With tailgating, traditions and cheering at The Rock, students at the University of Southern Mississippi are showing their pride as the Golden Eagles prepare to face the Jackson State University Tigers this weekend. Campus is buzzing with school spirit this fall.
Excitement builds early in the week as teams prepare for tailgating and home game activities. The university works closely with student organizations to provide a friendly, safe environment that celebrates Golden Eagle pride.
“Southern Miss football season is about more than just the game,” junior marketing major Jordan Lewis said. “It’s all about the environment, the band, the tailgates and that feeling of belonging.”
Traditions that unite students include the Pride of Mississippi Marching Band, the Eagle Walk and tailgating in Spirit Park.
Athletics officials say game-day excitement is shaped by student participation.
“The life of game day is our students,” USM Athletics Director Jeremy McClain said. “It completely changes the atmosphere of the stadium when the student section is loud and packed. We have an advantage because of it. The economy of Hattiesburg is also boosted by USM football games. On weekends when the Golden Eagles play at home, local shops and restaurants report better sales.”
Eagle Walk and other traditions are encouraged as a way to build connections with the wider community. Orientation leaders and student organizations make sure students feel welcome and understand the cheers.
“I knew very little about Southern Miss when I first arrived,” freshman psychology major Alexis Williams said. “I felt like I belonged after my first football game. I was honored to be here while everyone cheered together.”
The university also promotes school spirit through initiatives like Spirit Fridays, when faculty, staff and students are encouraged to wear black and gold.
Energy continues outside the stadium with student tailgates, pep rallies and performances by the school mascot, Seymour, and the Southern Miss cheerleaders. While football remains the main tradition, school pride influences other areas of campus life, officials said.
Students said they look forward to more wins, more tailgates and more opportunities to show their Golden Eagle passion as the season continues.
“We have a strong tradition here,” Lewis said. “On game day, Southern Miss to the Top isn’t just a saying; it’s how we live it out.”