Homecoming 2025 brings campus spirit to Texas State

By Courtney Buck

Blog Content Contributor

SAN MARCOS – Texas State University’s Homecoming 2025 brought together students, alumni, and campus organizations for a week of events celebrating school spirit and tradition. The week leading up to the homecoming football game featured various activities designed to promote Bobcat pride.

Held Oct. 6-11, the weeklong celebration was coordinated by Texas State’s Student Involvement and Engagement office. Events included the Soapbox Derby, Boko’s Glow Run, and Boko’s Homecoming Bash.

According to the Student Involvement and Engagement website, “The Soap Box Derby, a cherished Homecoming tradition at Texas State since 1967, remains a favorite among students and alumni. At this event, student groups will engage in boxcar races, vying for the prestigious Homecoming Spirit Stick and coveted points towards the President’s Cup.”

Pike and Zeta Tau Alpha were crowned winners of this year’s derby.

The annual Boko’s Glow Run guided students on a two-mile nighttime route across campus, illuminated by glow-in-the-dark accessories and accompanied by high-energy music. Boko’s Homecoming Bash, held Oct. 8, featured attractions, games, music, and food, bringing the Texas State community together for an evening of celebration.

In addition to the official events, individual student experiences contributed to the week’s atmosphere. Students involved in or attending events shared their perspectives on Homecoming.

Pre-nursing student Taya Keating reflected on the community impact of Homecoming at Texas State.

“TXST Homecoming is important for the community as it unites everybody under one celebration,” said Keating. “We’re celebrating everybody’s hard work and having fun while doing it.”

“My favorite part was the spirit parade where we got to see the TXST marching band and cheerleaders,” said Keating. “I also loved Boko’s Homecoming Bash, it was just fun and games and music.”

The Texas State Strutters were among the most visible performers during Homecoming week, taking the field with a routine that incorporated tradition and school spirit.

Viviana Juarez, a first-year member of the Strutters, spoke about her experience during the annual homecoming week.

“A lot of Strutter alums come and watch us for Homecoming,” said Juarez. “It’s a special tradition for us to use a prop during the performance, and a lot of parents come too.”

The large stars used as props during the performance are a homecoming-exclusive tradition for the Strutters. She added that the atmosphere during the game was energetic.

“Our excitement and adrenaline takes over – the vibes are high and it’s a lot more exciting when there’s so many people at the game to watch the performance,” said Juarez. “It’s inspiring and fun.”

Despite Texas State’s 41-48 loss to Troy University, Juarez said her director leaves the Strutters with an inspiring message: “Unfortunately we didn’t win our homecoming game but we always win during halftime.”

Homecoming 2025 concluded with strong student participation and continued support from alumni and campus organizations. The week’s events reflected Texas State University’s commitment to tradition, community engagement, and school spirit.