Athletics

Gear up for 2026 Buffs football

Anna Tolette — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 17:36:33 +0000

Gear up for 2026 Buffs football Anna Tolette Wed, 07/08/2026 - 11:36

April Driver

The fall 2026 Buffs football season is approaching, and now is the perfect time to get ready for another exciting season. Whether you're a lifelong fan or cheering on the Buffs for the first time, you can look forward to game-day traditions, unforgettable moments and plenty of opportunities to show your Black and Gold spirit throughout the season.

🏈 2026 �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder football schedule

Get ready to cheer on the Buffs! Check out the official 2026 �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder football schedule. The season kicks off in Atlanta on Sept. 3 against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. The first home game will be Sept. 12 against the Weber State Wildcats. Mark your calendars and purchase your tickets early!

Celebrate away games in style at Buffs Bashes hosted by the Alumni Association. Join fellow Buffs to cheer on the team and show your �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder pride.

⏰ Mark your calendar for Homecoming

Homecoming 2026 falls on Sept. 30–Oct. 3. The weekend offers a chance for alumni and friends to come together to reminisce, reconnect and explore Boulder and the campus as �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder celebrates its 150th anniversary — and cheer on the Buffs.

💃 Be part of Family Weekend

Do you have a student at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder? Family Weekend is for you! Join your student on campus Oct. 15–18 for campus tours, the Pearl Street Stampede, open houses and game day tailgates. On Oct. 17, the Buffs take on the Utah Utes.

🦬 Support Buffs student athletes

The Buff Club raises money to support �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s student athletes across different sports. Help student athletes be their best on and off the field by joining the Buff Club!

Join the Buff Club

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We Did the Planning, You Do the Cheering!

Anna Tolette — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 19:57:54 +0000

We Did the Planning, You Do the Cheering! Anna Tolette Fri, 07/03/2026 - 13:57

Homecoming Weekend 2026

As �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder celebrates its 150th anniversary, there’s no better time to come together as Buffs than this historic Homecoming Weekend. We’ve mapped out all the key events to help you make the most of your return to campus. Here’s everything you need to plan an unforgettable experience filled with tradition, togetherness and �鶹��Ѱ��pride.

The Weekend Itinerary

Wednesday, Sept. 30

Arrive to town early for the sixth-annual Culture Crawl, touring over 20 of �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s array of arts centers, heritage collections and cultural hubs. The event is free and open to the public, so it’s a great way to reconnect with campus before weekend festivities begin.

Thursday, Oct. 1

Stop by Spirit Days | 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

Join the fun at Spirit Days on Farrand Field! Show your �鶹��Ѱ��pride and celebrate campus traditions with free food, Buffs gear and lawn games. It’s a great chance to connect with current students and alumni in the heart of campus. Admission is free, so bring your Buff spirit and come enjoy the festivities!

150th Themed Celebration | 4 p.m.–8 p.m.

Celebrate 150 years of �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder on Norlin Quad! Learn about the history of �鶹��Ѱ��and enjoy an elaborate light show before heading to the Hill for dinner.

Dinner in Boulder

After hours of celebrating, you’re bound to work up an appetite. Check out local favorites near campus, with options for every taste.

Friday, Oct. 2

Take a hike

If you wake up ready for an adventure, slip on your hiking shoes and discover the stunning Flatirons rising from the edge of the Rockies. Boulder is known for its iconic hiking trails. For suggestions, visit this list of 10 scenic hikes near Boulder.

Buffs on Tap | 2:30–6:30 p.m.

Unwind while sampling some of Colorado’s finest beer and wine crafted by �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder alumni with Buffs on Tap at the Koenig Alumni Center. Your $35 early registration or $50 at-the-door ticket includes tastings, food and a commemorative pint glass to remember the occasion. Cheers to good times and great company!

Homecoming Parade and Pep Rally | 7 p.m.

Get in the gameday spirit at the Homecoming Stampede and Pep Rally at 7 p.m. in front of the courthouse. Join fellow Buffs fans for a lively parade and pep rally featuring the Golden Buffs Marching Band, Spirit Squad and Chip.

Saturday, Oct. 3

Homecoming Tailgate | 3 hours before kickoff

Start your game day right and cheer on the Buffs as they face off against the Texas Tech Red Raiders with a fun-filled event featuring music, photo ops, giveaways and more. Concession-style food and drinks will be available for purchase, and while admission is free, registration is required. All ages are welcome!

�鶹��Ѱ��vs. Texas Tech Homecoming game | Time TBD

The moment we’ve all been waiting for! The Colorado Buffaloes take on the Texas Tech Red Raiders at the Homecoming football game. Sko Buffs!

Get your tickets today

Pre-Game Checklist

Mark your calendar! Homecoming Weekend is Sept. 30–Oct 3 in Boulder.
Register for Homecoming
Plan your stay. Reserve a hotel or rental as early as possible; game weekends fill fast.
Tailgate checklist. Think tent, chairs, coolers, tailgate games and of course, your black and gold gear.
Be part of the tradition at Homecoming Weekend, and let’s make it one to remember!

