Simpson College will be taking on its rival, Central College this Saturday in Buxton Stadium, but before the long-awaited game, Simpson students have been storming the plethora of 2013 Homecoming events.

Rich Ramos, director of student activities, said his favorite tradition involves the community coming together.

“My all-time favorite part would have to be Yell Like Hell because it is one of those times where we get to bring out all of the toys and make things loud,” Ramos said.

Ramos and the Homecoming committee have implemented new events this year to take place of activities that the school can’t host this year.

“I am excited for some of the new things we are doing,” Ramos said. “We had to come up with something new because we can no longer do Float, Sink or Swim so I am excited to see how the Storm Grand Prix/Relay turns out.”

Different athletic teams have been preparing for both Yell Like Hell and the Homecoming game.

Admissions counselor Tricia Davis is also the head cheer and assistant dance coach. Davis, a 2010 graduate, is always excited to see her cheerleaders execute their final routine and for all of Homecoming’s festivities.

“On the cheerleading side, I’m excited to see all of the hard work we put in this season,” Davis said. “I think it’s the most rewarding part of my job. I always remember Yell Like Hell.”

Junior Alex Severn and senior Michael Chia both say Homecoming will be another game where the Storm football team will have to play its hardest. 

“I feel pretty good,” Chia said. “We feel pretty confident with the team we have and if we can play well together it’ll be a good game this weekend.”

Severn said every game matters, and having a good crowd for Homecoming will help.

“Every game in the Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (IIAC) is going to be difficult because everybody is about level skill wise,” Severn said. “Yes, we come into the game confident, but we also know it’s going to be a challenge.” 

Ramos said he hopes the Simpson community can all stay involved.

“I think people need to get out and be a part of Homecoming,” he said. “It is more than just a group or Greek (life) thing. It is a campus community event where people can find a way to get involved.”

It’s a way to keep Simpson’s students, alumni and friends all connected.

“The main goal is to make sure people have a good time that people are excited and walk away from the experience more connected to who we are as a college,” Ramos said.

Freshman Aimee Loats is excited for her first Homecoming experience.

“I’m excited to see everyone come together at the game,” Loats said. “Especially just to see alumni, a bunch of spirit for football and everything at Yell Like Hell like that.”

It’s a time for everyone to cheer on the Simpson Storm.

As an alumni of Central, Ramos said he is excited for Simpson to beat Central this year.