April 23, 2026

Ferris State Bulldogs fans can meet players and pose with championship trophies following Saturday’s celebration parade

Ferris State University football fans will have the chance to meet players and coaches and pose with NCAA DII National Championship trophies at the conclusion of Saturday’s National Championship celebration parade.

The university is partnering with the city of Big Rapids and the Downtown Business Association for the celebration, with kicks off at noon with a parade running from the south to north, starting at the Big Rapids Public Library and ending near city hall. Explore Big Rapids and the Mecosta County Visitors Bureau are sponsors.

Members of Ferris State’s national championship team will be featured in the parade along with other university student-athletes and teams, local fire and police vehicles, and student and community groups.

At the end of the parade route, a special recognition and proclamation ceremony will take place in front of Horizon Bank in downtown Big Rapids featuring speakers including Big Rapids Mayor Fred Guenther, Ferris State President Bill Pink, Athletic Director Steve Brockelbank, head coach Tony Annese.

Community members will have an opportunity to greet the national championship team, get autographs, take photos with four national championship trophies -- and more.

The downtown area from Maple Street to Pine Street will be closed until the event concludes and local business restaurants and shops will be open.

The Bulldogs captured their fourth NCAA DII National Championship in the past five seasons this past campaign. The Bulldogs concluded the year with a historic 16-0 overall record and beat Harding 42-21 in the national title game on Dec. 20 in McKinney, Texas.

The national championship parade will be part of a "Championship Weekend" in Big Rapids that will also include the Bulldogs' national championship ring ceremony on Friday at 4 p.m. inside Bulldog Arena and the annual Crimson & Gold Spring Game on Friday evening at 7 p.m. weather permitting. All events are free and open to the public.