Homecoming week has finally arrived, and the buzz at Lakeland University is real. With the boom of students cheering their sports teams all the way and alumni reconnecting with acquaintances of years gone by, the Muskie spirit is vibrant and kicking. This year’s Homecoming theme honors the strong bond of then and now, commemorating Lakeland’s noble tradition of alumni and encouraging current student-athletes to keep adding to that legacy.
Among the year’s highlights is induction into the Hall of Fame, honoring five elite Muskies: Corey Roberson ’03 (football), Matt Martin ’07 (volleyball), MacArthur White ’08 (football), and Joe Julkowski ’09 ’16 MAC (volleyball). They all made their mark on Lakeland athletics history, but Roberson’s story is one of continued commitment and pride in being a Muskie.
Roberson recalled the moment he realized he was being inducted into the Hall of Fame. It clicked when the chair of the Hall of Fame started talking about Roberson’s experience at Lakeland. “It was an emotional thing,” Roberson remembered. The friendships made at Lakeland, mostly with his fraternity brothers, have endured for more than two decades for him. “Who would have thought this guy from Detroit would have an annual trip to the U.P. with college teammates, 22 years later! Lifelong friendships.”
While alumni are gearing up to come back to campus for the weekend, current student-athletes are also spurred by the tradition generated by Homecoming. Senior quarterback Robby Michael explained what it’s like to play on one of the most highly expected weekends of the year. “You can feel the hype all week. Homecoming is not just about the game; it’s about being an extension of everyone who’s come before us who’s worn this jersey.” Having alumni in attendance encourages athletes to play all the harder.
Senior running back Monroe Hobbs felt the same sense of pride and identity. “It’s special when you see old students and players return. It reminds you that it’s not just attending school that makes you a Muskie, but tradition, community and family,” Hobbs said.
Homecoming week is filled with events that include students, faculty and alumni. The week starts off with Monday with Class Color Day, rock-paper-scissors tournament and bowling. Western Day, Casino Night and Karaoke are celebrated on Tuesday. Pajama Day, women’s soccer match, water and paint battle and slip-and-slide kickball are celebrated on Wednesday. Jersey Day, campus tailgate, tug of war during women’s soccer halftime and outdoor movie are celebrated on Thursday.
The abbreviated week continues Friday with Dress Like the 2000s Day, Carnival Night and a Wisconsin fish fry classic. The week winds down gradually Saturday at the game, tailgating parties, food trucks, a bonfire and a student-sponsored party.
As Roberson explained, “Lakeland gave me an opportunity that no one else did. I carry the Lakeland flag wherever I go.” That same pride is still found in today’s Muskies, from students who have come back home to visit or student-athletes who are passing the torch further.
Homecoming at Lakeland isn’t about looking back; it’s about celebrating where we’ve been and celebrating where we’re going next.