Ohio University’s Homecoming traditions are greatly anticipated by students and Athens residents alike. OU offers a large variety of opportunities for immersion in both fun and in remembrance of its rich history.
For many, OU’s Homecoming is centered around the football game, but there is more to OU Homecoming than just football.
For those seeking a history-rich event, Alden Library has just the fix. Each year, the library displays a historical archive comprised of student newspapers, photographs, handbooks and yearbooks, to name a few. Students can browse the many tables that hold these memorabilia, which gives them a chance to reflect on the history that molded OU as we know it today.
Falkyn Roth, a senior studying history, is a desk assistant at Alden Library, said he enjoys the collections while also watching them first-hand come to fruition. Given this, Roth offers a distinct perspective about the archives.
“It’s cool to see it all come together,” Roth said.
Many students have families who have previously attended OU, which makes this collection an even more enriching experience.
“My father, uncle and aunt went here years ago,” Roth said. “My favorite aspect of the archives is the yearbooks. It’s kind of fun to track them down in here.”
As well as considering the litany of historical pieces, it is exciting to also entertain the potential of current and future Bobcats and what they will consequently contribute to this collection.
The fourth floor of Alden Library will host the OU Archives Annual Homecoming Display from Oct. 9 at 8 a.m. through Oct. 12 at 7 p.m.
At this year’s Homecoming football game, the Bobcats will face Northern Illinois University at Peden Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 12, at 3:30 p.m. Students, faculty and Athens residents greatly look forward to the game.
Hundreds congregate on College Green each year for Yell Like Hell, a signature tradition of OU’s homecoming. Yell Like Hell will offer live music provided by the Marching 110 and local bands — like Velvet Green. There will be tables with everything from music to games to fun giveaways. The pep rally transcends the typical school-spirit type rally; it has something to fit everyone.
Nick Latham, a sophomore studying theater, enjoyed last year’s rally with his friends and plans to attend Yell Like Hell again on Thursday.
“I went to my first Yell like Hell last year,” Latham said. “My friends and I aren’t exactly football fans, but this was actually pretty fun.”
Yell Like Hell will be held on Thursday, Oct.10 from 7-8 p.m. on College Green.
The anticipation doesn’t stop there; aside from the action inside Peden Stadium, fans look forward to the football game by tailgating outside of Peden Stadium at Pepsi Tailgreat Park. The love for the game is apparent in everyone who partakes in all the tailgating festivities, such as cooking out and playing lawn games.
Quentin Reams, a sixth-year pre-law student studying communication studies, looks forward to the homecoming tailgate each year. Reams reflects on his years spent tailgating while anticipating what could be his last time.
“I’ve been tailgating for about three years. Last homecoming weekend, there was a tailgate going on before the game, you know? I went there with my parents. We had a pretty good time,” Reams said. “During halftime, I went to go find our tailgate again to grab a few drinks and go back in the stadium. That tailgate was shut down, though. I happened to find a random tailgate and they welcomed me in. They said, ‘have a few beers and some food; join us!’”
Reams also notes the recent lack of tailgate attendees.
“I’d like to see some more Bobcats tailgating,” Reams said. “What better way to spend a Saturday morning than with good company?”
Reams remarks how Bobcats are not only school-spirited, but kind-spirited and welcoming as well.
“We had a good time and talked. It was pretty sweet,” Reams said. “Bobcats are always welcoming. I feel like you can just join any tailgate you want. They will not turn you away.”
Other homecoming events include Paint the Town Green, the Homecoming parade, Pack the Pantry and many others. Check out OU’s website for the full list of activities and times.
