Students Plan Homecoming Events With Rockets Flashback Theme
As The University of Toledo celebrates its sesquicentennial, the 2022 Homecoming theme of “Rockets Flashback” pays homage to 150 years of history during a week of festivities beginning Sept. 26.
“Homecoming is The University of Toledo’s longest-standing tradition and is a representation of Rockets of the past, present and future,” said Sammy Spann, vice president of student affairs and dean of students. “It gives me great pride to be a part of it. I love our UToledo students and how they continue the traditions that are so important to UToledo and its history.
“Homecoming is one of my favorite times of the year. It’s such a great tradition,” he added. “I love all the events surrounding Homecoming – the pep rally, parade, bonfire, concerts, king and queen contest and the football game. These events bring our students, faculty, staff and alumni together with the community. Our students work really hard to make it great every year.”
The main event – the Toledo Rockets’ fifth football game of the season, against the Central Michigan University Chippewas – kicks off at 3:30 p.m. Oct. 1 in the Glass Bowl.
“We’re proud to celebrate 150 years of life-changing education at UToledo and Homecoming is only the start,” said President Gregory Postel. “In the coming months, we’ll continue to honor this tremendous milestone with Rockets here in northwest Ohio and around the world.”
The student Homecoming Committee has planned a week of activities that recognize longstanding traditions and bring Rockets back to campus to create new memories. The events below are open to alumni and friends:
- Tuesday, Sept. 27, Eat the Streets, 11 a.m., Centennial Mall. Lunch will be available from a variety of food trucks, as well as a pep rally, tie-dyed T-shirts and music.
- Thursday, Sept. 29, Movie Night, 7 p.m., University Hall lawn. The first movie is a family-friendly pick and the second movie is an action-packed film. Bring your blankets and get ready to kick off the weekend.
- Friday, Sept. 30, Women’s Volleyball Game, 6 p.m., Savage Arena. Join UToledo Athletics and the Homecoming Committee for some pizza and decorate signs to get ready for the Homecoming football game.
- Friday, Sept. 30, Homecoming Gala, 5:30 p.m., Lancelot Thompson Student Union Auditorium. The Alumni Association will present this year’s Gold T, Daniel Saevig Blue T and Edward H. Schmidt Young Alum Awards. Distinguished alumni from each college will also be recognized. Tickets are $35 per person, $17 for children. For more information or to make a reservation, contact the UToledo Office of Alumni Engagement at 419.530.2586 or visit the Association’s website.
- Saturday, Oct. 1, Edward C. and Helen G. Schmakel Homecoming Parade, 10 a.m. The parade is sponsored by Blue Key National Honor Society. The route will begin at West Bancroft Street and Campus Road and go east to Cheltenham Road to Christie Street to Middlesex Drive and back to West Bancroft Street; and Pregame Party, noon – 3:30 p.m., William and Carol Koester Alumni Pavilion. Stop by for a free hot dog, chips and non-alcoholic beverages. There will be a cash bar for those 21 and older with proper ID.
- UToledo Rockets vs. Central Michigan University Chippewas football game, 3:30 p.m., attendance is free for students. Faculty, alumni and other fans can purchase tickets here. Homecoming Parade float winners will be announced, along with an iconic halftime performance from the Rocket Marching Band.
