You are viewing the archive of a past Homecoming website. View information about upcoming Homecoming events.

Homecoming 2004: It's Reality | Oct 16-23

goldy on tv

Homecoming 2004... It's Reality

Over the past 86 years, the University of Minnesota has sustained a strong homecoming tradition which continues October 16-23, 2004 with a celebration of school spirit and reality television!

We invite the campus community, particularly student organizations to participate in homecoming festivities. Whether it’s challenging your fears in group sports competitions, or testing your talents in the Gopher Idol competition, or trading spaces with fellow residence halls, there’s plenty of diverse opportunities for your group to shine!

Page Contents:

  1. Executive Committe Contacts
  2. Organization Types
  3. General Competition Guidelines
  4. Pre-Competition Dates & Obligations
  5. Competition Rules & Regulations
    1. Banner
    2. Cheer
    3. Sports
    4. Lip Sync
    5. Spirit
    6. Community Spirit
    7. Parade
      1. Police Regulations
      2. Fire Regulations
    8. House Fronts
    9. Float
  6. Royalty Info & Registration

Homecoming 2004 Executive Committee

Co-CoordinatorAbby Johnstonjohn6220@umn.edu
Co-CoordinatorJess Mann mann0176@umn.edu
Greek Co-ChairMandy Brownhagl0051@umn.edu
Greek Co-ChairNate Duossduos0001@umn.edu
Residence Life ChairScott Hoaghoag0016@umn.edu
Campus and CommunityDana Beasleybeas0018@umn.edu
Parade Co-ChairCorey Coonencoon0061@umn.edu
Parade Co-ChairRaya Jewelljewe0041@umn.edu
Awards/Scoring/JudgingMackenzie Landbloomland0296@umn.edu
Royalty Co-ChairRyan Splawskispla0008@umn.edu
Royalty Co-ChairNicole Flynnflyn0097@umn.edu
Pepfest/Bonfire Co-ChairMeg McCannmcca0476@umn.edu
Pepfest/Bonfire Co-ChairNicolle Richertrich0670@umn.edu
Residence Life AdvisorsKayte Gannongann012@umn.edu
 Missy Westerengcolli373@umn.edu
AdvisorJay Arcuribane0027@umn.edu
Back to Top...

Organization Types

Participation in Homecoming Competition

All University of Minnesota-Twin Cities registered student organizations are eligible and welcome to compete in Homecoming competitions. Organizations may compete in the overall competition, or in one or more individual events that make up the overall competition. These events include sports, lip-sync, cheer, house-front/float, banner, and royalty. Each event is described in detail throughout this rulebook.

Division Guidelines are listed below. All divisions are eligible to participate in either the overall competition or individual events. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Homecoming competition, please contact Abby Johnston or Jess Mann, Homecoming Co-Coordinators.

Competition Divisions

  1. Campus and Community: You are in the Campus and Community divisions if… Your group is a registered student organization. All student organizations must be registered with the student activities office
  2. Greek: You are in the Greek Division if… All of the organizations in the pairing are an IFC or Pan-Hellenic Council Member
    All pairings will be decided through the official IFC/PHC bidding process “Latching On” will only be allowed once consent has been given by those fraternities and sororities involved in the pairing and approved by IFC/PHC
  3. Residence Hall: You are in the Residence Hall if… You are a University of Minnesota-Twin Cities residence hall or student apartment building associated with Housing and Residential Life
THIS PERTAINS TO BOTH INDIVIDUAL AND OVERALL COMPETITION
Back to Top...

