Launching of the Ducks is becoming a favorite Tarleton Homecoming tradition

BY BARRETT JORDAN / Multimedia Journalist

Tarleton State University’s Launching of the Ducks event has remained one of the more popular homecoming traditions among students. This year it was held on Tuesday, Oct. 8 starting at 5:30 p.m.
 

Attendance for the event was booming as a line of students anticipating the launch formed down the entire sidewalk leading up to the pool.

President Dr. James Hurley and his wife Kindall mingled with students talking about what people wrote on their ducks while unofficial mascot Oscar P celebrated with the students.

There were several tents positioned where students could collect their duck, photo opportunities with props set up throughout the waiting area and exciting music was playing for the duration of the event.

Although it’s been around for a bit of time now, the Launching of the Ducks happens to be one of the newer traditions introduced to homecoming week.

Participating students are given their own yellow rubber duck. On it, they write their own unique goals and aspirations whether that be in the near or distant future.

After writing and designing their duck, students then make their way to the Reflecting Pool by the Nursing Building and launch them simultaneously with the others in their group. The action of launching the ducks is symbolic of putting the written goals into effect.

Residential leaders assisted in putting together the Launching of the Ducks. They gathered hours before to set up tents, props and more to help make the event a success.

James Golla, a junior residential leader at Tarleton elaborated on his experience working with others he’s formed bonds with through housing.

“We have a really great team under residence life. My team is fantastic when it comes to events like this and we enjoy working the same times together which brings me even more incentive to serve other students with them,” Golla said.

Golla appreciates the value of community that Tarleton provides through homecoming activities like the Launching of the Ducks. 

“I like the community aspect of it. I think having a good community and supporting students is always a good thing,” Golla said. “It’s really well run and I like the home feel of it, it’s a great tradition.”

This event is really like no other. It can be very memorable because it’s tailored to you as an individual. 
Yes, it’s fun to decorate your duck and throw it into a pool with your friends. It also allows you to reflect on what you have accomplished and what you want to look forward to.

The Launching of the Ducks captures Tarleton’s homecoming week quite exceptionally. It will continue to be a popular homecoming tradition among students for years to come.