Paityn Tabor ’23
Editor-in-Chief and Sports Editor
Editor’s Note: Paityn Tabor is a member of the women’s soccer team
Homecoming in the Forest is one of the most special aspects of the fall semester. As the leaves begin to change and we prepare for the cold months to come, Homecoming weekend allows our community to enjoy a massive celebration and transition into the colder months on a high note. The festivities remind us that no matter what life throws our way, we have a community of Foresters in our corner.
Last weekend was an especially sentimental time for athletes here at the College. Homecoming weekend is a time where many first-years are able to finally get a sense of what being a Forester truly means when they witness hundreds of alumni make their return to the Forest. On the flip side, senior athletes who have four years under their belts are fully aware of the impact of the weekend, and know that they will soon become the alumni who come back to visit.
“It is bittersweet to think that this will be my last Homecoming as a student athlete,” said women’s volleyball captain, Izzi Visnjevac ’23. “I remember the first time I experienced this as a first-year student and if you would have asked me then, I never would have believed that this current moment would approach as fast as it did. It allows me to have some time to reflect on all of the great memories I have made as a Forester and to cherish the rest of my time here before it is all over.”
This year, football was the only team playing at home throughout the weekend, while most other fall sports teams were traveling to play against a conference opponent. However, these teams still found a way to carry the infectious spirit and positive morale that is associated with this special time with them on the road.
“Even though we [were] playing away, the support that the community generates throughout the week for our games is overwhelming,” explained women’s soccer captain, Maggie Kersting ‘22. “Each year we carry the energy from the week into our game and it definitely helps us come out on top. Hopefully this year will be no different!”
Whether they are competing at home or on the road, many athletes use their gratitude and excitement for the alumni who come back as a tool to sharpen their focus for their matchups over the weekend. Due to this, the alumni and fans who are present at Farwell Field during the football game play a significant role. However, there can also be a bit of an adjustment period during the game, for the athletes to acclimate themselves to the crowd.
“The crowd at the Homecoming game is usually our loudest crowd throughout the season and it usually comes with pros and cons,” explained football captain, Justin Albee ’23. “Usually, a lot of us are excited to see old teammates and can get a bit sidetracked from the game at first. However, the intensity of the crowd really disrupts the other team and after the first couple plays we settle in with the crowd.”
Homecoming weekend allows current athletes to make valuable memories with alumni that will remain with them for years to come and allows the College to continue fostering strong relationships with every generation of Foresters. There are many special moments and events that take place throughout the weekend, but one clear takeaway is this: No matter where life takes us, once a Forester, always a Forester.
