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The Official 2013 Homecoming Information Guide

Division of Student Affairs and Academic Support

Department of Student Life

The 2013 Homecoming Commission

Homecoming Commission, USC, Russell House 227, Columbia, SC 29208

Office: (803) 777 – 7130 Fax: (803) 777 – 7132

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Table of Contents

Table of Contents…………………………………………………………………………………………………2 2013 Schedule of Events………………………………………………………………………………………3 Carolinian Creed………………………………………………………………………………………………….5 Important Homecoming Dates……………………………………………………………………………...6 Homecoming 2013 Official Rules and Participation Guidelines………………………………8 Competition Categories………………………………………………………………………………………11 Best Of Carolina Awards……………………………………………………………………………………..12 Point System……………………………………………………………………………………………………...13 Gamecock Greatness Award……………………………………………………………………..13 Cocky's Cup……………………………………………………………………………………………..15 Attendance……………………………………………………………………………………………...17 Homecoming Commission Contact List………………………………………………………………..18 Service Saturday………………………………………………………………………………………………...20 Homecoming Banners………………………………………………………………………………………...22 Paint the Town Garnet and Black………………………………………………………………………..24 Dance Marathon Ft5K…………………………………………………………………………………………25 Spurs and Struts…………………………………………………………………………………………………26 Showcase…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..29 Carolina's #1 Fan……………………………………………………………………………………………….32 Cockfest Corn-hole Tournament ………………………………………………………………………...34 Cockfest Pep Rally and Concert…………………………………………………………………………...36 Canned Creations……………………………………………………………………………………………….37 Parade……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….39 Step Show………………………………………………………………………………………………………….43 T-shirt Information…………………………………………………………………………………………….46 T-shirt Order Form…………………………………………………………………………………………….47

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2013 Schedule of Events

Saturday, October 26 Service Saturday 9:00 am – 2:00 pm

Sunday, October 27

Dance Marathon ft5k 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm Blatt PE Center

Banner and Paint the Town 12:00 pm

Russell House Room 227

Monday, October 28 Homecoming Kick-Off Event 11:00 am – 2:00 pm

Greene Street (T-shirts available for pick- up)

Spurs and Struts 8:00 pm

Greene Street

Tuesday, October 29 Showcase 7:00 pm Carolina Coliseum

Wednesday, October 30

Cockfest Corn-Hole Tournament 7:00 pm – 7:45 pm Greene Street

Cockfest Pep Rally 8:00 pm

Greene Street

Float Building 8:00 pm – 11:00 pm Greene Street Intramural Field

Thursday, October 31

Canned Creations 9:00 am – 2:00 pm Greene Street

Float Building 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Greene Street Intramural Field

Friday, November 1 Float Building 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Greene Street Intramural Field

Parade 3:00 pm

Step Show 7:00 pm Carolina Coliseum

Saturday, November 2

Homecoming Game: USC vs. Mississippi State Williams-Brice Stadium

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Carolinian Creed

The community of scholars at the University of South Carolina is dedicated to

personal and academic excellence.

Choosing to join the community obligates each member to a code of civilized behavior.

As a Carolinian...

I will practice

personal and academic integrity;

I will respect

the dignity of all persons;

I will respect

the rights and property of others;

I will discourage

bigotry, while striving to learn from differences in people, ideas and opinions;

I will demonstrate

concern for others, their feelings, and their need for conditions, which support their work and development.

Allegiance to these ideals requires each Carolinian

to refrain from and discourage behaviors, which threaten the freedom and respect every individual deserves.

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Important Homecoming Dates

**A representative from each participating organization MUST attend one of these two informational meetings in order for their organization to be eligible to participate** 9-20-13 Homecoming applications Due Online

(homecoming.sc.edu) Electronic Organizational Roster Due to (sahc@email.sc.edu) T-shirt orders are due in Russell House 227 (with money) by 4:00 pm Step Show Applications Due in Russell House 227 by 4:00 pm Step Show contract for Participation Due in Russell House 227 by 4:00 pm Showcase Applications Due in Russell House 227 by 4:00 pm Spurs and Struts Tryout Schedule posted online (homecoming.sc.edu)

9-30-13 Showcase Semi-Finalists Posted online (homecoming.sc.edu)

10-4-13 Parade Float Design Submission Due in Russell House 227 by 4:00 pm

10-7-13 Parade Float Designs Judged 10-9-13 Parade Float Design Winners posted

online (homecoming.sc.edu) 10-11-13 Last day for Showcase Semi-finalists to

sign up for interviews 10-13-13 Spurs and Struts Tryouts – Russell House

Ballroom, 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm Showcase Interviews in Russell House 301 (Witten Room), 2:00 pm – 8:00 pm

10-14-13 Spurs and Struts Finalists Posted Online (homecoming.sc.edu) Showcase Finalists posted online (homecoming.sc.edu)

10-18-13 Step Show music due to Allison Toney in Russell House 227 by 4:00 pm Step Show VIP lists due in Russell House 227 by 4:00 pm

Date Homecoming Event or Activity 9-12-13 **Information Meeting in Russell House

303 at 7:00 pm 9-18-13 **Information Meeting in Russell House

203 at 7:00 pm

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Step Show backstage pass list due in Russell House 227 by 4:00 pm Service Saturday participant list due by 4pm (email to ashleyjg@email.sc.edu) Last day to notify regarding participation in the parade and to submit a blurb about your organization. Email Alexis Brewe at brewe@email.sc.edu by 4:00pm. Last day for organizations to notify Lauren Baker that they would like to submit a team for the corn-hole tournament. Email Lauren Baker at lauren.baker18@gmail.com

10-25-13 Final Spurs and Struts music due to Allison Toney in RH 227 by 4:00 pm

10-26-13 Service Saturday, 9:00am – 2:00 pm 10-27-13 Banner Due to Russell House 227 by 12:00

pm Pick up Supplies For Paint the Town Garnet and Black in Russell House 227 at 12:00 pm Dance Marathon Ft5K, 1:00 – 4:00 pm

10-28-13 Kick-Off on Greene Street, 11:00am – 2:00 pm T-Shirt Pick up at Kick-Off on Greene Street, 11:00am – 2:00 pm Spurs and Struts on Greene Street at 8:00 pm

10-29-13 Showcase at Carolina Coliseum at 7:00 pm Carolina’s #1 Fan Submissions Due by 12:00 am to carolinas1fan@gmail.com

10-30-13 Cockfest Corn-hole Tournament at 7:00 pm Cockfest Pep Rally at 8:00 pm Carolina’s #1 Fan Float Building on Greene Street Intramural Fields, 8:00 pm – 11:00 pm

10-31-13 Canned Creations, 9:00am – 2:00 pm Float Building on Greene Street Intramural Fields, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm

11-1-13 Float Building on Greene Street Intramural Fields, 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm Parade at 3:00 pm Step Show at the Carolina Coliseum at 7:00 pm

11-2-13 Football Game USC vs. Mississippi State

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Homecoming 2013 Official Rules and Participation Guidelines

Homecoming Week will start Saturday, October 26 and culminate on Saturday, November 2 when the Gamecocks take on the Mississippi State University Bulldogs. Student organizations and individual students are encouraged to register to take part in all Homecoming week activities. Organizations have the option to participate in the annual Homecoming Points competition by competing in either the Gamecock Greatness or Cocky’s Cup categories. Points are awarded to organizations throughout the week for attending, participating in, and winning Homecoming events. The group(s) with the most points collected over the week will win the honor of first place for their respective competitive category. These organizations will be recognized during the halftime program at the Homecoming football game on November 2, 2013.

