BY CAROLYN LISBOA
Staff Reporter
Sacred Heart University kicked its Homecoming Weekend festivities into full gear with its homecoming football game on Saturday, Sept. 30.
The Pioneers played against the Central Connecticut Blue Devils in a game that resulted in a 26 – 15 loss.
Despite the cool weather, large crowds of students, alumni and their families dressed head-to-toe in SHU apparel filled the bleachers on the campus field, showing the outstanding school spirit demonstrated by the Pioneer community.
Mabelin Luzon, a graduate of the Class of 2017, appeared to be having a blast at the game as she went on to say, “I’m having so much fun being here…I really missed everyone. It’s also pretty nice to be able to come to a game on a weekend without having to worry about a ton of homework or a paper being due on Monday. I don’t miss that for sure.”
The Sacred Heart varsity cheerleading team put on a spectacular half-time show in cooperation with members of the Performing Arts program.
The act was accompanied by a Bruno Mars tribute led by the University Pep and Marching Band.
In addition to alumni making their return to campus, current students were equally involved in the action as well. Senior Cory Robinson spoke of the weekend, saying “Homecoming is one of those times which shows what being a Pioneer is all about. Getting to see old Pioneers come home is one of the best feelings in the world. As a senior, my final days at SHU are extremely bittersweet, yet I know that when I do have to take the stage at graduation I will have a place and a family to return home to once again.”
The eventful weekend carried forward through Sunday morning as Sacred Heart held its Alumni Remembrance Mass to honor the deceased members of the Pioneer community.
The service, which included a heartfelt tribute ceremony, was attended by current students, faculty members and alumni who poured into the pews of the Chapel of the Holy Spirit to commemorate deceased members, showcasing true Pioneer spirit.
The entire weekend, including an exciting, high-energy football game and a solemn, spirit-filled service, was a testament to the fact that Sacred Heart University has been and will continue to be a home to all who have been a part of it.
“I had such a great time this weekend. Since I graduated in May, it was so wonderful to come back and see everyone. Even though we might not have seen each other in months, our school spirit is still the same. I’m now so excited for next year,” said Elizabeth Calianese, a graduate of the Class of 2017.
