By Ellie Breitenstein
BOILING SPRINGS, N.C. — Gardner-Webb University welcomed alumni, students, families, faculty and friends back to campus Nov. 6-8 for its annual homecoming celebration. The weekend was filled with activities, athletic events, reunions and opportunities to reconnect, bringing together Bulldogs from across generations to celebrate the traditions and community that make Gardner-Webb special.
This year’s Gardner-Webb Homecoming theme, “Our Roots Run Deep. Our Future Runs Bold,” highlighted the university’s rich history while looking ahead to the future. Throughout the weekend, students, alumni and visitors had the opportunity to celebrate their Bulldog pride and make new memories on campus.
The festivities began Friday with Bo’s Battle ‘Que competition and the Gardner-Webb Athletics Hall of Fame Gala. During the gala, three former Runnin’ Bulldogs were recognized for their contributions to Gardner-Webb athletics: Kaylee Wacaster of softball; Dobson Collins of football and track and field; and Collin Thacker of baseball.
Saturday brought the biggest homecoming celebrations to campus. Students, alumni and families gathered for the Dawg Walk, tailgating, food and the annual Homecoming Parade. The parade featured the Marching Bulldogs, Homecoming Court, student organizations, and Bo the Bulldog—bringing excitement and school spirit throughout campus.
The highlight of Saturday was the homecoming football game at Ernest W. Spangler Stadium, where Gardner-Webb faced Lindenwood University. The Runnin’ Bulldogs fought hard throughout the afternoon but ultimately fell to Lindenwood 34-21. Quarterback Cole Pennington returned from injury and threw three touchdown passes, while Tre Yanez led the defense with a career-high 19 tackles.
The athletic celebrations continued Saturday evening as the Gardner-Webb volleyball team took on High Point University in Paul Porter Arena. Despite winning the opening set, the Runnin’ Bulldogs fell to High Point 3-1. Emma Kerwin led Gardner-Webb with 11 kills, while Milla Lugo added nine kills and six blocks.
Homecoming weekend continued into Sunday with Worship at the Webb in Dover Memorial Chapel, giving alumni, students and guests an opportunity to gather for worship and fellowship. The weekend also featured an exciting accomplishment for Gardner-Webb men’s soccer. The Runnin’ Bulldogs defeated USC Upstate 3-0 in the Big South Conference semifinals at Greene-Harbison Stadium, earning a spot in the conference championship game for the third consecutive season.
Beyond the athletic competitions and scheduled activities, homecoming provided an opportunity for former and current students to reconnect, share memories, and celebrate their connection to Gardner-Webb. Class reunions welcomed back alumni from the classes of 1981 and 2016, while students and families had the opportunity to experience the traditions and community that make the university unique.
As another homecoming weekend ended, Gardner-Webb once again demonstrated that homecoming is about more than just a football game or a weekend of activities. It is about celebrating the university’s history, creating lasting memories, and bringing the Bulldog family together. Whether returning as an alumnus or making new memories as a current student, homecoming serves as a reminder that no matter how much time passes, there will always be a place to call home at Gardner-Webb.
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