Homecoming week at Troy University brings with it a parade, tailgating and football game, but this year is a little different.

All of the aforementioned activities will take place, but the Trojan Stampede Rodeo is also in town this weekend.

The Stampeded is the only home event of the season for the Troy University Rodeo team, and coach Josh Simmons said the team is anxious about being part of the big weekend.

“We are definitely excited,” said Simmons. “We only get to do this at home once a year. We like having the crowd behind us and like to put on a good show for the hometown folks.”

The home event is also a welcome site for the team, who spends the majority of its season on the road.

“This weekend the team doesn’t have to worry about the hassle of travel,” said Simmons. “We have a home field advantage, just like football or baseball. We know how the cattle will react in the arena, and how to control it.”

This year the team celebrates 10 years in existence, and the stampede also marks the 10th installment of the event. As a part of the weekend’s activities, all rodeo alumni are welcomed back and will celebrate with events throughout the weekend.

Any K-12 student who wears their school shirt or colors will receive free admission Thursday night. The opening ceremony will feature a 4-H Riding Club as well as School Board Member Chris Wilkes delivering the invocation. The Brundidge High School ROTC will present the colors and Melanie Sims, a senior at Troy and 2009 graduate of Charles Henderson, will deliver the opening National Anthem.

Friday night will welcome some of Troy’s international students to carry their home flags during the grand entry while the National Anthem will be delivered by Troy University student Raliff Jordan. All students who attend the rodeo on Friday night can register for a $500 book scholarship donated by the Alumni Association – just stop by the welcome tent and register for the drawing.

Saturday will feature the playing of the National Anthem by Troy Police Department Detective Michael O’Hara, as well as the invocation by local pastor Rick Hayes. All law enforcement, fire and rescue personnel, and military – active and retired – will be recognized.

Action is slated to begin each night at 7 p.m. with gates opening at 6. Advanced tickets are $5 for children and $8 for adults and can be purchased early by calling 1-800-414-5756. Tickets at the gate will be $7 for children and $10 for adults.