General Competition Guidelines

  1. The 2004 U of MN Homecoming theme is “Homecoming 2004...It’s Reality.”
  2. Lip Sync, Cheer, Floats, House Fronts and Banner design should coincide with organizations’ individual themes.
  3. Unruly behavior or intoxicated team members WILL NOT be tolerated. If any member of an organization participating in Homecoming is intoxicated or acts inappropriately during ANY event, the organization will be DISQUALIFIED from that event.
    • Organizations will not receive any warnings.
    • Being disqualified from events results in the forfeit of your deposit, provided the event required a deposit.
    • If disqualified from an event an organization will receive zero points for that particular event.
    • Aside from disqualification, organizations could face University sanctions.
    • If disqualification arises due to inappropriate behavior or alcohol related activities, organizations may be under review for participation in future campus-wide events (Homecoming and Spring Jam).
  4. The Overall Homecoming Committee reserves the right to disqualify any inappropriate designs/performances. Any performance found to be in bad taste will be disqualified and all points for that event will be taken away. The Overall Committee will determine what is inappropriate. This includes the use of political propaganda, profanity, and nudity.
  5. Teams disqualified from more than one event will not be allowed to participate in remaining competitions. In this situation, NO REFUNDS will be available.
  6. The Overall Committee reserves the right to deny any organization (s) entry into the Homecoming Competition due to previous infractions or current ineligibility.
  7. All participants in any competition must show a valid U of MN student ID and sign the athletic release waiver at each event.
  8. ALL DECISIONS MADE BY THE OVERALL COMMITTEE ARE FINAL.
  9. RULES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT THE DISCRETION OF THE OVERALL COMMITTEE.
  10. Campus and Community groups will be allowed to miss one competition if they are participating in the overall competition. Missing more than one competition will result in disqualification from the overall competition. Greek pairings and Residence Halls are not allowed to miss any competitions if participating in the overall Competition
  11. Campus and Community groups will be allowed to pair with each other to participate in overall competition for Homecoming 2004. If two or more groups pair together each must still pay the $150 registration fee for overall competition.
Back to Top...

Pre-Homecoming Dates and Obligations

Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2004*Registration Packets Available*
Sunday, Sept. 19, 2004Mandatory Registration Meeting
6:00pm, CMU Theater
Thursday, Sept. 23, 2004Mandatory Cheer Clinic
7pm, Field House
Wednesday, Oct. 6, 2004Registration and Fees Due
4pm, SAO, 126 CMU
Thursday, Oct. 7, 2004Residence Hall Checks, 5:30pm
Greek Checks, Approx. 7pm
Back to Top...

Registration

Homecoming Schedule of Events   Tentative and Subject to Change

Financial Breakdown

(please link to finance info as part of the registration packet).

Back to Top...

Competition Rules and Regulations

Competition Contents

  1. Banner
  2. Cheer
  3. Sports
  4. Lip Sync
  5. Spirit
  6. Community Spirit
  7. Parade
    1. Police Regulations
    2. Fire Regulations
Back to Top...

Banner 90 points

All banners will be judged on Tuesday, October 19th from 11am-2pm, CMU 303. All banners must be delivered by 10am.

  1. Rules
    • Banner distributed by the Homecoming Executive Committee are to be used for display by each participating organization
    • Maximum banner size cannot exceed 10’ x 4’ and must be constructed of flame resistant materials
    • Banners must be constructed horizontally
    • Organizations name must not be taller than 18 inches
    • Individuals organization sponsors are prohibited on the banners
    • Flag will be judged on criteria in seven categories
  2. The Scoring Criteria
    • Artistry– This category measures the level of artistry displayed in the flag-10 pts
    • Detail– This category measures the level of detail displayed in the flag– 10 pts
    • Creativity– This category measures the level of uniqueness that is present in the flag– 10 pts
    • Color– This category measures the overall use of color that is present in the flag– 10 pts
    • Appeal– This category measured how much the flag catches the eye-10 pts
    • Presentation– This category measures the overall quality of the flag-10pts
    • Theme– This category measures how well the Homecoming 2004 theme is used in the flag as well as the individual pairing theme– 20 pts
    • The top organizations or pairings will receive the following points awarded to their overall score
    • 1st place receives 200 pts
    • 2nd place receives 150 pts
    • 3rd place receives 100 pts
  3. Deductions
    • Disqualification– Failure to cooperate with the policies and procedures
    • 10 Point Deduction– Inappropriate designs and/or content.
    • 10 Point Deduction– Group fails to deliver banner by 10am.
    • 20 point Deduction– Group fails to pick up banner at conclusion of Banner judging.
Back to Competition Guidelines

