ABOUT
Niner Nation Week: Homecoming is an action-packed week filled with events and gatherings, culminating with Homecoming Weekend. This annual celebration brings together students, alumni, faculty, staff, families and the Charlotte region to display their Niner pride and celebrate the vibrant campus community.
Throughout the week UNC Charlotte hosts an incredible lineup of activities including community service projects, social events and countless opportunities to showcase your Niner spirit. The pinnacle of Niner Nation Week, Homecoming Weekend, is when the campus community comes together to honor the traditions and history of UNC Charlotte, including recognizing the Niner 9 and awarding the prestigious Golden Niner title to the student who truly exemplifies the spirit of Niner Nation.
During Homecoming, campus transforms into a sea of green, white and gold as 49ers proudly sport their Niner gear. From the thrilling Homecoming football game to the parties, socials and alumni gatherings, the atmosphere is charged with excitement and nostalgia. Niner Nation Week: Homecoming is not just a celebration of our past, but a joyous testament to our bright future.
We invite everyone to be part of the Niner Nation Week: Homecoming festivities to connect with friends, create new memories and share in the pride that unites us all as members of Niner Nation. GO NINERS!!
History of Homecoming
The tradition of Homecoming began in the United States in the early 20th century as a way for colleges and universities to welcome back alumni and celebrate their achievements. UNC Charlotte adopted this tradition in conjunction with a holiday celebration in 1952, and over the years it has continued to evolve into a beloved annual celebration bringing the entire Niner community together.
UNC Charlotte’s inaugural Homecoming basketball game was on February 15, 1969, when the Charlotte 49ers triumphed over the UNC Greensboro Spartans. At this game, UNC Charlotte crowned its first Homecoming Queen, Jackie Haney (pictured below). The celebration was the start of a tradition that would grow in significance every year.
In fall of 2013, the Charlotte 49ers launched their football program in Jerry Richardson Stadium. That same year on October 11, UNC Charlotte officially moved Homecoming to align with football and festivities included social events, tailgating and campus-wide celebrations. The first football homecoming game marked a special milestone for the university, bringing together the Niner community in celebration of this significant addition to UNC Charlotte’s athletic program. Homecoming has continued to gain popularity and includes recognition of the Niner 9 and announcement of The Golden Niner who best exemplifies the spirit of Niner Nation.
Niner Nation Week: Homecoming 2023 is the inaugural season for the Charlotte 49ers in the American Athletic Conference. As UNC Charlotte continues to grow and thrive, the tradition of Homecoming will undoubtedly continue to evolve, leaving a lasting legacy of unity, pride and celebration of all that makes Niner Nation truly extraordinary.
Take a trip down memory lane and flip through some archived Homecoming photos.