1. Any enrolled USC student or registered, student organization may participate in Homecoming activities.

2. USC student organizations participating in Homecoming activities must be registered and in good standing with the Department of Student Life.

3. Organizations have the option to compete in the Homecoming Points

Competition in either the Gamecock Greatness OR Cocky’s Cup Category (see page 9 for competition category guidelines).

4. Participation in the Homecoming Points competition of either category

during Homecoming Week is optional for any organization. Organizations must indicate on their application if they will or will not be participating in the point’s competition.

5. The organization with the most collected points at the end of Homecoming

Week will be deemed the winner of their respective competitive category (Gamecock Greatness or Cocky’s Cup).

6. Two organizations participating as a team in Homecoming Week events will

share all points earned. To register as a team, both groups must list their partner organization on their individual applications.

7. Student organizations that are not participating in the points competition are

still capable of winning Homecoming honors/awards (ex. Best of Carolina).

8. Attendance points are awarded for attending Showcase, Spurs and Struts and Cockfest.

9. To earn attendance points organization members must swipe their own USC

ID at designated check-in turbos. Turbos will be available 30 minutes before each event begins and will remain open until 15 minutes after the official start time of the event. For all events, points are calculated by the percentage

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of checked-in organization members (see page 12 for full explanation of points system). Homecoming Commission members will monitor attendance for all events.

10. Organizations are required to designate an official Homecoming

representative on the Homecoming application. This person will serve as the official contact person, and will receive all Homecoming notifications and updates from the commission for his/her organization.

11. Official Homecoming applications are due online at (homecoming.sc.edu) by

Friday, September 20, 2013.

12. In addition to the application, organizations participating in Homecoming Week must submit a full, updated organizational roster. Please submit an electronic list, in excel format (Full first name, last name) to (sahc@email.sc.edu) by Friday, September 20.

a. Please make sure to include new members on this roster b. Take members off the roster who are disaffiliating (Ex. Homecoming

Commission members) c. Please make sure names are spelled correctly as this could alter

points collected

13. Only members on this roster can compete and receive participation points during the week of Homecoming. NO adjustments can be made to the rosters after being submitted by Friday, September 20.

14. All preliminary information (audition schedules, finalists etc.) will be posted on the Homecoming website (homecoming.sc.edu).

15. The Homecoming Commission will not reimburse organizations for

expenses related to Homecoming Week.

16. Overall Homecoming winners will be announced at the half-time presentation on Saturday, November 2.

17. One representative from each organization receiving an overall Homecoming

award will be required to attend the halftime presentation to accept the award(s) on behalf of their organization. If the winning team is comprised of two organizations, one member from each organization is allowed on the field to accept the Homecoming award.

18. Organization presidents and Homecoming representative must state that

their organization will follow all rules by submitting the Homecoming application and signed agreement.

19. All rules are strictly enforced by the Director of Rules and Regulations.

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20. Performances and entries in Homecoming Week must not display offensive or inappropriate language and behavior. All offensive performances and entries are subject to scoring deductions and disqualification at the discretion of the Director of Rules and Regulations. Additionally, all point deductions and penalties for breaking rules will be made at the discretion of the Director of Rules and Regulations.

21. The Homecoming Commission reserves the right to disqualify any

organization found in violation of the rules set forth in this information guide, the policies of the USC Department of Student Life, and the policies and guidelines of the University of South Carolina.

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Competition Categories

Organizations will be able to participate in the annual Homecoming Points competition by competing in either of the following categories. Each category will be judged separately and there will be an overall winner announced within each category.

Gamecock Greatness Category Organizations will apply for this category if:

1. They are competing alone or as a pair with more than 80 members on their official roster. Note: if competing as a pair, the combined total of both organizations must be MORE THAN 80 members.

2. They are interested in competing with other large organizations. 3. They want to showcase their Gamecock spirit!

Cocky’s Cup Category Organizations will apply for this category if:

1. They are competing alone or as a pair with 80 members or less on their official roster. Note: if competing as a pair, the combined total of both organizations must be 80 members OR LESS.

2. They are interested in competing with other small organizations. 3. They want to showcase their Gamecock spirit!

Note: The point breakdowns for each category (for those organizations competing) are depicted on the following pages.

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Best of Carolina Awards

About: All student organizations have the option to apply to for the Best of Carolina Awards. Student organizations that are not participating in the Homecoming Points competition are still capable of winning Homecoming honors/awards. These awards recognize organizations, individuals and alumni for their achievements outside of Homecoming Week. All Best of Carolina Award applications are to completed separate from the Homecoming participant application and are to be submitted online at http://www.sa.sc.edu/homecoming/. For additional assistance contact Marissa Barmine, the Director of Rules and Regulations, at barmine@email.sc.edu. Points Allocation: If you are a member of an organization participating in the Homecoming Week Points competition, and would like to submit an application on behalf of your organization, or nominate a member of your organization, your organization can receive points for winning a Best of Carolina Award. Cocky’s Cup and Gamecock Greatness Award:

1. Competition: a. Each Award is worth 200 points

The National Recognition Award The National Recognition Award is given to an organization that has received a significant recognition from an organization outside of USC. Please include proof of award or recognition (i.e. copy of Award).

The Order of the Gamecock Award The Order of the Gamecock Award is given to an individual student who has made a significant and positive impact at the University of South Carolina. The Community Service Award The Community Service Award is given to an organization for outstanding volunteer work in the community through a specific service project. The Spirit of Carolina Award The Spirit of Carolina Award is given to an organization whose achievements most embody the ideals and spirit of Carolina, especially those presented in the Carolinian Creed. Carolina Alumni Award The Carolina Alumni Award is given to an individual alumnus who has made a significant and positive impact in their field of work, community and/or University of South Carolina. The nominated person must be an alumnus of the nominating organization and submit a letter of acceptance for the nomination.

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Point System – Gamecock Greatness Competition Category

EVENT PARTICIPATION COMPETITION & ATTENDANCE

1st 2nd 3rd Attendance Banner 50 pts. 200 pts. 150 pts. 100 pts.

Dance Marathon Ft5K Race (BONUS)

5pts. per 1%

(Explanation below)

Service Saturday (BONUS)

100 pts. for participation of

10 members

Paint the Town Garnet and Black

75 pts.

Showcase 15 pts. per Semi-finalist (2

max) 20 pts. per Finalist (2

max)

150 pts. King 150 pts. Queen

100 pts. Prince

100 pts. Princess

0-100% members

Showcase Congeniality

50 pts. male 50 pts. female

Showcase Talent 50 pts.

Spurs and Struts 50 pts. 200 pts. 150 pts. 100 pts. 0-100% members

Canned Creations 50 pts. 200 pts. 150 pts. 100 pts.