Cheer 130 pts

  1. Rules
    • Each organization (s) is allowed 8-12 participants . Participants must be an even number of males and females, and must be a member of the organization competing. In addition, at least one chapter member from each pairing or student organization (if paired) must participate.
    • Must use the theme “Homecoming 2004...It’s Reality” and the individual theme.
    • Total time limit is 2 minutes, 30 seconds. 1 minute of music must accompany each organizations cheer. This music may be used at any time to accompany to any signs, cheers or stunts. The organization is responsible for providing a person to cue the selection. Examples of cheer uniforms will be submitted at checks for approval as well as a CD of music to the Homecoming Executive Committee.
    • Cheer will be performed outdoors
    • The script is judged as cheer, not rap, musical, or short skit. Emphasis will be placed on pertinence, movement, spirit, costumes, and creativity.
    • Rules will be followed according to the Spirit Rulebook which can be picked up at the SA office
    • One representative from each organization’s (chapter, residence hall, or student organization) cheer team must attend the Cheerleading Clinic held by the University of Minnesota’s Cheer Team, in order to create a fair competition using official cheer rules and regulations. Thursday, September 23rd, 7pm-9pm at the Field House.
    • No midriff can be shown. If skirts are worn, bloomers are mandatory.
    • The use of alcohol by participants/team during the competition, checks and cheer clinic will result in the disqualification of the organization
  2. Scoring Criteria
    1. Cheer routine: 40 pts
      • Technical Stunt
      • Routine
    2. Costume and Stage Presence: 20 pts
      • Costumes
      • Stages
    3. Overall/Homecoming: 40 pts
      • Presentation
      • Theme
    4. Music: 30 pts
      • Originality
      • Quality
  3. The top three organizations or pairings will receive the following points awarded to their overall score
    • 1st place receives 200 pts
    • 2nd place receives 150 pts
    • 3rd place receives 100 pts
  4. Deductions
    • Disqualification– Failure to clean off the stage after your performance.
    • Disqualification– Failure to cooperate with the Executive Committee when requested, for example, not changing music or costumes if inappropriate.
    • Disqualification– Failure to show up for a performance.
    • 2 point deduction per day– Failure to meet deadlines set by the Executive Committee.
    • 10 Point deduction– Time limit violation.
    • 10 point deduction– Inappropriate language, signs, stunts, or gestures used on the stage.
    • 10 point deduction-Missing mandatory cheer clinic on Thursday, September 23, 2004, 7PM, Fieldhouse.
Back to Competition Guidelines

All Sports Competition 200 points

Sports for this years’ Homecoming will be Flag Football and Volleyball.

Flag Football (both preliminary and final) will be played on Saturday, October 16, 2004, from 10—4pm, Bierman Rec Sports fields.
    pdf document Download the Flag Football Rules (PDF Document)

Volleyball (both preliminary and final) will be played on Sunday, October 17, 2004, from 10—6pm, Cooke Hall courts.
    pdf document Download the Volleyball Rules (PDF Document)

The top three organizations or pairings will receive the following points awarded to their overall score:

  • 1st place receives 200 points
  • 2nd place receives 150 points
  • 3rd place receives 100 points

The two different sports will be scored separately, however the overall points and award will be based on performance in football and volleyball combined.

Brackets and Schedules can be found on the following pages:

Notes:

***In the event of a tie (two organizations place first in one event and second in the other) both will receive 1st place and 200 points. Second place will be skipped over and the following team will be awarded with 3rd place and 100 points

***Official rules will be available at the Mandatory Information Meeting on Sunday, September 19, 2004, 6PM, CMU Theater or via the web at www.homecoming.umn.edu.

Back to Competition Guidelines

Lip Sync 100 pts

Event begins promptly at 7:00 pm at Northrop Auditorium. Order will be randomly determined by the executive committee.

  1. Rules
    • Each organization (s) is allowed 6-12 participants
    • All Lip Syncs must be between 3 and 7 minutes in length. (No limit on the number of songs that the organization may perform.) Music must be turned into the Homecoming Committee the night of “checks”.
    • Lip Sync will be judged as a Lip Sync, not a dance competition.
    • All performers must be in attendance by 6:15 pm for registration. Performance times will be decided by random drawing the day of the event. Event begins at 7:00 pm sharp.
    • Each competing organization has 3 minutes to get set up and 3 minutes to take down any props that they might utilize for the performance.
    • For safety reasons, all participants must wear shoes and be dressed appropriately (no nudity).
    • Any performance deemed inappropriate by the judges/homecoming executive director may cause for the organization’s dismissal from the event and even from the Overall Competition.
    • Performers must stay with their organization while waiting to perform.
    • The stage must be left in the same condition as it was found. In the performance you may use props but all props must be taken off the stage at the end of the performance. Props cannot be stored at Northrup before or after your performance.
    • The use of alcohol by participants/team members during the competition will result in the disqualification of that organization.
  2. Scoring Criteria
    Originality/Creativity: 30 pts
    The design category is broken down into three sub-categories, each worth 10 pts.
    • Props: This category measures the overall quality and creativity of the props used in the skit.
      **Any liquid or glitter-like material will not be allowed because of potential safety hazards**
    • Costumes: This category measures the overall quality and creativity of the costumes used in the Lip Sync.
    • Themes: How well the Homecoming 2004 theme is used in the Lip Sync as well as the individual pairing theme
    • Choreography: 20 pts
    • Partner work/ Team work: This category measures performance of teamwork. Lip Sync is a team event and all members of the team should be moving/ Lip Syncing at all times.
  3. Lip Sync: 30 pts
    This category is broken down into three sub-categories, each worth 10 pts
    • Attitude: This category measures the attitude of the performers on the stage.
    • Accuracy: This category measures the quality and presentation of the Lip Sync.
    • Well-blended:This category measures how well the music is mixed. The music should have smooth transitions from one song to the next. Choppy music is not easy to lip sync or listen to.
    • Audience Response: 20 pts
    This category measures the overall quality of the entire presentation, as well as the overall entertainment value of the group.
    The top three organizations or pairings will receive the following points awarded to their overall score.
    • 1st place receives 200 points
    • 2nd place receives 150 points
    • 3rd place receives 100 points
  4. Deductions
    Lip Sync Point Deductions
    • Disqualification– Failure to clean off the stage after your performance.
    • Disqualification– Failure to cooperate with the Executive Committee, for example, not changing the skit content if inappropriate.
    • 2 point deduction per day– Failure to meet deadlines set by the Homecoming Executive Committee.
    • 10 point deduction– Time limit violation, unsportsmanlike conduct either backstage or in the audience (inappropriate use of noisemakers and air horns).
    • 10 point deduction– Not fully cleaning backstage area after performance.
    • Maximum of 15 points deducted for members of organizations leaving the Lip Sync Competition early.
    • Disqualification– Failure to show up for a performance.
    • Disqualification– Use of alcohol or inappropriate behavior at any time before, during or after the Lip Sync performance.
Back to Competition Guidelines

