Marshall Athletics has embarked on an exciting initiative designed to deepen the bond between the university and its community through the “This Home Is Herd” campaign. Spearheaded by Jarrod Hunley, Marshall’s Director of Marketing and Fan Engagement, this program serves as a rallying call for fans to visually express their support for Marshall Athletics. By encouraging fans to place yard signs in their front yards, the campaign aims to reinforce the presence of Marshall pride throughout Huntington and beyond.
The “This Home Is Herd” initiative is not just about placing signs; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging and community spirit. For Hunley, who has personal ties to the area, this initiative holds significant meaning. He understands the importance of local engagement and how it reflects the identity of the university. “Coming from this community myself, ‘This Home is Herd’ is a special initiative I believe all Marshall faithful should take part in,” he stated. His enthusiasm sets the tone for what this campaign represents—a collective effort to showcase pride in the university and its athletic programs.
The campaign is now in its second year, and its roots have already begun to take hold in the community. Fans are encouraged to pick up their yard signs from various locations, making it easy for everyone to participate. The convenience of multiple pickup points, such as the United Bank branches located at 2889 Third Ave. and 517 Ninth St. in Huntington, as well as the Marshall Athletics Ticket Office, ensures that no one misses the opportunity to join in. Additionally, the sign distribution is backed by United Bank, a partner that is equally invested in the success of the campaign.
Once fans have their yard signs proudly displayed, they can engage further by scanning the QR code attached to the sign. This simple action allows them to register their home as an official “This Home is Herd” location. This registration not only enhances community visibility for Marshall Athletics but also opens the door to exciting incentives. By participating in the initiative, fans become eligible to win an array of prizes, thereby adding an element of fun to their involvement.
The prizes offered are enticing and designed to foster even greater excitement among fans. One of the standout rewards is the chance to receive basketball tickets delivered directly to the winners’ homes by members of the basketball teams and coaches. This personal touch underscores the commitment of Marshall Athletics to its fans, creating a memorable experience that extends beyond just attending games. The chance to meet the players and coaches in a more intimate setting adds a layer of connection that many fans cherish.
In addition to the ticket delivery, the prizes also include signed basketballs from both the men’s and women’s basketball coaches, Corny Jackson and Juli Fulks, respectively. These collectibles serve as a tangible reminder of the fans’ loyalty and the shared journey of supporting the teams. The significance of such memorabilia cannot be understated, as they often become cherished items that fans treasure for years to come.
The campaign also offers unique experiences related to other sports. Fans have the chance to win four tickets to the Mountain State Derby, an exciting men’s soccer match against rival West Virginia University. Such matchups not only foster healthy competition but also serve to unify the community as fans rally together to support their teams. Additionally, the opportunity to win season tickets for Marshall Baseball provides further incentive for sports enthusiasts to engage with multiple athletic programs at the university.
Perhaps one of the most exclusive prizes is the framed custom Marshall Football jersey, which stands as a symbol of pride and allegiance. For many fans, owning a piece of memorabilia like this transcends the physical object; it becomes a representation of their unwavering support for the university and its athletic endeavors. This jersey can serve as a focal point in a fan’s home, sparking conversations and memories of great games and moments shared with friends and family.
The “This Home Is Herd” initiative not only aims to engage current fans but also seeks to attract new supporters. By making it easy and rewarding for people to show their support, Marshall Athletics is building a larger, more vibrant community around its programs. Each yard sign acts as a beacon of pride, signaling to passersby the love and loyalty that exists for Marshall and its teams. The visual presence of these signs can inspire others to learn more about Marshall Athletics and consider becoming part of the fan base.
Furthermore, the campaign taps into a larger cultural phenomenon where community pride is often expressed through local sports affiliations. The signs are not just indicators of support; they are manifestations of identity. In a world where communities often seek connection and belonging, Marshall’s initiative plays a vital role in nurturing that sense of unity among fans.
As the initiative gains traction, it is likely to encourage more interactions between fans and the university. This can lead to increased attendance at games, heightened engagement on social media, and a more robust atmosphere at athletic events. The sense of belonging fostered by the “This Home Is Herd” campaign reinforces the idea that supporting Marshall Athletics is a collective experience, one that transcends individual attendance at games and extends into everyday life.
Hunley’s vision for the campaign aligns with the overarching goals of Marshall Athletics to not only enhance the fan experience but to create a legacy of community engagement. As the campaign progresses, it serves as a reminder that sports have the power to bring people together, to foster relationships, and to create lasting memories.
In conclusion, “This Home Is Herd” is more than just a campaign; it is a celebration of community, pride, and loyalty. By encouraging fans to display their support through yard signs, Marshall Athletics is taking a proactive approach to deepen its connections with the community. The incentives offered, including personal interactions with players and exclusive prizes, enhance the overall experience for fans, making participation all the more appealing. As the campaign continues to unfold, it has the potential to leave a lasting impact on both the university and the community it serves. Marshall Athletics is not just inviting fans to cheer; it is inviting them to become an integral part of the Herd’s journey, reinforcing that together, they are stronger. Whether through a yard sign in the front yard or a passionate cheer in the stands, the spirit of Marshall will resonate throughout Huntington and beyond.
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