There’s no better time to come together as Buffs than Homecoming Weekend. We’ve mapped out all the key events to help you make the most of your return to campus.

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Save Big After Graduation with Forever Buffs Discounts

Anna Tolette — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 21:16:38 +0000

Save Big After Graduation with Forever Buffs Discounts Anna Tolette Fri, 03/13/2026 - 15:16

Sophia McKeown

Graduating from �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder is more than a diploma — it also comes with perks and discounts. As if there wasn’t enough to be excited about in your post-grad life, here’s a list of some of the awesome deals available to you as a new Forever Buff:

Join ForeverGold for half the price

ForeverGold grants �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder alumni exclusive access to social, athletic and academic opportunities. As a recent grad, you can enjoy the many benefits of ForeverGold such as complimentary drinks at Buff Bashes, discounts for select Alumni Association events and two complimentary tickets to one pre-designated athletic event each season. Alumni 35 years old and younger receive a discounted one-time membership fee of $500 — half the price of regular membership. Register now!

Enjoy free 2026 Homecoming Events

Celebrate your first Homecoming as an alum with free registration for new grads. Homecoming is one of �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s most cherished traditions, bringing together alumni, students, faculty and fans for a weekend of Buffs pride. It’s truly the perfect opportunity to return to Boulder and reconnect with your college friends. Don’t miss out on the chance to attend these fun events for free!

Get 20% off at the �鶹��Ѱ��Book Store

Now that you’re a graduate, you get 20% off one item (excluding Lululemon purchases) at the �鶹��Ѱ��Book Store. At checkout, let them know you’re an alum or use the code Alumni for online orders. Whether you’re stocking up on Buffs gear to show off your school pride, looking for a diploma frame or searching for special alumni merch, this discount has you covered.

Save on your stay at the Hilton Hotels on Canyon

For all those visits back to Boulder, Forever Buffs receive special alumni rates at the Embassy Suites and Hilton Garden Inn. This booking link comes with an embedded discount code so you can enjoy being back in your college town at a lower price!

Take advantage of the Koenig Alumni Center

Planning an event? Forever Buffs get 10% off reservations at the Koenig Alumni Center. The venue is nestled on the corner of CU’s beautiful campus with views of the Flatirons and is perfect for graduation ceremonies, weddings, retreats and many other life celebrations. Make your next special occasion memorable and save some money while you’re at it.

Discounted protection through Liberty Mutual

New grads are eligible for 10–12% off home and auto insurance packages through Liberty Mutual, ensuring you can protect your new investments without breaking the bank. With major life milestones coming up in the years after graduation, it’s good to be prepared. By being a Forever Buff, you have access to great coverage and savings as you transition into your post-grad life.

Make use of the Buffs Business Directory

Last but not least, join the Forever Buffs Network and use the Forever Buffs Business Directory to support �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder alumni-owned businesses and get access to exclusive offerings. The directory showcases a wide variety of businesses owned and operated by fellow Buffs, including local restaurants, retail stores and professional services. Plus, many businesses in the directory offer exclusive deals and promotions to Buffs.

These discounts are just the start of the benefits that come with being a Forever Buff. As a recent grad, don’t forget to make use of these great discounts and special offers.

Update your info to stay informed

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�鶹��Ѱ��Spotlight: Homecoming Spirit Chair Kate Jordan Little

Anna Tolette — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 15:37:42 +0000

�鶹��Ѱ��Spotlight: Homecoming Spirit Chair Kate Jordan Little Anna Tolette Wed, 10/08/2025 - 09:37

Kate Jordan Little is a fourth-generation Buff, making her the 23rd member of her family to attend �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder. A junior from Denver, Colorado, she is pursuing a dual major in management and entrepreneurship and marketing, with a minor in leadership. Her academic distinction sets her apart. She is a U.S. Presidential Scholar and a Boettcher Scholar, complemented by her involvement in the President’s Leadership Class and the Leeds Scholars Program.

Beyond academics, Kate’s commitment extends to campus engagement, including her roles as the New Member Educator and former Foundation Ambassador for Chi Omega, as well as being active in �鶹��Ѱ��Sports Information and competing with Club �鶹��Ѱ��Swimming and Diving. Little currently serves as the Homecoming Coalition Spirit Chair for �鶹��Ѱ��Student Government and is excited for all that is in store for the upcoming Homecoming festivities.

What does �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Homecoming mean to you?

Homecoming means so much to me because it celebrates family and tradition.

I am a fifth-generation Coloradan, a fourth-generation Buff and the 23rd member of my family to attend CU. My parents, sister, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins have all shared this same journey, and we have each felt the magic of being a Buff in our own way.

My grandfather is remembered through the Zack Jordan Award that honors the �鶹��Ѱ��Football Most Valuable Player each year, and my family has never missed a home game.

Homecoming is a time to gather, celebrate the love and pride we all feel for CU, and carry forward a legacy that has shaped my family for generations. It reminds us that �鶹��Ѱ��is not just where we go to school but part of who we are.

