2013 Homecoming at Johnson College wrapped up with the Men’s Basketball team getting its first win in a new sports league, while playing in an updated gym with a new mascot cheering them on.
The Johnson College Men’s Jaguars beat Christendom College from Virginia 56-37 Friday night during its first ever NJCAA basketball league game and home game of the season. This game was the first one played in the Jaguars’ new “den” after the College renovated it’s gym by painting the walls, sanding and repainting the floor in the school’s new colors, and adding it’s new logos to the pads at both ends.
Earlier in the week, Johnson College’s homecoming kicked off early Thursday morning with WNEP-TV’s Ryan Leckey unveiling their new mascot “Johnny the Jaguar” to the public during “Leckey Live.” Johnny was the senior class gift for 2013 which is why his number will always be 13. “You can catch Johnny at more than just our sporting events,” says student life director Sarah Williams, “He’ll be at all events on campus where we can help promote school spirit!” Johnny was hand made by BAM! Mascots in Canada. He was custom built for Johnson College. Students will get to “be” Johnny through an audition process each year.
The Men’s Basketball Team also challenged former alumni to take the court against them following their league game.
Feed-a-friend donations were accepted in-lieu of tickets for admission to all events, including Friday night’s basketball games.
Outside in the parking lot of the Moffat Gym, huge crowds gathered all night for five area food trucks invited to campus to feed visitors including Drinker Mobile from Dunmore, Muncheeze from Montrose, Captain Don’s Chilly Willy from Scranton, Halal Food from Scranton, and The Picnic Stand Food Truck from Clarks Summit. Tania from Halal Food in Scranton was really excited that the college welcomed so many local food vendors to campus for the night, “We’re so thankful for what they are doing for the community. It’s really great!” 7 year-old Garrett Robinson ordered from Muncheeze’s truck from Montrose and agreed the food was great, “It’s the best toasted cheese sandwich I’ve ever had!”
The events wrapped up with a celebration bonfire and pep rally. “This event is just another way that Johnson College is reaching out to the greater community and giving back,” said Katie Leonard, Senior VP of Institutional Advancement.