Cockfest *Attendance only

0-100% members

Carolina’s #1 Fan 10 pts. per 2 entries (10

entries max)

200 pts. 150 pts. 100 pts.

Corn-hole Tournament

10 pts. per team (2 teams

max)

200 pts. 150 pts. 100 pts.

Corn-hole Most Spirited

30 pts.

Parade 100 pts. for approved float

75 pts. for walking in the

parade

400 pts. 300 pts. 200 pts.

Step Show 50 pts. 200 pts. 150 pts. male

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male 200 pts. female

150 pts. female

National Recognition

200 pts.

Spirit of Carolina 200 pts.

Community Service

200 pts.

Alumni Award 200 pts.

Order of the Gamecock

200 pts.

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Points System – Cocky’s Cup Competition Category

EVENT PARTICIPATION COMPETITION & ATTENDANCE

1st 2nd 3rd Attendance Banner 50 pts. 200 pts. 150 pts. 100 pts.

Dance Marathon Ft5k Race (BONUS)

5pts. per 1% (Explanation

below)

Service Saturday (BONUS)

100 pts. for participation of

5 members

Paint the Town Garnet and Black

75 pts.

Showcase 15 pts. per Semi finalist (2 max)

20 points per Finalist (2 max)

150 pts. King

150 pts. Queen

100 pts. Prince

100 pts. Princess

0-100% members

Showcase Congeniality

50 pts. male

50 pts. female

Showcase Talent 50 pts. Spurs and Struts 50 pts. 200 pts. 150 pts. 100 pts. 0-100%

members Canned Creations 50 pts. 200 pts. 150 pts. 100 pts.

Cockfest *Attendance only

0-100% members

Carolina’s #1 Fan? 10 pts. per 2 entries (10

entries max)

200 pts. 150 pts. 100 pts.

Corn-hole Tournament

10 pts. per team (2 teams max)

200 pts. 150 pts. 100 pts.

Corn-hole Most Spirited

30 pts.

Step Show

50 pts. 200 pts. male

200 pts. female

150 pts. male

150 pts. female

Parade 100 pts. For approved float

75 pts. for walking in the

parade

400 pts. 300 pts. 200 pts.

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Parade Spirit Award 20 pts. for being spirited

National Recognition

200 pts.

Spirit of Carolina 200 pts. Community Service 200 pts.

Alumni Award 200 pts. Order of the Gamecock

200 pts.

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Points for Attendance of Homecoming Events: 1-20% of membership 10 pts. 21-40% of membership 25 pts. 41-60% of membership 40 pts. 61-80% of membership 55 pts. 81-100% of membership 75 pts. Dance Marathon Ft5k: Attendance points will be calculated based on the percentage of checked-in organization members on their official roster. For every 1% checked in the organization will receive 5 attendance points. Example: Organization has 100 total members and 23 members check-in and run. That organization will receive 115 points! (23/100=23% x 5pts = 115 attendance points) Cocky’s Cup Parade: By taking part in the Parade, Cocky’s Cup competitors may receive 75 participation points. Teams have the opportunity to earn an additional 20 points for demonstrating creativity and/or school spirit (this could include use of a banner, the use of outfits or costumes, incorporation of Carolina swag etc.) Points will be awarded at the discretion of the Homecoming Commission. **All organizations must notify Alexis Brewe (brewe@email.sc.edu ) by Friday, October 18 at 4:00pm and provide a 2 sentence blurb about your organization to participate in the Parade. No late entries will be accepted.

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Homecoming Commission Contact List

Homecoming Commissioner Valerie Cumpston

cumpston@email.sc.edu (412) 651 - 2057

Vice Commissioner

Taylor Monferdini tmmonferdini@gmail.com

Director of Rules and Regulations

Marissa Barmine Barmine@email.sc.edu

Director of Marketing

Surena Mitchell mitchesr@email.sc.edu

Director of Sponsorships (includes Kick- Off)

Jackie O’Connor oconnojm@email.sc.edu

Event Directors

Spirit (Banner and Paint the Town) and Parade Alexis Brewe

brewe@email.sc.edu

Service (DM ft5k, Canned Creations, and other service projects) Jen Ashley

ashleyjg@email.sc.edu

Spurs and Struts Kelly McQuade

mcquadka@email.sc.edu

Showcase Dakota Bierly

bierlyd@email.sc.edu

Cockfest and Carolina’s #1 Fan Lauren Baker

lauren.baker18@gmail.com

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Step Show Nishikwa Mellerson

mellerso@email.sc.edu

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Service Saturday Saturday, October 26

9:00 am – 2:00 pm Co-sponsored with Community Service Programs

Event Director: Jen Ashley

About: Once a month, 200 students gather on a Saturday to participate in a half-day of community service. Students travel to a community agency where they complete a service project. Past service sites include Harvest Hope Food Bank, Agape Senior Assisted Living Facility, and Belser Arboretum to name a few. Transportation and lunch are provided. Students are encouraged to register in advance to guarantee a spot. Important Dates:

1. September 23 a. Registration opens – go to

http://www.sa.sc.edu/communityservice/servicesat/ to register 2. Friday, October 18

a. List of participating organization members due – email list to Jen Ashley at ashleyjg@email.sc.edu

3. Saturday, October 26 a. Service Saturday event

Points Allocation: (a maximum of 100 points can be awarded) Cocky’s Cup:

1. Participation: 100 points for participation of 3 members Gamecock Greatness Award:

1. Participation: 100 points for participation of 5 members Rules:

1. Each group must arrive at Russell House at 8:00 am for check in. Buses depart at 9:00 am.

2. Participants must register with Community Service Programs. To register with Community Service Programs go to the website: http://www.sa.sc.edu/communityservice/servicesat/ (available September)

a. Under register now, click on the link for the October 26, Service Saturday date. You should be directed to the Volunteer Registration form.

b. Make sure to include the organization’s name on the Volunteer Registration form.

3. Groups that would like to receive points for participation must submit a list of all organization members serving to Jen Ashley (see contact list for e-mail) by 5:00 pm on Friday, October 18.

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4. 10 points will be deducted from an organization’s total Homecoming points for each participant signed up for the Service Saturday event that does not show up.

5. **Participants cannot send replacements 6. ** If for some reason an individual is unable to attend, but would like for

another member of their organization to participate, they can show up Saturday, October 26, at 8:30 am and sign in at the wait table in hopes of being placed. There is no guarantee that this individual will be placed.

