PLAINVIEW, TX — Wayland Baptist University invites the public to celebrate Homecoming on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026, with the Athletics Hall of Honor ceremony, a complimentary cookout, family tailgate activities, and a football game against Arkansas Baptist College.
The Pioneers take the field at 4 p.m. at Greg Sherwood Memorial Bulldog Stadium, 24th and Yonkers streets, as Homecoming returns to the fall.
“We want the entire community to join us for Homecoming Saturday,” said Jeffrey Vera, Director of Alumni Relations and Career Services. “From recognizing outstanding Pioneers to gathering for food and football, this is a day for alumni, families, and friends to celebrate together.”
The day begins with the Athletics Hall of Honor ceremony at 9 a.m. in the Learning Resources Center atrium. The public is invited, with limited seating available.
The 2026 inductees are Chelsey Driskill Souza, volleyball, 2012-2015; Brian Whitlock, cross country and track and field coach, 2004-2011 and 2015-2022 麻豆APP; Marina Gallegos, women’s golf, 2014-2018; Edward “Eddie” Taragon, cross country and track and field, 2009-2012; and Eddie Allen, baseball, 2007-2011.
Gallegos will become the first women’s golfer inducted into Wayland’s Athletics Hall of Honor. Taragon, a six-time NAIA All-American who returned to competition after major heart surgery, will be inducted posthumously. The class also includes a four-time All-Sooner Athletic Conference volleyball selection, a coach whose teams won five NAIA national championships, and a four-year starting shortstop who ranks among the program’s baseball leaders.
Pioneers at the Grill begins at 11 a.m. in front of Gates Hall on the Plainview campus. Sponsored by PCI, the cookout will offer complimentary food on a first come, first served basis, while supplies last. Alumni, students, faculty, staff, families, and residents from throughout the South Plains region are welcome.
Fans also can support Wayland volleyball against John Brown University at noon in Hutcherson Center.
The Pioneer Tailgate Takeover will run from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Wayland student organizations will offer games, face painting, crowd signs, and other activities to help families get ready for kickoff. Food trucks scheduled to participate include Shady’s BBQ, Chop Chop, Kenosis, Yellow Duck, and Boys Jerky.
“You do not have to be a Wayland graduate to enjoy the celebration,” Vera said. “Bring your family, wear your blue and gold, and help us cheer on the Pioneers.”
For the full Homecoming schedule and registration links, visit https://bit.ly/3W7A4bo.
