(Illustration by Olena Makhnovets)

Opinion: Feeling the Hilltopper school spirit of Homecoming

When you hear the word, “homecoming,” you probably think of football, parades and the parties being thrown during homecoming weekend. However, it is the school spirit that makes big events like homecoming so special.

So, why is school spirit so important? Well, here is why I think school spirit is important, especially at Western. 

School spirit is more than just wearing school colors. To me, it is the heartbeat of the Hill, especially when homecoming approaches. Some may think that school spirit is not that important, but it’s a game changer, particularly for the homecoming game.

Coming from personal experiences, school spirit is what makes the school experience. In high school, we had spirit week, a week where each day had a different theme leading up to the big game and even the homecoming dance.

The amazing part about homecoming on the Hill is the parade. The parade is consisted of floats from different organizations on campus and the Big Red Marching Band

This campus is full of students with diverse backgrounds, beliefs and ambitions. School spirit is the common thread that unites everyone. Cheering in the stands, participating in campus events or sporting school merchandise creates a sense of belonging. That sense of community can make a difference, especially for students far from home or struggling to find their place on campus.

Homecoming is not an ordinary football game. To some people, it is a celebration of the university’s history and identity. School spirit during homecoming amplifies a sense of unity and pride. When students, alumni and faculty support their team, it creates an intense atmosphere.

In most cases, there are some students who do not care to show school spirit. Not because they do not like the school they attend, it could be because the semester is progressing, students focus more on their grades.

Another reason why some students do not show school spirit can be because of technology. Social media offers endless content, drawing students’ attention away from school-related activities.

One of the most joyful moments to witness during homecoming is the tailgate. The tailgate is where I think school spirit is the most prominent.

The tailgate is full of families, alumni and the student body having fun until it is time to head to the stadium for the big game. It is an amazing feeling seeing people wearing their WKU gear and interacting with one another.

That energy is not just for show. A strong sense of school spirit can boost student morale, increase alumni engagement and even attract students who are interested in attending the university.

To wrap it up, school spirit is a visible display of institutional pride that resonates far beyond the football field. School spirit matters, especially when it is time to rally for the homecoming game.

(Illustration by Olena Makhnovets)