** This rule is in accordance with Community Service Programs Service Saturday Policies.

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Homecoming Banners Sunday, October 27

12:00 pm Greene Street/ Blatt PE Center/ Strom

Event Director: Alexis Brewe

About: To participate in the Homecoming banner competition, each organization must decorate a banner that reflects the 2013 Homecoming theme “United States of Carolina”. The banners will be judged by an objective panel of judges based on the organization’s creativity and their adherence to the theme. Organizations then have the option to have their banner displayed at one of the three campus locations. Important Dates:

1. Sunday, October 27 a. Banners due in the Campus Life Center (Russell House 227) by 12:00

pm b. Judging begins at 2:00 pm

Points Allocation: Cocky’s Cup:

1. Participation: 50 points 2. Competition:

a. 1st Place: 200 points b. 2nd place: 150 points c. 3rd place: 100 points

Gamecock Greatness Award:

1. Participation: 50 points 2. Competition:

a. 1st Place: 200 points b. 2nd Place: 150 points c. 3rd Place: 100 points

Rules:

1. Banners must be made on twin-sized sheets 2. Banners must be landscape oriented 3. When banners are submitted, the organization must indicate if they intend to

keep the banner. Homecoming is not liable for any banner that is stolen or taken after being hung.

4. Banners may be hung in three different places. a. First, second, and third place banners from both competition

categories will be hung on the Greene Street Wall. b. Organizations that do not place have the option to hang their banners

at Blatt or Strom. 5. The Homecoming Commission will hang the banners.

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6. All banners must include the names of the organizations that created the banner.

7. Banners must be completely dry before they are turned in for judging 8. Judging will be equally based on adherence to theme, aesthetics, and design.

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Paint the Town Garnet and Black Sunday, October 27

11:00 am

Event Director: Alexis Brewe

About: Paint the Town Garnet and Black is a window-painting event in which each organization is matched with a local business or recognizable location in the city of Columbia. Important Dates:

1. Sunday, October 27 a. Window spots assigned at 12:00 pm b. Window painting begins at 12:00 pm

2. Sunday, November 3 a. Windows must be cleaned by 5:00 pm

Points Allocation: Cocky’s Cup:

1. Participation: 75 points Gamecock Greatness Award:

1. Participation: 75 points Rules:

1. Participating organizations must fill out a formal agreement with their paired businesses/location.

a. The agreement will be emailed to the organization’s designated Homecoming representative.

2. Each organization will be provided with 4 colors of paint markers (one of which will be black). Teams are allowed to bring additional paint markers of various colors.

3. Each organization will have a designated area for painting. These areas will be given on a first come, first serve basis. Nobody will be assigned a spot before 12:00 pm on Sunday, October 27.

4. Teams may begin window painting Sunday, October 27 at 12:00 pm 5. Paint must be cleaned up ENTIRELY by Sunday, November 3 at 5:00 pm.

If the windows are not cleaned up by this date and time, the business reserves the right to charge the organization(s) a cleanup fee, and the team will have 100 points deducted from their total Homecoming points, which could result in a loss of a title.

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Dance Marathon Ft5K Race Sunday, October 27

1:00 pm Blatt PE Center

About: Dance Marathon, at the University of South Carolina is the largest student-run philanthropy in the state. It is an annual 24 hour no sitting, no sleeping event held each year in February. USCDM raises awareness and funds for the Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital, out local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital. Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital is the largest free-standing children’s hospital in the state, serving over 80,000 patients each year. The 5K fundraiser will take place on Sunday, October 27, 2013 at 1:00 pm in front of the Blatt PE Center. Important Dates:

1. TBD a. Registration for Ft5k opens – register at uscdm.org

2. Sunday, October 27 a. Ft5K begins at 1:00 pm

Points Allocation: Cocky’s Cup:

1. Participation: 5 points per 1% of participation (explanation on page 8) Gamecock Greatness Award:

1. Participation: 5 points per 1% of participation (explanation on page 8) Rules:

1. Individuals are able to walk or run in the event. 2. Points will only be award to organizations whose participants have

registered and paid Dance Marathon in order to participate. 3. Points will be awarded to phantom runners. 4. More information will become available as the Ft5k approaches.

If you have any questions, please contact uscft5k@gmail.com

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Spurs and Struts Monday, October 28

8:00 pm Greene Street

Event Director: Kelly McQuade

About: Spurs and Struts is the annual Homecoming dance competition. Paritipants are judged on spirit, synchornization, pep, and how well their dance incorporates the 2013 Homecoming theme “United States of Carolina”. A variety of dance styles and music are encouraged, though discretion is advised. Important Dates:

1. Friday, September 20 a. Spurs and Struts tryout schedule posted online (homecoming.sc.edu)

2. Sunday, October 13 a. Spurs and Struts tryouts in the Russell House Ballroom from 4 pm –

10 pm. 3. Monday, October 14

a. Spurs and Struts finalists posted online (homecoming.sc.edu) 4. Friday, October 25

a. A CD-R with the final music for an organization’s routine must be submitted to Russell House Suite 227 by 4:00 pm.

5. Monday, October 28 a. Spurs and Struts event

Points Allocation Cocky’s Cup and Gamecock Greatness Award:

1. Participation: 50 points (for trying out) 2. Competition:

a. First Place: 200 points b. Second Place: 150 points c. Third Place: 100 points

3. Attendance: Attendance points will be calculated based on the percentage of checked in organization members on the official roster

4. Deductions: a. .25 points will be deducted from a team’s final Spurs and Struts score

for every 15 seconds their performance exceeds the four minute time limit

b. .25 points will be deducted from a team’s final Spurs and Struts score each time one of the four required Top Billboard songs is not used for a minimum of 30 seconds in their routine.

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Rules: 1. Participation:

a. Spurs and struts is a GROUP dance competition. Multiple couple’s dances may be included as part of the group routine, but they are not required.

b. Group routines are limited to 25 dancers total c. No member of any organization may enter the competition more than

once. (Ex. If you are a member of both a Greek and service sorority, you may only participate as a member of one group.)

d. Organizations partnered with a second organization for Homecoming activities may only be entered into the competition once.

e. Only those registered for the Homecoming Point’s competition may participate

f. In order to participate, dancers must be registered members of the organization he/she is representing in the competition.

2. Routine : a. Each organization will draw four songs from a bowl that they must

incorporate into their routine for a minimum of 30 seconds for each song. All of the songs will come from the Billboard Top 100 released in the last 10 years on the second week of November.

b. The remaining two minutes of the routine may be filled with music of the organization’s choice.

c. The use of professional choreography (i.e. from a movie or music video) or a professional choreographer is prohibited. Any group found to be using such material will be disqualified.

d. Dance routines may not exceed four minutes in length. (.25) points will be deducted from a team’s performance score for every 15 seconds the routine exceeds the four minute time limit.

e. No routine may involve “stunting”. This includes any form of cheer stunts, lifts, and/or tumbling.

3. Tryouts: a. The audition schedule will be posted online at the Homecoming

website (homecoming.sc.edu) by Friday, September 20. b. All tryouts will be held on Sunday, October 13 in the Russell House

Ballroom from 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm. c. All dancers must be present 15 minutes prior to their organization’s

tryout time in order to participate in tryouts. d. Any late dancer or organization will be unable to participate in the

tryouts. e. Organization’s cannot require dancers to wear matching costumes for

the tryouts. f. Organizations will not be penalized for (mismatching etc.) costumes

during tryouts unless their clothing is inappropriate. g. Organizations must supply and bring any props necessary for their

performance. c. . 25 points will be deducted from a team’s tryout score for every 15

seconds their performance exceeds the four minute time limit

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h. Auditions are closed. Organizations may have no more than 2 non-dancing members watching the audition.

i. No organization or member therof may watch another organization’s tryout.

j. Organizations must bring a CD-R with only their routine’s track on the disk. Tryout facilitators will play only the first track on the disk.

k. The nine top-scoring teams will move on to the Spurs and Struts Competition.

