On Saturday, October 13, a record number of Framingham State College alumni gathered with students, families, staff and friends to enjoy a crisp, autumn day and the annual Homecoming program.  This year the schedule was packed with events for all ages and included athletic games, activities run by student clubs and organizations as well as a pre-game brunch and post-game tailgate barbeque.  This year many alums came with Ram pride, dressed in Framingham State College apparel, and they cheered on the teams along the fence, through the tent and up in the stands, which were at capacity. 

Athletics began the momentum for the day, kicking-off with the Men’s Soccer Game, who defeated Salem State, 4-0.  The football team followed in the afternoon, fought hard, but fell to the Westfield Owls in the fourth quarter, 29-36.  In addition, the hockey team brought back some alumni to play against some of the current team members and two games were held at Loring Arena. 

Throughout the day, alumni enjoyed free food and entertainment, including live jazz music during brunch and music played by disc-jockeys from WDJM, the College radio station, during the post-game tailgate barbeque.   Sixteen student clubs and organizations also provided activities for those who attended and 6-pack coolers were given to the first 900 people through the gate.

This year the football team also celebrated its’ 35^th anniversary, which was recognized during an evening reception held in the Athletics Center.  Football alumni and current football players, along with families and former coaches attended to reminisce and celebrate its’ history and commitment to the program today.  Margaret Guardiani ’77 was the master of ceremonies and the speakers included Robert Richards, Esq., ’83, Board of Trustees member and former football player, Dr. Timothy J. Flanagan, President, Steven Rider, first football coach at Framingham State College, and Tom Kelley, Director of Athletics and current football coach.   

Overall, alumni were able to catch-up with one another on a beautiful fall day and were impressed with Homecoming program.  “The school has really come a long way and it feels great to be back on campus to see some of my old friends,” commented Cristhian Linan ‘03.  Even among the students, seniors were commenting that they were looking forward to coming back for Homecoming as alums and alumni were already planning to bring back old friends and classmates to campus for Homecoming 2008. 

We hope to see you here next fall!