Spirit Points: Maximum of 600 points

Your organization can win up to 600 spirit points by the various events throughout the week. Below is a list of all possible spirit points and a definition of how they can be earned.

  • Accountability: 100 points
    This category measures how often your organization or pairing helps set up or tear down the various events throughout the week. This includes Residence Hall Day staging setup and tear down and PepFest staging setup and tear down.
  • Sportsmanship: 100 points
    The category measures how much respect you show towards other organizations throughout the week at the following events: Lip Sync, Cheer, and the Sports Competition).
  • Creativity: 100 points
    This category measures how creative your organization or pairing is with its theme in relation to the overall theme: “Homecoming 2004...It’s Reality.” This category also measures the cheer that is used to publicize your organization or pairing throughout the week of Homecoming. Organization’s chants and t-shirts are ways to show creativity.
  • Participation: 100 points
    This category measures the attendance of your organization or pairing at Homecoming events throughout the week as a percentage of your overall membership. The category also measures your organization or pairings visibility and enthusiasm at events throughout the week. Artificial noise will not be counted as enthusiasm during the week of Homecoming.

Participation is broken into three categories: required events, major events, and supporting events. They will be weighted as follow:

  • Required events: 30% or 90 points
  • Major events: 20% or 60 points
  • Supporting Events: 50% or 150points

The following events are required events:

  • Lip Sync
  • Cheer Competition
  • Sports finals
  • Pepfest/Bonfire
  • Homecoming Checks

The following are major events:

  • Sports Prelims
  • Kickoff Day
  • Banner Judging

The following are supporting events:

  • Drive-in movie
  • Res Life Day
  • Blood Drive
  • Service/Philanthropy

Deductions

  • Alcohol at any event or obnoxious behavior will result in a loss of spirit points for the day the incident occurred.
  • Poor sportsmanship toward other organizations will result in the loss of ALL spirit points for the day the incident occurred
  • Loss of 5 pts/day for missed deadlines
Back to Competition Guidelines

Community Spirit: 300 points

  1. University YMCA “Subs-N-Tubs” 100 points The students, faculty and staff of the University of Minnesota will work with the University YMCA to help solve the problem of hunger in Minneapolis and St. Paul communities. This event will take place Thursday, October 21, 2004, from 11am-1pm at the Washington Avenue Pedestrian Bridge, East Bank.
    Rules and scoring: Greek pairing: The percentage of people in the pairing purchasing subs will determine the points received: example: 25% of pairing purchasing subs will earn pairing 25 points. The % will be based on the total number of members registered with IFC, PHC, and NPHC. Numbers will be taken from then the official roster. Residence Halls/ Student Organizations:The number of people from each organization purchasing subs will determine the points received
    • 100+ People    100 points
    • 75-99 People    75 points
    • 50-74 People    50 points
    • 0-50 People    25 points
  2. St. Paul Service Project This event will be held on Thursday, October 21, 2004 on the St. Paul campus. Points will be awarded as described above. More information of specific detail will be given at you organizational meetings.
    Rules and Scoring: Greek Pairing– 100 points will be awarded to each pairing with a minimum of 30% participation. The % will be based on the total number of members registered with IFC, PHC, and NPHC. Numbers will be taken from then the official roster. Residence Halls– 100 points will be awarded to each Residence Hall for participating. Campus Community Groups– 100 points will be awarded to a student group for participating.
  3. Royalty Participation: 50 points Homecoming Court members will receive 50 points for their organization. A maximum of 200 points will be awarded to all organizations participating in Homecoming 2004.
  4. Banner Hanging: 50 points
    Each Res. Hall, Greek Pairing, and Campus and Community Group will receive 50 bonus points if their banner is completed and visible on the night of “checks.”
  5. Blood Drive
    Each participant receives one point, for donating/volunteering, one point will be deducted if they do not show up.
Back to Competition Guidelines

