Get Involved in APSU Homecoming
Homecoming is more than a week of events to attend — it is a chance to lead, compete, and show your Govs pride. Here is how current students, organizations, and volunteers can take part.
Run for Homecoming Court
Interested in representing Austin Peay as a member of the Homecoming Court? Applications are open to currently enrolled students who demonstrate leadership, campus involvement, school spirit, and a commitment to the Austin Peay community.
To be eligible, students must meet all requirements outlined in the application, including enrollment and conduct standards. Applicants take part in an interview process, and selected candidates serve as ambassadors for Homecoming Week events and traditions.
Full eligibility requirements, deadlines, and selection details are on the application form and the Homecoming Court page.
Applications close September 9 — all qualified students are encouraged to apply.
Compete for the Red Bowl
Show your Govs spirit and compete for the coveted Homecoming Red Bowl. Registered student organizations and groups of students are invited to take part in Austin Peay's annual Homecoming Competition — a week-long tradition of events, contests, and activities that celebrate school pride, creativity, and campus involvement.
Competition opportunities include the Banner Contest, the Smash! Bang! Fight Song Competition, the Homecoming Parade, service projects, spirit events, and more. Organizations may also partner with up to three other student organizations (four organizations total per team) for select competitions.
Awards and cash prizes go to the top three finishers in each competition and to the overall Homecoming Competition champion. Learn what each event involves on the Homecoming Traditions page.
Organizations must register by September 25, 2026.
View the Homecoming Competition Guide for complete rules, event details, and deadlines.
Build a Float or Join the Parade
Student organizations interested in the Homecoming Parade are welcome to enter. Taking part in the overall Homecoming Competition is not required to join the parade, but organizations are encouraged to compete — cash prizes are awarded to the top float and non-float entries.
Organizations may participate by building a float, decorating a vehicle such as a golf cart or car, or joining as a walking entry. The Department of Student Life & Engagement provides reimbursement funding of up to $500 for float entries and $100 for non-float entries.
View the Homecoming Competition Guide for parade guidelines and eligibility requirements.
Volunteer
Faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community members are all invited to help make Homecoming Week a success by volunteering at events throughout the week. Volunteers play an important role in supporting APSU traditions and creating a great experience for the campus community.
To volunteer, contact Dr. Ashley Kautz for more information.