Action-Packed Weekend On Tap for Mercer’s Homecoming 2011, Nov. 11-12

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MACON — The tradition of a fall Homecoming at Mercer University rolls into its fourth year featuring an even more action-packed lineup for Homecoming 2011, Nov. 11-12. Thousands of Mercerians will come back to campus to celebrate with current students in a two-day series of events, culminating in a new All Class Party at the Macon Centerplex beginning at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 12, featuring the smooth sounds of Yacht Rock Schooner.

The weekend will also include a number of athletic events, including a groundbreaking ceremony for Mercer’s new football and lacrosse complex at 2 p.m. Friday on the lower field between the tennis complex and the University Center. The weekend features two basketball games in the University Center Arena, with the Mercer’s women’s game against Auburn University on Friday at 7 p.m. and the Mercer men’s game on Saturday against Emory University at 3 p.m.

Following the women’s basketball game Friday night, events move outside to Bear Hill, the lot across from the Hilton Garden Inn, where there will be a student skit competition at 9 p.m. At 9:30, the festivities kick into high gear with the traditional bonfire and pep rally – featuring Mercer’s pep band, cheerleaders and a pep talk by men’s head coach Bob Hoffman – and concluding with a dazzling fireworks display.

Saturday is packed with events, beginning with a 5K Road Run at 8 a.m. There will also be a Charity Orange Pancake Breakfast on Porter Patch at 8:30 a.m. to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Following the breakfast, alumni will also take part in campus tours, reunions and fraternity, sorority, college and school receptions and open houses. Tailgating for the Emory game gets under way at 12:30 p.m. on the University Center patio, including lunch, face-painting, student t-shirt distribution, t-shirt sales and orange hair-spraying. Following these events, everyone will head to the UC Arena for the 3 p.m. tip off against Emory.

The evening’s festivities conclude with the first-ever All Class Party featuring the Yacht Rock Schooner, beginning at 6 p.m. at the Macon Centerplex. For a full schedule and more information on individual events, please visit the Homecoming Web Page, www.mercer.edu/homecoming.

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