4. Spurs and Struts Competition a. Stage Dimestions: 32’ (wide) x 20’ (deep) x 9’ (tall) b. The nine finalist organizations will be posted on Homecoming

Website (homecoming.sc.edu) on Monday, October 14. c. Finalist organizations must provide a WELL LABELED CD-R copy of

their routine’s music to Allison Toney in Russell House 227 by 4:00 pm on Friday, October 25.

d. All dancers must report to a designated meeting area one hour before their organization’s performance time. (Meeting area TBD)

e. Organizations may have no more than 2 non-dancing members backstage during the competition at any time.

f. Only dancers are allowed on stage g. Finalist organizations should perform a routine that very closely

resembles the tryout routine, though improvements and small changes may be made between tryouts and the Spurs and Struts Competition.

h. Organization’s are encouraged to wear spirits AND appropriate costumes.

i. Stage displays are welcomed, though they should be limited to a flat backdrop and one or two free-standing displays.

j. The use of hand-held signs is allowed. k. Teams will NOT be allowed to re-perform their routine unless there is

a technical fault. In this case, teams will be allowed to restart their performance once.

l. After an organization’s final performance, all dancers and organization members are required to clear the designated backstage aread. Organizations who fail to completely vacate the backstage area will be disqualified.

m. One member from each team must return to the backstage area after the final performance for the competition results.

n. In the event of rain or poor weather, the Spurs and Struts competition will be moved to the Rusell House Ballroom

o. Judging criteria for Spurs and Struts will be as follows: i. 25% Spirit

ii. 25% Creativity iii. 25% Adherence to Theme iv. 25% Synchronization, Difficulty, and Technique

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Showcase Tuesday, October 29

7:00 pm Carolina Coliseum

Event Director: Dakota Bierly

About: Showcase, is a Homecoming event that celebrates the accomplishments and talents of students at the University of South Carolina and determines the annual South Carolina homecoming king and queen. Each team registered for participation in Homecoming Week can nominate a maximum of two members (one male and one female from each organization) to apply for this event. After careful review of the showcase applications, faculty and staff judges will determine the top 10 female and top 10 male applicants. A second objective panel of judges will interview these 20 individuals and the five most qualified males and females will move on to the final Showcase competition. These 10 candidates will compete in a pageant showcasing their presentation, talent, and interview skills, and our homecoming king, queen, prince and princess will be crowned. Important Dates:

1. Friday, Sepetmber 20 a. Showcase applications and all attached application materials must be

submitted to Russell House Suite 227 by 4:00 pm. 2. Monday, September 30

a. Results for first round of selection posted on the Homecoming website 3. Second Round of Selection:

a. Participants sign up for interviews – by Friday, October 11 at 4:00 PM

b. Interviews are held – Sunday, October 13 in Russell House Room 301 (Witten Room)

c. Finalists posted on Homecoming website – Monday, October 14 4. Tuesday, October 29

a. Showcase Event 5. Saturday, November 2

a. Homecoming football game Points Allocation: Cocky’s Cup and Gamecock Greatness Award:

1. Participation: a. Selection of an applicant as a Semi Finalist: 15 points b. Selection of an applicant as a Finalist: 20 points

2. Competition: a. King/Queen: 150 points b. Prince/Princess: 100 points

3. Congeniality Award: 50 points (male and female winners)

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4. Talent Award: 50 points Rules:

1. Academic Qualifications for Nominees: a. Candidates must be full-time students at the University of South

Carolina in Columbia b. Candidates must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and 60 credit hours

completed, 30 of which must have been completed at the USC Columbia campus

2. Nomination Process: a. Candidates may only be nominated by a registered student

organization at the USC-Columbia campus that has registered for participation in the point’s competition.

b. Each team may nominate a maximum of two candidates; one king and one queen.

c. Organizations should, at their own discretion, choose eligible candidates whom the members of the organization deem qualified to represent their group.

d. Students may not nominate themselves. e. Organizations cannot nominate someone who previously made it to

the finalist stage. 3. Application Process:

a. All properly nominated candidates must complete the official Showcase application

b. The application will be available on the Homecoming website (http://www.sa.sc.edu/sl/homecoming/) beginning the third week of August.

c. No applications will ask for demographic information from any Showcase applicant

4. Rehearsals: a. Participants must attend all rehearsals and meetings set up by the

Homecoming Commission. b. Only one (1) absence, approved by the Homecoming Commission will

be permitted. c. Any participant who does not attend all meetings will not be able to

compete. 5. Selection Process:

a. First Selection Round – Application Review i. Only complete and timely applications will be considered

ii. An objective commission comprised of a diverse group of faculty and staff will judge all complete and timely applications

iii. Judges are not privy to any applicant’s name or demographic data

iv. The judges will select the 10 best-qualified semi-finalists for Homecoming King and the 10 best-qualified semi-finalists for Homecoming Queen, based solely on the information provided to them in the Showcase applications.

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b. Second Selection Round – Interview i. A second objective panel comprised of a diverse group of

faculty members, administrators, alumni, and local community members will interview each semi-finalist

ii. Interviews will last 10 to 15 minutes per semi-finalist iii. The ratings of these judges will make up each semi-finalist’s

interview score, which will be used to select the five best-qualified male and five best-qualified female semi-finalists.

iv. In the event of a tie in interview scores, the scores from the first selection round will be used to determine the winner. (Only in the event of a tie will previous scores be referred to during this phase)

c. Third Selection Round – Showcase i. A third objective panel comprised of a diverse group of faculty

members, administrators, alumni, and local community members will serve as judges for the Homecoming Showcase on October 29, 2013.

ii. Finalists will perform publicly, displaying their speaking skills, poise, formalwear, and public presentation of talent.

iii. The talent portion of the Showcase competition will be no longer than five minutes per finalist

iv. The talent must consist of a presentation to the audience that is performed at the time of Showcase.

