Bengal Pride in full swing: Homecoming energizes ISU athletics

POCATELLO — Orange and black flood Holt Arena every October, and the roar of the crowd is impossible to ignore. Homecoming at Idaho State University is more than a week of tradition — it’s a surge of energy that drives Bengals on and off the field.

The weeklong celebration brings together students, alumni, faculty, staff and the Pocatello community. Events include a parade, bonfire, football game and alumni awards ceremony, each designed to showcase school pride and connect generations of Bengals. The combination of campus and community events creates a week of celebration unlike any other during the academic year.

Football is the centerpiece of Homecoming. Thousands pack the stands, cheering on the team as students and alumni wave banners and wear school colors. The energy of the crowd provides an extra push for athletes, creating an atmosphere unlike any other week of the season.

The spirit extends beyond football to all athletic programs. Volleyball, soccer and cross-country see higher attendance and more engagement during Homecoming week. Pep rallies and performances from the marching band, cheer squad and Bengal Dancers amplify excitement across campus. These events highlight the connection between athletics and the wider campus community, giving students, alumni and faculty multiple opportunities to participate in the celebrations.

Family and tradition play a central role in the week’s significance.

“A lot of teammates have their families at homecoming, so it’s amazing to see them celebrate with the families,” said ISU running back Dason Brooks.

Alumni returning to campus reinforce the connection between past and present students. Their presence at games, events and the parade emphasizes the multigenerational nature of Homecoming and the legacy that current athletes are part of. The week provides a rare opportunity for alumni to reconnect with former teammates, friends and faculty, while also celebrating the accomplishments of current students and athletic teams.

Outside the arena, the celebration spills into downtown Pocatello. The Homecoming parade winds through city streets, featuring student organizations, community groups and the ISU Marching Band. Local businesses decorate in orange and black and host specials for returning alumni and visitors. The traditional bonfire adds a symbolic spark to kick off game day and unites students, athletes and the community in Bengal pride.

Planning Homecoming requires coordination between ISU Athletics, the Office of Alumni Relations and student leadership groups. Weeks of preparation go into logistics, scheduling, safety measures and programming to ensure the week runs smoothly. The effort guarantees meaningful experiences for athletes, students and fans while reflecting the university’s values of pride, tradition and community.

The week’s excitement also impacts student life. Spirit days, tailgating, campus competitions and social gatherings create a vibrant atmosphere. For many students, Homecoming represents their introduction to Idaho State’s sports culture — a culture built on school pride, teamwork and community connection. The events provide opportunities for students to engage with athletics outside the classroom, supporting teams and building school spirit.

From the parade to the packed arena, the energy fuels the teams and inspires the crowd.

“You got to always win on homecoming,” said safety Jayden Bell, a Pocatello native and Highland High School alum.