The Pepperdine University Spirit Cup Competition has taken an early fall start.
The Spirit Cup traditionally corresponds with Homecoming. However with plans to move Homecoming to the fall next year moving the 2009 Spirit Cup is a test.
“It’s kind of easing the transition said Kapua Kauhane, Pepperdine student activities coordinator and a 2008 alumna.
Michael Sprague, manager of homecoming and reunions, said an annual fall Homecoming — beginning with fall 2010 — will become a staple” of the fall semester.
“We’re looking at a solution to move it to the fall so that we can … advertise it the year before and really get some excitement going for it he said.
He added that scheduling conflicts arose in the spring. Groups in the past have really struggled in the spring with [Songfest] and the spirit cup being really right on top of each other Sprague said.
However, some students said the switch to fall semester has given way to its own scheduling conflicts.
For example, many of the athletes who sometimes participate in the competition are in season, said senior Courtney Price, a Pepperdine soccer player. It’s especially hard trying to find time to get stuff together. For us in particular it’s much more doable in the spring.”
Despite the changes students are becoming deeply involved in one of Pepperdine’s best opportunities to show school spirit.
This year Waves are showing spirit with a Pepperdine Goes the Hollywood theme.
“Basically it’s an opportunity for student groups and organizations to participate in showcasing their spirit.” Kauhane said.
Sororities fraternities athletes faculty staff alumni and other organizations are participating. Their groups call themselves Kings of Pop N’synchables The Sandlot Pi Tri Psi Phi and TPS Reports.