Parade Information

The following information is provided to assist your Float Chairperson (s) in competing in a safe and problem -free parade. Your cooperation in following these guidelines is essential to the success of this year's parade. Any questions should be directed to the Parade Coordinators, Corey Coonen and Raya Jewell.

  1. Entrance into the staging area is at the intersection of 5th Ave and 2nd Street SE. You will be directed where to go after you report to the registration table.
  2. The parade route begins at the intersection of 11th Ave and University Ave SE, and ends at the intersection of University Ave SE and Oak Street.
  3. The parade begins at 10:00 am on Saturday October 23, 2004.
  4. Each float will be checked for alcohol. There will be University Police on hand to check all entries. If groups are found with alcohol, they may face consequences from the University and UMPD. All entries found with alcohol will be disqualified from the parade competition and if you are a University student organization you will be disqualified from the Overall Homecoming competition. NO EXCEPTIONS.
  5. NO SMOKING is permitted ON THE FLOATS or in the staging area, before or during the parade. There will be a smoking area across the street from the staging area. A 10-point deduction will be assessed from final scores each infraction.
  6. Any float, walking entry, banner or presentation that stops along the parade route will receive one warning. Your presentation may do its routine as long as it keeps moving. You will be directed by the Homecoming Executive Committee to briefly stop in front of the Emcee stand for announcement.
  7. Any float, walking entry, banner or presentation that fails to complete the parade route will be disqualified from the competition.
  8. Absolutely nothing may be thrown from the floats during the parade. Any entry caught throwing from floats will be removed from and disqualified from the parade and not permitted to enter the 2005 Homecoming parade.
  9. Each float must be equipped with safety chains and quick-links at all times. This equipment MUST be present at check in. Also, the drivers must have a clear view through the windows and clear access to the door. Any group who does not have this equipment will not be allowed to enter the parade.
  10. With the restricted lane width and height of the staging area on 2nd Street and the closeness to the trees bordering the road in mind, you MUST adhere to float size requirements or you will not participate in the parade.
  11. Failure to report to the registration table at the specified time on the line-up notice will result in point DEDUCTIONS. Please see the Float section for specific deductions.
  12. Any float that is found unsafe by the Parade Coordinators or the University Police will NOT be permitted to participate.

An investment in a rain tarp is suggested in the event that it rains while floats are in the staging area.

Back to Competition Guidelines

Police Regulations on Floats

  1. A 5lb ABC (min 2A/10BC rating) fire extinguisher required for each float. Fire extinguisher MUST be present at time of inspection.
  2. Electrical appliances must be powered by generator or battery.
  3. Wiring connections are secure and safe. No open splices or frayed wiring.
  4. Generators must be uncovered and not placed within 3’ of combustible materials
    Generators shall not be placed in enclosed spaces/vehicles. (Example: A hatchback vehicle with the hatch open is not an approved location for a gas-powered generator).
  5. All heat sources (lights, etc.) are located away from combustible materials.
  6. Safety chains are affixed to float.
  7. Individuals riding on the float are situated in a secure location.
  8. No open flames are permitted on floats or towing vehicles.
  9. Pyrotechnic devices are not permitted in any form without written approval by University officials and must be presented at time of registration.
Back to Competition Guidelines

Fire Regulations on Floats

During Homecoming week, many houses build shelters in the yard areas to protect the float as well as provide security for the float. Some of these shelters create a fire hazard, not only for the occupants working inside, but to those in the house. Any shelter that is attached to any house needs to be built of fire resistant materials. Tarps, tents or other membrane need to be labeled or stamped as approved for fire resistance. Care needs to be taken with the use of flammable liquids as well. A properly illuminated egress path needs to be maintained any time the shelter is occupied. At least one 5lb ABC fire extinguisher needs to be displayed near the exit of all tents. Tents that are at least 15 feet from the structure do not need to be flame resistant

