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ALBANY, GA -- Students filled the Student Center Amphitheater at Albany State University for the official homecoming kick off.

The Student Activities Council picked “Mardi Gras” as their theme, but it was the Student Government Association that took charge on the kickoff event.

ASU students enjoyed performances by the cheerleaders and marching band. There was also a drink mixing booth set up making non-alcoholic refreshments. A pie-eating contest determined who won a prize of free tickets to the homecoming step show.

But students say homecoming week is about more than the fun activities; it’s about school spirit.

“It's homecoming, it's all about alumna, it's all about fellowshipping, we're just trying to have a good time getting ready to beat down Benedict this weekend,” says Jerquanica Fletcher, ASU SGA Vice President.

Albany State’s football team is facing Benedict College this Saturday at 2 p.m.