January 8, 2026

Campus and community invited to Monday’s Bulldog Spirit Day to celebrate football and volleyball teams’ successes

After shining on the national stage, Ferris State University’s football and volleyball players will get a hero’s welcome back home on campus on Monday.

The university is calling on the entire community to come together in celebration as Jan. 12, 2026 is declared “Bulldog Spirit Day.”

The campus-wide and community celebration will honor the Ferris State football team’s fourth national championship and the volleyball team’s continued postseason success.

Community members are warmly invited to join Ferris State students and employees from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 12, at the David L. Eisler Center, 805 Campus Drive, for a high-energy event filled with Bulldog pride.

Those attending Bulldog Spirit Day will have the chance to take photos with the National Championship trophy, the volleyball team’s trophy, meet Ferris State student-athletes, watch the cheer and STUNT team perform, hear remarks from university leaders, enjoy snacks, and experience other fun surprises as part of the celebration.

Championship t-shirts and stickers will be available while they last.

The football team capped an unforgettable season with a dominant victory in the NCAA Division II National Championship, finishing undefeated and ranked No. 1 in the nation.

With the win, the Bulldogs brought the championship trophy home to Big Rapids for the fourth time in five years.

The volleyball team also delivered an outstanding postseason run, earning the NCAA Division II Midwest Regional Title and advancing to the Elite Eight for the second consecutive year—another remarkable achievement for the program.

Ferris State President Bill Pink officially proclaimed Jan. 12 as Bulldog Spirit Day and encourages all students, employees, alumni, and community members to proudly wear their Ferris State apparel.

Bulldog pride stretches far beyond Big Rapids, with alumni and supporters across Michigan, the nation, and around the globe. Alumni are encouraged to join the celebration by posting photos in their Bulldog gear on social media and tagging Ferris State.

And the celebration doesn’t stop there—plans are already underway for a victory parade this spring.