Back to Competition Guidelines

House Fronts: 200 points

I. Rules
  1. All entries must be drawn to scale and submitted for approval of the Parade Coordinators. Drawings must include: a) accurate details of the front, b) top and side views, c) mechanical drawings of all moving parts, and d) accurate electrical drawings. Drawings are due with final registration on Wednesday, October 6, 2004.
  2. Any major changes must be resubmitted and approved by Parade Coordinators and the Homecoming Executive Director.
  3. All items used for decoration must be noncombustible.
  4. Wood scaffolding will NOT be permitted. Wood decking secured to construction grade scaffolding is permitted. Only construction grade scaffolding is permitted.
    Scaffolding Criteria:
    Scaffolding must have adjustable footing so that all units can be leveled.
    Individual scaffolding can NOT exceed two tiers in height.
    Multiple units, not over three tiers in height, may be separated up to six feet if they are secured at the upper portion of the unit.
    Multiple units, properly secured and anchored, can NOT exceed six tiers in height.
    Scaffolding must be slightly canted to the rear when supporting excessive props. No more than three degrees of cant is permitted.
  5. No cellular plastic (i.e. Styrofoam or urethane) is allowed for decoration material.
  6. Woven fabric material is permitted if it is fire proof.
  7. Construction of House Fronts shall be done outside whenever possible, excluding light framing.
  8. All paints used for decorations must be water-based. Water-based paints are acceptable substitutes for fire proofed materials and paints.
  9. All electrical circuits must be ground faulted. Ground faults must originate outside of the house. All circuits must conform to the National Electrical Code and be suited to the weather anticipated.
  10. Mechanical devices powered by humans are permitted when adequate safety measures are provided. The person (s) must be provided with an emergency exit. If the mechanical device and person (s) are elevated, proper derailing guardrails must be provided.
  11. Movements may be done by mechanical means or by manual labor as long as it conforms to the Homecoming Rules and Regulations and is initially approved at the safety meeting and finally approved upon inspection. All mechanical parts (i.e. belts, fans, etc.) must be enclosed.
  12. No one shall be visible on the set during judging.
  13. Smoking on or near the House Front is NOT permitted.
  14. Fronts must be removed by 9 pm on Sunday, October 24, 2004. Failure to remove your front by this time will be grounds for complete disqualification in future competitions.
A. Rules and Regulations - 50 Total Points Possible
  1. Organization (s) name is on the house front – 10 Points
  2. No airbrush work or paper mache is used – 10 Points
  3. Electrical devices are battery or generator powered only. – 10 Points
  4. Electrical devices are uncovered and at least 3 ft. from any combustible items– 10 Points
  5. The house front is safely constructed and secured. – 10 Points
B. Quality of Construction - 70 Total Points
  1. Does the house front look complete? 15 Points
  2. Does the house front utilize the space effectively? 15 Points
  3. Does the house front look professional? 20 Points
    Are the decorating materials used consistently?
    Do the structures on the house front appear stable?
  4. Is the design and color scheme used effectively so that the house front is eye catching and appealing? 20 Points
    Do house front colors match?
C. Originality and Creativity 65 Total Points
  1. Does the house front relate to the group theme? 20 Points
  2. Is the house front original, unique and clever? 20 Points
  3. Does the house front promote U of M spirit? 15 Points
  4. Is the house front in good taste? 10 Points
II. Deductions
  • 10 point deduction for any sketch not turned in during final registration (for University student organizations) on Wednesday, October 6, 2004 in 126 CMU.
  • 10 point deduction for any float that has not complied with the safety regulations at time of inspection (Wednesday, October 20, 2004, Time-TBD)
  • 10 point deduction if organization does not follow scaffolding regulations.
  • 10 point deduction each time organizations do more than superficial repairs the morning of judging.
  • 20 point deduction if you do not comply with the fire regulations page 3

Important Dates for both House Fronts and Floats:
Preliminary Sketches due with registration on Wednesday, October 6, 2004 in the SAO, 126 CMU.
Safety Inspections will take place on Wednesday, October 20, 2004. Time is TBD.

Any questions concerning House Fronts should be directed to the Parade Coordinators, Corey Coonen (coon0061@umn.edu) and Raya Jewell (jewe0041@umn.edu).

Back to Competition Guidelines

Float Competition: 200 POINTS

Judging will take place prior to the parade on Saturday, October 23, 2004.

