Southern Miss prepares for Homecoming weekend

(The following is a press release from the University of Southern Mississippi. The Homecoming game, where Southern Miss will host Texas-El Paso, can be seen October 14th at 6 p.m. on This TV, WHPM channel 23.2.)

Homecoming is a rich part of the tradition and history of Southern Miss and an exciting time for alumni coming back to campus. The Southern Miss Department of Athletics is unveiling several promotions for Saturday's Homecoming football game versus UTEP at 6 p.m. The offers extend to fans of all ages and serve many interests. Former Golden Eagle athletic letterwinners can get up to two complimentary tickets as part of the Homecoming festivities. Those looking to redeem the offer can do so by contacting Eric Beatty at eric.beatty@usm.edu or 601-266-6629. Saturday also serves as the annual Breast Cancer Awareness game, and survivors have the opportunity to receive two tickets to the game, courtesy of Forrest General Hospital and the Cancer Center. Southern Miss coaches and staff will wear pink hats on the sideline as well. Tickets can be obtained by contacting Ellen Hollbrook at 601-288-1700. The annual cheer clinic returns from 1-3 p.m. inside the Payne Center on Saturday. It is open for children as old as eighth grade, and fans can register in advance or at the front table beginning at 12 p.m. It is $35 to attend but $45 to include a game ticket in the bundle. Participants can walk with the Southern Miss cheerleaders in Eagle Walk, perform on the field pregame, and so much more. More information on benefits and registration can be found here. Another opportunity for children is taking part in Youth Sports Day. This group ticket option comes with a discount, and kids can join their friends or teammates in experiencing a pregame football, track and field, soccer, baseball and softball clinic before getting to walk onto the football field pregame. Those interested in the offer can contact Chris Adams at 601-266-6571 or christopher.l.adams@eagles.usm.edu. Southern Miss is 58-22 all-time in Homecoming games and coming off a 31-29 win at previously-unbeaten UTSA on Saturday. The grand marshal for Saturday's Homecoming is former Golden Eagle and NFL star Adalius Thomas, and the 2017 king and queen will be recognized at halftime.