20A THE UNIVERSITY DAILY KANSAN
HOMECOMING
THURSDAY,OCTOBER 7,2004
Themes reflect changes in times, life at University
BY KIM CARMICHAEL
correspondent@kansan.com
KANSAN CORRESPONDENT
According to the 46th Annual Catalog of the University of Kansas, in 1912 there were 2,546 students enrolled at the University, compared to 27,463 students enrolled today.
During "Hawktoberfest, Home is where the Hawk is," this year's homecoming theme, spirit at the University of Kansas will be high. The tradition of homecoming stretches back 92 years. For nearly a century, students have been celebrating homecoming, a week of festivities before a football game against the University's biggest rivals. Times, fashions and ideas have changed over the years but homecoming still has a big impact on KU students.
On the first night of homecoming, KU students, faculty, staff and alumni gathered around a large bonfire in front of Old Fraser Hall. On the top of the bonfire they laid a large wooden tiger to symbolize the hope of victory over the University of Missouri in the football game that was to be played the next day. The University of Kansas football team had started the season with excellent prospects. The next day, a crowd of 10,000 cheered on the Jayhawks as they defeated Missouri 12-3. Other festivities included a dance following the football game — revelers celebrated late into the night. The first homecoming was such a huge success and so important to people that the event became a celebration that lasted all weekend.
The first homecoming was in November 1912. This was the year women were given the right to vote, the Titanic sank, and Woodrow Wilson became president.
There was no sponsorship, the Memorial stadium was yet to be built however, over that weekend a tradition still celebrated today was born.
Over the many years of homecoming there have been various themes. Fifty years ago, Jayhawks were anticipating a victory over Nebraska. The theme for the
The first homecoming was in November 1912. This was the year women were given the right to vote, the Titanic sank, and Woodrow Wilson became president. According to the 46th Annual Catalog of the University of Kansas, in 1912 there were 2,546 students enrolled at the University, compared to 27,463 students enrolled today.
1954 homecoming was "Show Your Spirit." The Women's Pep Organization distributed 5,000 special badges urging, "Beat Nebraska."
Forty years ago, students were preparing for "The Greatest Show on Earth," the theme for the 1964 homecoming celebrations. A sellout - crowd of 45,000 packed in to Allen Fieldhouse to enjoy the Kansas v. Nebraska game.
Similar to this year's homecoming theme, "Hawktoberfest, Home is where the Hawk is," Jayhawks of 1984 celebrated with a theme of "Oktoberfest."
The students of 1984 partied at a pregame picnic and ate "Oktoberfest" hotdogs. This homecoming picnic was followed by the Jayhawks v. Oklahoma game.
Like the very first homecoming, gatherers danced late into the night, this time to the sounds of a swing band.
The party continued, and 1994 saw "The Spirits Come Alive" at homecoming. The University of Kansas marching band led floats down Jayhawk Boulevard to Wescoe Beach.
From the very first homecoming in 1912 to this year, the Jayhawk has presided loyally over the celebrations. The only question is, what do Jayhawks have to look forward to in the future?
Kansan file photo
Part of Baby Jay's job is greeting fans during games.
The students behind the mascot Being a Jayhawk is more than a job, it's an experience of love
BY CATHERINE WILCOX
correspondent@kansan.com
KANSAAN CORRESPONDENT
It is ninety-five degrees and the sun is beating down onto Memorial Stadium. The football team scores the first touchdown of the game and the student section goes crazy. In front of the student section parades the Jayhawk mascot.
In front of the student section parade are players. The Jayhawk is a symbol known all over the United States.
States.
"I have always been a KU fan and have wanted to be Big Jay since I knew how to say 'Jayhawk,'" said Tim Welch, Salina sophomore.
Being Baby Jay and Big Jay can sometimes become a challenge for those on the inside. The costumes rotate between nine people. While Baby Jay sees through the eyes, Big Jay sees through the mouth.
"It is hot and horrible on the inside. People always are pulling and tugging, but yet it is awesome to be a Jayhawk. About a fair balance,"said Chris Veit, Overland Park senior and also a Big Jay.
and also a big jaywah. Being a Jayhawk can also be time consuming. The mascots typically practice three hours a week and are required to attend games of all athletic teams at least once, travel
away to football games and basketball tournaments as well as weddings, birthdays and various events.
"You have to love what you do because it can be a big commitment," said Jessica Virtue, Lawrence senior and a Baby Jay.
Before each game, there are traditions that the mascots help carry out: the circle run at basketball games and the fight song, rock chalk chant and Alma Mater. Sometimes when there is a great basketball play or touchdown, the mascots are seen crowd surfing.
"Fans will try to get you to crowd surf by picking us up Luckily we have body guard to help with this." said sophomore Elaine Jardon from Overland Park, a Baby Jay. But sometimes being a mascot can have it's downs when other schools are disrespectful.
schools are disappointed.
"The first game I did in 2003, I got jacked by the Jackson State Gamecock. It was cool though because as some fans may remember, I "beaked" him real good," said Adam Reese, Big Jay Manhattan junior.
For those behind the uniform, it is of importance to carry out the legacy of the Jayhawk mascot. "It is an honor that makes me feel proud to be a KU student. I really feel like I bleed crimson and blue. I have never been so proud in my life," said Jesse Plosse, Leawood junior and a proud Big Jay.
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