MARSHALL — The Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU) 2024 Homecoming promises to be a spirited and action-packed week, beginning on Monday, October 7, and running through Sunday, October 13. SMSU students, alumni, faculty, and the Marshall community will have numerous events and activities to celebrate the university’s Mustang pride, ranging from traditional pep rallies and tailgating to new and exciting experiences like the Game Day Roundup and The Southwest Celebration.
Kicking off the week, Monday morning will feature a Donut Drop from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. outside the Whipple Gallery, where participants can enjoy fresh, homemade donuts. Later in the afternoon, the Homecoming Pep Rally will bring students and the Marshall community together in the PE Gym, offering a chance to cheer on the Mustangs and get into the Homecoming spirit.
Throughout the week, SMSU will host its annual Day of Service, a tradition launched in 2021 by President Kumara Jayasuriya. Taking place on Wednesday, October 9th, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., the Day of Service invites students, faculty, staff, and alumni to participate in various community projects, including Adopt-A-Highway clean-ups, leaf raking, and memorial park painting. This initiative has grown each year and serves as an important way for Mustangs to give back to the local area.
For sports enthusiasts, Homecoming is packed with opportunities to cheer on the Mustangs. On Friday, October 11, the women’s soccer team will face off against Minnesota State University, Mankato, at 3:00 p.m. in their Breast Cancer Awareness game, while the volleyball team takes on UMary at 6:00 p.m. in the PE Gym. Fans can also enjoy a Swim and Dive intra-team competition at 3:00 p.m. in the Don Palm Natatorium.
On Saturday, October 12, the day begins with the 5K and 10K race at 8:00 a.m., with registration at the Track & Field Complex. The annual Homecoming Parade, which brings together students, alumni, faculty, and community members, will take place downtown at 11:00 a.m. Attendees are encouraged to join the Alumni Association’s hospitality tent, typically set up in front of Memorial Park for a great view and candy.
A special highlight of the weekend is The Southwest Celebration, a new event to honor Alumni Award recipients and showcase campus projects. This event takes place on Friday evening, October 11, and requires pre-registration, with tickets priced at $50. It offers a chance to kick off the weekend by reuniting with fellow Mustangs and celebrating SMSU’s rich traditions.
Saturday’s Homecoming football game against Wayne State begins at 5:00 p.m. at the Schwan Regional Event Center, following a pre-game introduction of Homecoming royalty at 4:45 p.m. The Game Day Roundup, held two hours before the game, will include tailgating, inflatables, food trucks, and live music, giving fans a full Mustang experience. Alumni can stop by the Association’s tailgate tent for yard games and SMSU merchandise.
The week wraps up on Sunday, October 13, with the women’s soccer team taking on the University of Sioux Falls at 1:00 p.m. at the Schwan Regional Event Center.