**Appropriate talents include, but are not limited to: live music performance, dramatic interpretation, rhetoric, spoken word performance, stand-up comedy, or dance.

v. The talent cannot rely heavily on recorded video. vi. Equipment available to finalists for talent performances will

include various musical instruments, microphones, and a projector screen.

vii. The judges will select a Homecoming King and Queen, a Homecoming Prince and Princess and a contestant to receive the talent award based on the talent scores.

viii. All finalists will vote on a Miss and Mr. Congeniality for the competition, to be announced with the King, Queen, Prince and Princess at the end of Showcase.

ix. In the event of a tie, scores from the interview round will be used to determine the winner. (Only in the event of a tie will previous scores be used during the Showcase round)

x. The judging criteria for Showcase will be as follows: a. 15% Personality b. 20% Audience Vote (via text messaging) c. 25% Talent d. 25% Onstage Interview e. 15% Poise/Formalwear

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Carolina’s #1 Fan Wednesday, October 30

Event Director: Lauren Baker

About: Every year we see thousands of studens in the student section of Williams Brice Stadium claming to be Carolina’s #1 Fan, now we want YOU to prove it! During Cockfest, on Wednesday October 30, Homecoming will be hosting a contest to determine Carolina’s #1 Fan. Submit a video to USC Homecoming and you could be invited to cheer on stage during Cockfest and be crowned Carolina’s #1 Fan! *This event is open to all students

Important Dates:

1. Monday, October 28 a. Last day to submit a video entry (entries submitted after 11:59 pm on

Monday, October 28 will not be considered for judging) 2. Wednesday, October 30

a. Cockfest at 8:00 pm Points Allocation: If you are a member of an organization participating in the Homecoming Week Points competition and would like to submit a video, your organization will receive 10 points for every 2 video entries. Organizations are limited to 10 entries. Cocky’s Cup and Gamecock Greatness Award:

2. Participation: 10 points for every 2 video entries 3. Competition:

a. First Place: 200 points b. Second Place: 150 points c. Third Place: 100 points

Rules:

1. Participant must be a current undergraduate or graduate student at USC 2. Participant must submit their video to the USC Homecoming email

(sahc@email.sc.edu) by Monday, October 28 at 11:59 pm 3. Videos cannot be longer than 2 minutes 4. Videos must be relevant and appropriate, and must not include nudity,

cursing, vile language, alcohol, or other obscenities. 5. Videos may not include content that insults an opposing team or violates an

opposing team’s mascot 6. Videos must focus on only one individual, not a group. Other people may be

featured in the video, but the video must focus on only one person.

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7. Along with the video, the student must fill out the following information and submit with their video

a. Participants name b. Year at USC c. Participant’s Affiliate Organization (if applicable) d. Why you believe you are Carolina’s #1 Fan e. Participant’s contact information (phone number AND e-mail

address) 8. Finalists must attend the Cockfest Pep Rally and concert to be named the

winner. *More dates and information will become available as Homecoming Week approaches.

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Cockfest Corn-hole Tournament Wednesday, October 30

7:00 pm – 7:45 pm Greene Street

Event Director: Lauren Baker

About: The Cockfest Corn-hole Tournament is Homecoming Weeks’ newest competitive event. Each organization registered to participate in the Homecoming Points competition can register up to two teams in the tournament. Teams are comprised of two individuals from either large or small organizations. The teams will be organized into single-elimination brackets, and the winning team from each match will advance in the competition. The corn-hole sets are donated by Sandlapper Corn-holes. Important Dates:

1. Friday, September 20 a. Last day for organizations to notify Lauren Baker that they would

like to submit a team for the corn-hole tournament (lauren.baker18@gmail.com)

2. Wednesday, October 30 a. Corn-hole Tournament

Points Allocation: Cocky’s Cup and Gamecock Greatness Award:

1. Participation: 10 points for each team registered to compete 2. Competition:

a. First Place: 200 points b. Second Place: 150 points c. Third Place: 100 points

3. Most Spirited Award: 30 points a. This award will be presented to the organization that brings the most

lively and energetic spectators to support their team. Rules:

1. Each organization can submit up to two teams 2. Participating teams must arrive at Greene Street at 6:45 pm. 3. Teams that fail to arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of the tournament will

not be allowed to participate. 4. Teams will be randomly arranged in a single-elimination bracket. 5. There will be no separate bracket for large and small organizations. 6. The length of each match will be determined by the number of teams that

sign up to compete. 7. Once the length of the match is determined, teams will have X amount of time

to win the most number of points (the tournament WILL NOT be organized by innings)

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8. One defeat will result in elimination. The winning team will advance in the competition.

9. The value of the corn-bag is as follows: a. Corn Bag In-The-Hole: A corn bag in the hole is a corn bag that is

thrown through the hole in the corn-hole platform or otherwise comes to rest inside the corn-hole platform (knocked in by another player). A corn bag in-the-hole has a value of three points.

b. Corn Bag In-The-Count: A corn bag that is not in the hole but lands with any portion of the corn bag resting on the corn-hole platform is in the count. For a corn bag to be in the count, it must not touch the ground or any other portion of the court prior to coming to rest on the corn-hole platform. If a corn bag touches the ground before coming to rest on the corn-hole platform, it is a foul and must be removed from the corn-hole platform prior to the continuation of play. A corn bag in the count has a value of one point

c. Corn Bag Out-Of-The-Count: A corn bag that comes to rest anywhere except in the count or in the hole is out-of-the-count and has no scoring value. A corn bag that is declared to be a foul is considered to be out-of-the-count (no matter where it comes to rest) and must be removed from the corn-hole surface prior to the continuation of play.

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Cockfest Pep Rally and Concert Wednesday, October 30

8:00 pm Greene Street

Event Director: Lauren Baker

UNITED STATES OF CAROLINA

School Spirit

&

Concert

*Artists to be announced later

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Canned Creations Thursday, October 31 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Greene Street Co-sponsored with Carolina Service Council

Event Director: Jen Ashley

About: Canned Creations is a competition where organizations create an object/design out of cans to represent the Homecoming Theme “United States of Carolina”. At the end of the service event, all cans are collected and donated to Harvest Hope Food Bank. In 2012, Canned Creations donated over 11,000 pounds of non-perishables to Harvest Hope. Important Dates:

1. Thursday, October 31 a. Canned Creations event

Points Allocation: Cocky’s Cup:

1. Participation: 50 points 2. Competition:

a. First Place: 200 points b. Second Place: 150 points c. Third Place: 100 points

Gamecock Greatness Award:

1. Participation: 50 points 2. Competition:

a. First Place: 200 points b. Second Place: 150 points c. Third Place: 100 points

Rules:

1. Each organization must provide at least 2 cans per member. Total number of organization members will be taken from official rosters submitted. For Example, if you have 100 people in your organization you minimum entry is 200 cans.

2. Participating teams must arrive at Greene Street at 9:00 am with the minimum required number of cans. Participants will have an hour to set up cans into 10 x 10 blocks within their designated areas in order to have the cans counted by Homecoming representatives. Note: An organizational representative should bring cans for their organization on the day of the event, they should not be dropped off in front of Russell House prior to Canned Creations

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3. Construction of each creation will take place between 10:00 am – 2:00 pm on Thursday, October 31 on Greene street in front of Russell House.

4. Groups may not start building until the minimum number of cans required from their organization has been verified or 10:00 am, whichever is earlier.

5. Each group will be allotted a space on Greene Street that measures 8 x 8 feet. 6. For safety reasons, canned creations cannot be stacked higher than 10 feet. 7. Groups may practice construction or develop their design before the event

(sketches, designs, measurements, etc.) BUT each creation must start from scratch the day of the event. No cans may be attached to one-another or pre-wrapped with construction paper before arrival on Greene Street.

8. Creations must be built entirely from non-perishable food, fishing line/string/thin wire, cardboard, rubber bands, construction paper, and scotch tape may be used for structural support. All construction paper must be attached/touching a can.

9. Groups may bring ¼ inch-thick flat plywood to ensure a flat surface for building. The floor of your creation must include cans if decorated.

