Need some homecoming ideas

[knight_shadow]

Hey GC -

I'm on the homecoming planning committee at my university (UTexas - Arlington .. no football team = homecoming is in mid-February for basketball season). We've been discussing different types of freebies to give out at the game to help with promoting school spirit. We can't have noise makers so we're being forced to think of new ideas quickly.

In our last meeting, we came up with some ideas for things to give away:

- spirit armbands (i.e. Lance Armstrong armband)
- penants
- bandannas
- spirit towels
- a plush of our mascot
- the foam "#1" hands
- spirit flags

Last year, we had the spirit flags and they went over pretty well. But, we'd like to try something a little bit different so that the novelty isn't overused.

Does anyone know of any nice freebies that can be used during the game that college students would actually enjoy?

Thanks!

[norcalchick]

There are mini pom pons or shakers. I don't know of a link of a pic though.

[jess_pom]

My high school throws out mini basketballs periodically throughout the game, usually the cheerleaders do that. The balls are sponored by a local business to offset costs. They're a big hit!

[PSK480]

College students are always up for free clothing. I mean look at any college football or basketball game, prime example: Pitt with the "Oakland Zoo" shirts, like Jess said go around and get sponsors in the community and some of the cost would be offset, maybe even ask for some student activities funding.

[knight_shadow]

Thanks guys, these are some great ideas!

Anyone have any more?

[adpiucf]

You could also get some kind of oversized button for people to wear during the week. You can have a "Spirit Patrol" out to award prizes to people wearing their buttons and an entry into a grand prize drawing that will happen at halftime. You'll get everyone wearing the buttons on campus and cause a big stir.

Submit a press release about the button campaign to the local and town newspapers to get additional PR.

Post HC, students will keep their buttons and stick them on corkboards and bulletin boards as a fun memory of the week.

ETA: Get marketing partners to sponsor your freebies-- they provide a financial sponsorship, donate food, freebies, etc. (IE: The campus bookstore can donate a book scholarship, the neighborhood Dominoes' throws a pizza party in the dorms, the Apple store gives you an IPOD as a giveaway). Stick their logo on the freebies and include them on any marketing materials like fliers, banners and ads.