as a campus and community?

Our volleyball team is scheduled to be away during our homecoming festivities. While volleyball may not be the center of our school’s homecoming celebration we would no doubt benefit from scheduling the team to be at home rather than away for homecoming.

If we can support—nay, promote!—a zombie homecoming, we can ensure the intrepid ladies of our volleyball team are home to chance being munched upon by the undead like the rest of us!