10. Only one piece of USC paraphernalia may be used as a theme-related accent, however this is not required for the creation.

11. The judging criteria for Canned Creations will be as follows: a. 25% Adherence to theme b. 25% Esthetics c. 25% Presentation d. 25% Design

12. All creations must be properly torn down by 2:15 pm. 13. Teams are responsible for loading and unloading cans and also cleaning up

their space, including loading cans into the Harvest Hope Food Bank truck.

14. All cans collected will be donated to Harvest Hope Food Bank.

Harvest Hope Wish List Includes: Canned vegetables and fruit, canned meats and fish, peanut butter, rice, instant potatoes, spaghetti sauce, canned soups and stews, ready to eat Pop-Top items, evaporate or powdered milk, macaroni and cheese, sugar, coffee, Jell-O, diapers ands personal hygiene items. All of these items can be included in your minimum amount.

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Parade Friday, November 1

3:00 pm Campus

Event Director: Alexis Brewe

About: The Homecoming Parade is the only Homecoming event that unites the entire Columbia community: students, alumni, and local residents alike. Organizations participating in the Homecoming points competition as part of the Gamecock Greatness category have the option to submit a proposed float design. Seven finalists will be selected to build their floats for the Parade the Friday during Homecoming Week. These floats will be judged by an objective panel of judges and scored based on creativity, aesthetics, and adherence to the Homecoming theme. There will be first, second, and third place winners. If an organization does not wish to build a float they can choose to walk in the Parade. Organizations participating in the Cocky’s Cup category can also be recognized by walking in the parade. Greene Street Intramural Field Address: 743 Greene Street (Fields adjacent to the Colonial Life Arena) Important Dates:

1. Thursday, October 3 a. Parade float design submissions due in RH 227 by 4:00 pm

2. Monday, October 7 a. Parade float designs judged

3. Wednesday, October 9 a. Seven parade finalists announced on the Homecoming website

(homecoming.sc.edu) 4. Friday, October 18

a. Last day for organizations to notify Alexis Brewe that they would like to participate in the parade (walking etc.)

b. Last day to submit a 2 sentence blurb about your organization in order to participate in the parade

5. Wednesday, October 30 a. Float Building on the Greene Street Intramural fields from 8:00 pm –

11:00 pm 6. Thursday, October 31

a. Float building on the Greene Street Intramural fields from 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm

7. Friday, November 1 a. Float building on the Greene Street Intramural fields from 12:00 pm –

2:00 pm b. Parade line-up at 2:15 pm c. Parade event at 3:00 pm

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Points Allocation: Cocky’s Cup:

1. Participation: 75 points 2. Competition: 20 additional points can be awarded to an organization that

incorporates creativity and/or demonstrates school spirit to enhance the parade. (This could include the use of a banner, outfits or costumes, the incorporation of Carolina swag etc.) Points will be awarded at the discretion of the Homecoming Commission.

Gamecock Greatness Award:

1. Participation a. Finalist Float Design with trailer provided by USC: 100 points b. Organization walking in parade with a banner: 75 points c. Organization that provides their own trailer and participates: 75

points 2. Competition:

a. First Place: 400 points b. Second Place: 300 points c. Third Place: 200 points

3. Deductions: a. 300 points will be deducted from an organization that is awarded a

finalist spot and given a trailer but does not participate in the parade. b. 100 points will be deducted from teams that do not clean up their

float building space on Greene Street Intramural fields c. 100 points will be deducted from teams who fail to clean up their float

after the parade. * Only organizations that have an approved float design and are using USC trailers can compete for competition points (1st, 2nd, 3rd) Rules: Design Submission and Finalist Selection:

1. All teams that wish to compete to be chosen as finalists must submit their proposed float design along with a brief, two sentence description of their float by 4:00 pm on Thursday, October 3 to RH 227.

2. An objective panel of judges will choose the seven best-qualifies float designs without knowledge of which team submitted each design. The seven finalists will be announced on Wednesday, October 9th on the Homecoming website (homecoming.sc.edu)

3. If your organization is not selected as one of the seven finalists, you can still earn 75 participation points for providing your own trailer and building a float during the designated float build times at the Greene Street Intramural fields.

4. Any organization can walk in the parade and carry a banner to receive 75 participation points.

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5. Designs for floats should reflect South Carolina spirit and the 2013 Homecoming theme “United States of Carolina”.

6. The seven finalists’ floats will be judged on the basis on creativity, aesthetic appeal, and commitment to the theme and spirit.

Float Building:

1. Float building will take place at designated times on the evenings of Wednesday, October 30, Thursday, October 31, and the afternoon of Friday, November 1 on the Greene Street Intramural fields. Homecoming Commission officials will oversee these periods of float building.

2. Float construction can only occur during the designated float building times; this includes but is not limited to pre-pomping, pre-built materials, or painting. When in doubt, consult the Homecoming Commission officials.

3. The Homecoming commission will provide the trailers to the seven organizations selected as finalists for the parade, but all other materials for the floats must be provided by each organization.

4. Any noteworthy changes from the submitted float designs must be approved with the Homecoming Commission and the Director of Rules and Regulations before being built into an organization’s float.

5. Floats may not exceed 14 feet in height from the ground and 22 feet in length. 6. All floats must meet safety regulations and a fire extinguisher must be on or

near the float during the parade (in the truck is acceptable) 7. All Floats must be completed by the end of the final building period on

Friday, November 1. It is recommended by the Homecoming Commission to cover the float with tarps or tents in the event of rain.

8. Organizations are responsible for cleaning up their float build space. The organization’s Homecoming representative must inform the Homecoming Commission when their site is clean, and either the Parade Director or the Director of Rules and Regulations will inspect the site and sign each organization out. Organizations who fail to sign out will be disqualified from the parade and penalized 100 points in the point competition.

9. All organizations will be allowed a maximum of 40 persons at the float building location. Individuals from the organization will sign-in upon arrival to the Greene Street fields to ensure that no more than 40 individuals per team are present.

10. All members of an organization participating in the float building must arrive 20 minutes before the start of the float build for check-in. Members that arrive less than 20 minutes before the start of the event will not be admitted.

11. Organization members will be allowed to leave the float build location at any time. However, once a member exits the Greene Street Intramural fields they will NOT be able to re-enter.

Parade Day and Competition:

1. Float lineup begins at 2:15 pm on Friday, November 1 at the Greene Street Intramural fields. Each organization’s Homecoming representative

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must sign-in with the Parade Director. 2. All members must report to their floats by 2:15 pm for parade line-up.

Any organization that does not arrive by 2:15 pm for line-up will be unable to participate in the parade.

3. An objective panel of judges will review the floats during the parade route. The results of the float-building competition will be announced at half time of the football game.

4. The speed limit of the parade is 5 miles per hour. This speed should be maintained throughout the parade. At this speed participants should be able to walk comfortably with their floats. Floats may not stop at any points, including the Horseshoe unless directed to do so by the Homecoming Commission or law enforcement.

5. Floats must complete the entire parade route. Any floats that exit the parade before completing the entire route will be disqualified from the competition.