I. Rules
  1. Due at the time you register (deadline for University student organizations is Wednesday, October 6, 2004), you must provide a preliminary sketch of your 1st theme choice. This will help eliminate repetition during the parade.
  2. Floats must report to the parade check-in table at your designated check-in time. 30 points will be deducted if you are late. If organizations are more than 10 minutes late, organizations will be disqualified and WILL NOT participate in the parade.
  3. Floats must be complete upon arrival at the staging area for check -in. There will be a 10-point deduction each time organizations do more than superficial repairs. (i.e. minor surface level repairs, which do not require the use of heavy tools or power equipment)
  4. UMPD strictly prohibits anything being thrown from the floats.
  5. Organization (s) name must appear on the float.
  6. Organizations cannot use paper mache or air brush during float construction.
  7. Float dimensions must NOT exceed 8ft wide x 45ft long x 15 ft high.
  8. Floats must be pulled by a horse or motor vehicle.
  9. Float order will be determined at randomly by the Parade Coordinators.
  10. Smoking is NOT PERMITTED on or near floats at any time.
  11. One person must be with your float at all times while in the staging area.
  12. DO NOT VANDALIZE. Any organization (s) caught vandalizing WILL BE DISQUALIFIED from the overall competition.
  13. All safety equipment must be present at check-in, at the staging area while waiting for the start of the parade, and throughout the parade, or organizations will be disqualified.
  14. Each tow vehicle must contain a portable 5 lb fire extinguisher with the rating of 2A, 10B:C and be readily available to the operator.
  15. Generators must be placed on the tow vehicle and must be capable of providing the needed electrical service. Each generator must contain a minimum of two electrical outlets.
  16. All paints used for decoration must be water-based and acceptable substitutes for fireproof materials and paints.
  17. All floats must have a 42” railing must be placed to the outside of all riders.
  18. Floats must proceed at a minimum speed of 3 mph and a maximum speed of 5 mph.
  19. Any float deemed unsafe or inappropriate by the Parade Coordinators or University of Minnesota Police will be removed from the parade and disqualified from the competition.

Any questions concerning House Fronts should be directed to the Parade Coordinators, Corey Coonen (coon0061@umn.edu) and Raya Jewell (jewe0041@umn.edu).

II. Scoring Criteria A. Rules and Regulations - 70 Total Points Possible
  1. Organization(s) name is on the float – 10 Points
  2. The float meets size regulations – 10 Points
  3. No airbrush work or paper mache is used – 5 Points
  4. Float is pulled by a motor vehicle or horse only – 5 Points
  5. Electrical devices are battery or generator powered only. – 5 Points
  6. Electrical devices are uncovered and at least 3 ft. from any combustible items– 10 Points
  7. The float is safely constructed and contents are secured. – 10 Points
  8. The safety equipment (fire extinguisher, safety chains, reflector, etc.) is present at check-in. – 15 Points
B. Quality of Construction - 65 Total Points
  1. Does the float look complete? 15 Points
  2. Does the float utilize the flatbed space effectively? 10 Points
  3. Does the float look professional? 20 Points
    • Are the decorating materials used consistently?
    • Do the structures on the float appear stable?
  4. Is the design and color scheme used effectively so that the float is eye-catching and appealing? 20 Points
    • Does the float have moving parts, lights, or entertaining people on board to enhance the effect?
    • Do the float’s colors match?
C. Originality and Creativity 65 Total Points
  1. Does the float relate to the group theme? 20 Points
  2. Is the float original, unique and clever? 20 Points
  3. Does the float promote U of M spirit? 15 Points
  4. Is the float in good taste? 10 Points
III. Deductions
  • 10 point deduction for any sketch not turned in during final registration (for University student organizations) on Wednesday, October 6, 2004 in 126 CMU.
  • 10 point deduction for any float that has not complied with the safety regulations at time of inspection (Wednesday, October 20, 2004, Time-TBD)
  • 10 point deduction if organization does not follow scaffolding regulations.
  • 10 point deduction each time organizations do more than superficial repairs the morning of judging.
  • 20 point deduction if you do not comply with the fire regulations page 3
Back to Competition Guidelines
Back to Top...

Royalty

Are you fired up? Do you wanna get real? If you are, then you are just what Royalty 2004 is looking for! We are looking for the most enthusiastic, high-spirited, dedicated, and yes, real Gophers to don this year's coveted crown and tiara ... and it could be YOU! Just fill out this application and turn it into the Student Activities Office (SAO) main desk in Coffman Memorial Union with the $25 application fee by 4pm on Monday, October 11. Selected candidates will be notified on Wednesday, October 13 by 9am. if they are chosen to move onto the second round of the selection process. So, if you think you are the strongest link, fill out application and turn it in. Because, frankly, you just might be hired!

