Samford’s 2025 Homecoming has come and gone with Cade Staley and Kat Acres being named Homecoming King and Queen respectively. On Wednesday Nov. 5, Samford University’s Student Government Association (SGA) held Bulldog Bash where the king and queen announcement took place as well as the reminder of the Homecoming court and class representatives.
“Bulldog Bash is a great Samford tradition where we get to honor and recognize the Homecoming King and Queen,” said SGA President Caleb John. “It is a great way to engage the student body and show our Samford bulldog pride.”
After appearances from Football Head Coach Chris Hatcher, basketball’s new head coach Lennie Acuff and senior players Quincy Crittendon and Jaden Mosley, the homecoming court was announced.
The freshmen class were represented by Nate Carter and Journey Phillips. Elliott Deres and Memphis Gordon were voted to represent the sophomore class. For juniors, it was Will Maxey and Isabelle Maas. The rest of the court was represented by seniors Landon Kight, LE Acuff, Jack Stogner, Rachel Strickland, Edward Jenkins, Jayla Duncan, Luke Chamberlain and Brooke Smith.
Both Staley and Acres expressed appreciation for being voted king and queen.
“I could not be more happy. I am very honored and grateful,” said Staley, “Coming from a freshman who did not want to be at Samford to a senior calling this place home.”
Acres was immediately swarmed by friends after the announcement.
“Samford has seen something in me that I never saw in myself,” said Acres. “To be able to be here and do this is something I would never expect, and it really is the sovereignty of the Lord that brought me here.”
Each member of the court was voted on by the rest of Samford’s student body. Three rounds of voting took place with nominations in round one followed by a second round of voting and selection of class nominees. Finally, the vote for the king and queen took place.
Bulldog Bash this year took place at the new Buck Plaza. Lit up by string lights and DJ lights, the plaza was filled with students taking advantage of the free shirts and food. The Samford Marching Band were in attendance as well. Both the cheerleading squad and dance team were doing their part to keep the energy and excitement high. There were food trucks, music and dancing to end the night.
Homecoming activities did not stop there, however. SGA, Greek Life, the Student Life office and athletics all worked together to put together events for students throughout the entire week.
Ice cream, donut trucks and free shirts took over Ben Brown with opportunities for goat yoga on the quad and a movie night on Buck Plaza made an appearance.
Many organizations teamed up to show their Samford pride by painting wooden boards on Ben Brown. Free Homecoming hats were provided to fans at the home opener for men’s basketball on Friday night. A huge tailgate full of alumni took place before the annual Homecoming game, and the weekend ended with the Women’s Soccer Team competing in the Southern Conference Championship game.
“[Homecoming] is important to build community and culture here at Samford. It carries on a tradition. Shows that support our sports, it’s not only about entertainment, but really a community of supporting each other.” said John.
Sports Editor