6. Floats may only be pulled by motor vehicles 7. No one is allowed to stand on the float while in motion. 8. Animals are NOT permitted in the parade. 9. No candy is permitted during the parade 10. Organizations must cleanup their float immediately after the parade

and drop the trailers off at the appropriate place, as specified by the event director. 100 points will be deducted from any organization that fails to do so.

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Step Show Friday, November 1

7:00 pm Carolina Coliseum

Event Director: Nishikwa Mellerson

About: The Step Show showcases the performance abilities of the University’s multicultural fraternities and sororities. The NPHC organizations design an 8-10 minute step and stroll that they perform in front of a crowd of over 4,000 student, alumni, faculty, and community members. In past years, the Step Show has been hosted by renowned comedians and entertainers that provide additional entertainment to the audience throughout the show. This years’ host will be announced closer to the time of the event. Important Dates:

1. Friday, September 20 a. Registration Packets and all attached application materials must be

submitted to Russell House 227 by 4:00 pm b. Last Day to sign the contract for participation – The signed contract

must be submitted to RH 227 by 4:00 pm. 2. Friday, October 18

a. Organizations must submit music for the Step Show routine to RH 227 by 4:00 pm.

b. Organizations must submit their VIP list to RH 227 by 4:00 pm c. Organizations must submit their backstage pass list to RH 227 by 4:00

pm.

Points Allocation: 1. Participation: 50 points 2. Competition:

a. First Place: 200 points (for the winning male and female team) b. Second Place: 150 points (for the winning male and female team)

3. Deductions: Deductions will be taken from the average score in the event of misconduct, indecencies and vulgarities.

a. Nudity: 2 points will be deducted per occurrence. b. Profanity: 2 points will be deducted for every profane word used by a

participant during the show AND/OR in the music. c. Time Limit: 2 points will be deducted for every minute the

performance exceeds the 10 minute time limits. d. 2 points will be deducted from a team for missing either of the check-

in meetings at 4:30 pm and 6:00 pm on Friday, November 1. VIP Rules:

1. Organizations have the option to pre-purchase tickets for persons on their VIP list from Homecoming prior to the week of ticket sales. The maximum

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number of tickets for purchase will be determined after all participation contracts have been received.

2. Pre-sale tickets will cost $10 per ticket. 3. All pre-sold tickets must be paid for BEFORE they are given to teams. 4. Organizations are responsible for the distribution of tickets purchased. 5. Tickets purchased from the Homecoming Commission are non-refundable. 6. Students on the VIP list still have the option to obtain a free student ticket

from the box office during the week of ticket sales. 7. If an organization decides not to purchase tickets for VIP members in

advance, the Homecoming Commission is NOT RESPONSIBLE for securing tickets for the team’s VIP members.

8. Homecoming Commission will not reserve student tickets for students on the VIP list. If a student does not wish to purchase a ticket in advance they are responsible for getting their own free student ticket during the week of ticket sales.

9. All VIP members will be given a wristband the night of the Step Show that will allow them access to the floor area of the Coliseum.

10. VIP members are not permitted on the stage or backstage at ANY TIME. Only people on the backstage pass list are allowed to go back to the team dressing rooms etc.

Rules:

1. All teams planning to participate in the Step Show must sign a contract of participation by Friday, September 20 at 4:00 pm. Teams that do not sign the contract will not be allowed to participate in the Step Show. There is no registration fee, but registration packets need to be turned in no later than Friday, September 20, 2013.

2. A breach of any of the terms outlined in the contract of participation will result in disqualification from the Step Show

3. All teams must report to the Carolina Coliseum Friday, November 1 for check-in at 4:30 pm. There will be a mandatory meeting at 4:30 pm and at 6:00 pm in the Carolina Coliseum Conference room. There will be a 2-point deduction taken from a team’s average performance score for arriving late to either meeting.

4. Rehearsal time will start on November 1 at 2:00 pm and will conclude promptly at 4:30 pm. Teams who arrive on time will be allotted 15 minutes to rehearse their performance on the Coliseum stage.

5. If a team member is deemed by at least 5 judges to be acting in a grossly unsportsmanlike manner (i.e. causing a disruption to the show), his/her team will be penalized for the individual’s indecent conduct (see deductions under point allocations above).

6. All teams will be financially responsible for any damages assessed to their respective dressing rooms or team props not removed from the Coliseum.

7. Teams are responsible for cleaning up after their performance and will be fined for not doing so (i.e. leaving glitter on stage, leaving props behind stage etc.)

8. Undergraduate, graduate and mixed (undergraduate and graduate) teams are eligible to participate.

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9. Each team will have a total 8 – 10 minutes to perform: this includes both the introduction and exit steps. 2 points will be deducted from the total score for every minute a team’s performance exceeds the 10-minute time allotment.

10. Each team must have all music pre-cued on one CD. Videos can be used and should be provided on one DVD. All music needs to be submitted to Allison Toney in Russell House 227 by Friday, October 18 at 4:00 pm.

11. Members not with the participating organization or local council other than those specified to perform and two other individuals from the organization (designated on the backstage past list) may not be back stage or on stage at ANY TIME during the show. NO EXCEPTIONS.

12. Anyone found attempting to sneak people, alcohol, drugs or other contraband into the show will have their team forfeited from the competition and will be removed from the premises.

13. The decision of the judges is final. 14. The judging criteria for Step Show will be as follows:

a. Introduction: 10% i. This category rates each team on their set design, costume

originality, and overall stage presence. b. Synchronization and Precision: 25%

i. This category scores each team on the synchronization of the steps as well as how precisely they execute each step.

c. Difficulty of Steps: 25% i. Each team should display a level of complexity in their steps

that shows a high level of skill. d. Professionalism: 15%

i. It is expected that each team display good sportsmanship, decorum, and respect towards other teams. Teams will be deducted points for any indecent conduct.

e. Creativity and Originality: 20% i. The theme of each should be fully developed and all aspects of

the show should be related to the theme. f. Exit: 5%

15. Judges must write out the reason for any deductions so that the organization knows why they received said deduction.

16. The Homecoming Commission reserves the right to deduct points from an organization’s overall performance score for any misconduct witnessed outside of the performance.

17. In the event of a tie, the Creativity/Originality score will be used to choose the winner. All judge’s decisions are final.

Wristband Information: Additional wristband information will be available closer to the time of the event.

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T-shirt Information Pick-up on Monday, October 28

11:00 am – 2:00 pm (During Kick-Off) Greene Street

**More T-shirt information will be available at a later date**

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T-Shirt Order Form

ORGANIZATION:

ORDER INFORMATION

Number of T-Shirts:

____________

@ $10.00 per T-shirt

Total Amount:

$____________ Account #:

Fund #: ___________________________

** If paying with a University account please indicate account number and fund number**

T-SHIRT INFORMATION Please specific the number of each size t-shirt needed. Organizations are responsible for t-shirt distribution to members.

_______Small

_______Medium

_______Large

_______X-Large

_______XX-Large

_______XXX-Large

_______TOTAL NUMBER OF T-SHIRTS On behalf of our organization, we certify that all provided information is accurate.

SIGNATURE

X

PRESIDENT’S SIGNATURE DATE