Jaguar pride is strong at South Alabama as the community rallies behind the football team before their Homecoming game. In addition to Parent’s Weekend and an early Homecoming, the University continues to celebrate its 60th anniversary.

There seemed to be something going on every day to engage students and get them excited about the weekend to come. The homecoming week staples like Junk the Jungle, Jaguar Productions’ Fun Fest, and the National Pan-Hellenic Council Step Show were still fan-favorites. 

On Thursday, Sept. 21, Jaguar Productions hosted a new event, Miss Pawla’s Animal Kingdom Block Party. This marked the grand opening of Miss Pawla’s Grill downstairs in the Fresh Food Company. There was an official ribbon cutting, as well as live music and inflatables to keep everyone entertained.

Friday’s festivities wrapped with the annual pep rally and bonfire at the intramural fields. Students, staff, and fans of all ages were invited to enjoy a concert from the Cooper Trent band, an antique car show, and fireworks.

Homecoming Committee Chair Kyla Carpenter expressed her gratitude and excitement from the week.

“I’m really thankful for all of the help that I had this week, and I’m super grateful for all the turnout and everyone who came to support,” Carpenter said.  “As my second year as homecoming chair, I think this year went ten times better than last year. I’m super excited to see where the university goes after this.”

Dr. Andi Kent, Provost and Executive Vice President of the University, recalled the words of the Jaguars’ head coach in her address to the crowd.

“[Coach Kane] said our city is behind us. Our fans are behind us. Our alum are behind us,” Kent said.

With hundreds of Jaguars fans spread across the intramural field, it was easy to see that her words rang true. Her final remarks for the evening expertly built on the “Our City” mantra.

“There are amazing things going on in Mobile right now, and we see it. We see it on this beautiful campus every single day,” Kent said.

“You’ve heard me say it before – this place is special.”