What We're Looking For

We're looking for only the most enthusiastic, high-spirited, goal-oriented, involved, and academic individuals to apply for this position. Ideal candidates must also exhibit leadership skills and posses the ability to work well within a team setting. Please note that we want individuals that will respectfully represent the University of Minnesota during Homecoming week.

Royalty Selection Timeline

Monday, Oct. 11: Applications due with $25 fee, unofficial transcript, and essay
Wednesaday, Oct. 13: Second Round notification
Pick up buttons to sell
Sign up for group interviews
Thursday, Oct. 14 (evening)
and Friday, Oct. 15:
Group interviews in SAO Conference Room
Sunday, Oct. 17: 10am Royalty Notification
7pm Royalty Meeting
Monday, Oct. 18: 11am-Noon Body Graffiti Contest
Tuesday, Oct. 19: 5pm Cow Milking Contest , St. Paul Dairy Barn
Wednesday, Oct. 20: 8:30-11:30am Volunteer Event at AIDS Health Care Partners in Uptown.
12:30pm-1pm: Res. Hall Contest - Rock Wall Climbing
6pm Suprise Royalty Event, Dinner at Annies
7:30pm Gopher Idol Competition
Thursday, Oct. 21: 9am-4pm Royalty Formal Interviews, Coffman, Campus Club
Friday, Oct. 22: 7:30pm Pepfest and Coronation, River Flats
Saturday, Oct. 23: 10am Parade, University Avenue
1pm Football Game vs. Illinois, HHH Metrodome

Royalty Judging and Scoring

Throughout the royalty candidate selection process, each candidate will be rewarded points for completing each assignment and event. We will maintain a running tally of these points throughout the selection process. These records will be made available to all candidates. Please note that the below points tallied during Homecoming week will constitute 75 percent of the overall score. The other 25 percent will come from student online polling.

Pre-Homecoming Week Homecoming Week
Event Points Event Points
Royalty Profile Short Answer Body Graffiti
Individual Motivation 5 Participation 1
Campus Involvement 5 Attitude 1
Academic Success 5 Winning male/female 3
Sincerity 5 Total 5
Overall Character 5 Cow Milking
Total 25 Participation 1
Essay Attitude 1
Content 5 Winning male/female 3
Structure 5 Total 5
Grammar 5 Res. Hall Contest
Incorporation of Theme 5 Participation 1
Diversity 5 Attitude 1
Total 25 Winning male/female 3
Royalty Profile Total 50 Total 5
Button Sales Blood Drive *
For every 5 sold (can sell up to 2 bags of 5 total) 5 Participation 1
Total (maximum) 10 Volunteer/Donation (either) 2
Group Interview Total 3
Teamwork 10 Formal Interview
Leadership 10 Sincerity 10
Attitude 5 Individual Motivation 10
Total 25 Overall Character 10
Total 30
Week Total (maximum) 85 Week Total (maximum) ** 50

* The Blood Drive is not a required event, but this event contains more points possible than any other extra event. Candidates are encouraged to attend.

** During Homecoming week, candidates may obtain an extra point by attending and participating in these events: Drive-In Movie, Lip-Sync, and Service Project. Candidates may only obtain points from two of these three options.

Online Polling and Campaigning

During the week of Homecoming, students will have the opportunity to vote online for their favorite royalty candidate (both male and female). Online polling will factor into the overall score for royalty candidates (25 percent). Thus, the top 10 royalty candidates (the Homecoming Court) will be able to campaign for themselves. However, there are rules and guidelines that must be followed.

Candidates can...
  • Make posters, signs, and/or banners for personal promotional purposes.
  • Hand out flyers, buttons, or brochures for personal promotional purposes.
  • Encourage students to vote online.
Candidates cannot...
  • Campaign against other candidates. This is a fun contest, so lets keep it clean.
  • Send out mass e-mails to students (other than personal friends).
  • Take out personal advertisements (via Hey You ads, ads in general, or articles) in student publications such as the Minnesota Daily or the Wake.
  • Host events outside of regulated Homecoming activities for personal promotion that would involve illegal or inappropriate behavior (i.e. illegal substances, underage consumption of alcohol).

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the 2004 Royalty Coordinators:

Ryan Splawski
612-237-1999
Nicole Flynn
612-220-1977
Back to Top...