Homecoming traditions

By: Dorian Jenkins

Homecoming is a tradition around high schools and colleges all over the country. It is a great way to kick off the school year with fun events and a great time. Schools have had these events for many years. Samantha Jacobsmeyer, a sophomore at Seckman High School, says, “Homecoming is my favorite part of the school year with everything that occurs during that week, but it is also a very busy time of the year for me with all that I have to do in order to be ready for the fun filled weekend!”

The earliest homecoming events all had similar characteristics, such as: having a football game as the main event, rallies, parades, speeches and dances. The events were intended to unite alumni and students to create a stronger sense of school pride. Homecoming celebrations quickly became popular on college and university campuses and, by the 1920s, homecoming had taken root across the U.S. as an American tradition. Senior Dillon Jenkins, of Seckman High School, says, “Homecoming is a great time with all of the fun events that lead up to the dance and football game. I have a great time every year and I always look forward to it when the time comes.” 

However, the NCAA credits the University of Missouri with the first homecoming event. In 1911, Mizzou’s athletic director invited alumni to “come home” for the annual game against University of Kansas City. The event drew over 10,000 alumni and fans for a weekend of good times.

Now, almost all high school and college varsity football teams hold a homecoming game once a year. Practically all students will attend the event with their classmates. The week leading up to Seckman’s homecoming is also a blast too. Seckman High School senior Tenecia Clemmons says, “I have attended all four homecomings that have been held at the school and they are always a great time and I love being involved with all that goes on!”