Students, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends, past and present, of the University of West Georgia gathered for a homecoming weekend everyone could enjoy. This year’s theme, West Georgia: Through the Decades, celebrated the university’s rich history with more than 15 events.
The week started with the Homecoming kick-off dinner, sponsored by the UWG Student Activities Council, that featured fun, food, and festivities for nearly 200 students. Each attendee received a UWG t-shirt and had the opportunity to win various prizes while engaging in activities. From a homecoming banner contest to campus tours, the momentum continued to rise as fans energized for Saturday’s big game. Even Fox Sports highlighted the best play of the afternoon when UWG returned a blocked punt for a touchdown in the first six minutes of the game. In case you missed it, check it out here.
Events leading up to the game included:
Wolves Capture the Square
The Wolves captured the AMP at Adamson Square with a pep rally filled with excitement and the university’s largest celebration for Homecoming Day for students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the community. Dr. Marrero and Coach Will Hall spoke to amp the excitement of the pep rally followed by the football team seniors, cheerleaders, and “The Sound that Lights the South” UWG marching band. The Velcro Pygmies, who were back by popular demand, wrapped up the celebration.
President 5K Run
Saturday began with a wet but joy filled atmosphere at the Second Annual 5K run titled, “Connecting Campus to Community.” The run benefitted the Carrollton Greenbelt on campus. Students, alumni, and members of the community joined UWG President Dr. Kyle Marrero.
Tyler Woodard was awarded first place at Wolf Plaza immediately following the race.
Homecoming Parade
Students, alumni, and fans came out for the annual homecoming parade. Enthusiasm spread as the UWG cheerleaders and “The Sound That Lights the South” marching band paraded down campus. Floats invoked cheers in the crowd, and homecoming representatives were paraded through the town before the game.
Homecoming Tailgate and Game
Fans persevered through the rain to support UWG with food and music for some pre-game enjoyment. Organizations, students, and alums fired up grills and reconnected for hours as the Wolves prepared to take on Clark Atlanta University in its fourth game of the season. The alumni association provided a complimentary meal, while the WOLF Internet Radio broadcasted live from the Alumni Tailgate Zone as a part of the Campus Radio Reunion.
The rain continued through game time, but so did the cheering on of the Wolves when tailgating fun turned to game fun. The Wolves drove home another win against Clark Atlanta with a score of 56-0 at University Stadium on Saturday afternoon. UWG continues to maintain its ranking of second in the nation by the American Football Coaches Association. Oh, and how about that punt?
At halftime, UWG students Brandon Reece and Annie Broome were announced homecoming king and queen.
Second Annual Presidential Scholarship Gala
UWG President Dr. Kyle Marrero and his wife Dr. Jane Marrero arrived in ‘20s attire, along with other UWG supporters at the Second Annual Presidential Scholarship Gala. The event supports need-based scholarships that are designed to help alleviate some of the financial pressure of college costs.
Attendees heard from 17 students who thanked donors for supporting their education and shared how the scholarships have positively impacted their UWG experience. The event was themed around 1920’s-era fashion, providing attendees dinner, live music, and dancing.
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