What is your favorite part of your role as Homecoming Spirit Chair?

Kate, pictured with her parents and sister, is the baby on the right!

My favorite part of being the Homecoming Chair is seeing people light up with Buff pride. Helping create the parade and pep rally feels meaningful because I know how much joy those moments bring to students, alumni and families. I think about my family filling the stands and how often we have experienced that same excitement together.

Being Spirit Chair is a way of giving back to a community that has been at the center of my life for as long as I can remember. Whenever I see people laughing, singing the fight song, and cheering together in black and gold, I feel connected to something bigger: a �鶹��Ѱ��family we all belong to.

If you had the attention of every Forever Buff for one minute, how would you convince them to attend Homecoming?

I would tell them that Homecoming is not just about events but about being part of a story stretching across generations. It is laughter with friends, the traditions we pass down and the memories we create together.

When you come back for Homecoming, you are not just celebrating a weekend; you are celebrating the pride, the joy and the love that make �鶹��Ѱ��a family. Every voice in the fight song, every smile in the crowd and every cheer from the stands matters.

We are all Buffs, and Homecoming is our chance to remember that and celebrate it shoulder to shoulder.

What is special about Homecoming this year?

Homecoming 2024

This year feels extra special because it focuses on community and connection.

Whether you are a student experiencing your very first Homecoming, an alum returning to the place that shaped you or a Forever Buff family member who has loved �鶹��Ѱ��for decades, there is a place for you here. The parade, the pep rally and the game bring us all together in one place where generations of Buffs can stand side by side and celebrate what we share.

For me, it is not just about carrying forward my family’s traditions; it is about being part of the bigger �鶹��Ѱ��family and knowing that we are all Buffs.

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Top 8 CU-themed Halloween costumes

Anna Tolette — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 20:14:26 +0000

Top 8 CU-themed Halloween costumes Anna Tolette Fri, 09/26/2025 - 14:14

This Homecoming, Buffs on Tap invites �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder alumni to BOO-ze their way through Halloween. And what better way to celebrate than a CU-themed costume contest? Grab your buffalo horns, chill your pint glass and join us from 3 to 6 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 31, at Koenig Alumni Center for a scary good time.

Here are eight costume ideas to conjure your excitement:

Ralphie

They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, so welcome Ralphie VII to the herd by dressing as her! Rock a monochrome brown outfit, then top it with an iconic buffalo headband.

Ralphie Handler

No Ralphie is complete without a handler. Skip the sprinting, but sport a classic black cowboy hat, black button-down shirt, eye-catching belt buckle and blue jeans to channel your inner student-athlete.

Coach Prime

Halloween is Prime Time to wear your flashiest chain, biggest sunglasses and best gameday headset. If you match that with a �鶹��Ѱ��hoodie and hat, you might be stopped on the street for a picture. Don’t forget to give your fans a motivational speech while you’re at it.

Superfan Peggy

Superfan Peggy Coppom never misses a game. Dig in your closet for an oversized �鶹��Ѱ��vintage crewneck, fluffy pom-poms and a gray wig. Bonus points if you wear her signature glasses and a 100th Birthday sash.

Banana Buff

Pay homage to the dedicated students who dress in banana costumes every football game. Wear the silliest banana costume and pair of sunglasses you can find. If you’re lucky, you might just end up on the Jumbotron.

Sleep-Deprived Student

Remember those long nights spent studying in Norlin Library? Sorry to remind you! But for a funny costume, throw on your comfiest sweatpants, mess your hair to make it look like you just rolled out of bed, smudge dark circles under your eyes and tow your old textbooks or a mug of coffee around.

Sporty Buff

Choose your own game plan! Wear your favorite �鶹��Ѱ��jersey and smear on some eye-black to be a football player. Pull that hair into a ponytail, ruffle those pom-poms and practice those high kicks in a classic �鶹��Ѱ��uniform to be a spirit squad member. You could even carry around a custom pair of �鶹��Ѱ��skis while wearing a warm jacket and ski goggles to be one of CU’s nationally ranked student skiers

Brainy Buffs

Dress as your degree! For STEM majors, experiment with wearing a lab coat and carrying a beaker full of a “mysterious potion.” Art majors can draw on a goatee, splatter paint on a black-and-white striped shirt and craft a palette and brush out of paper. A fun money-printed suit would be perfect for business majors. The options are endless!

Whatever you wear, we hope to see you at this year’s Buffs on Tap!

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Top 10 facts about Chip, �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s mascot

Anna Tolette — Fri, 05 Sep 2025 18:11:32 +0000

Top 10 facts about Chip, �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s mascot Anna Tolette Fri, 09/05/2025 - 12:11

Julia MacLean

Chip, �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s beloved buffalo mascot, has been entertaining fans at games and campus events since the 1980s. Known for his playful dancing and quick humor, Chip brings energy and spirit wherever he goes.

Here are 10 fun facts about Chip, the heart of every �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder celebration:

Chip can be found at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder football, basketball, soccer, volleyball and select lacrosse games, as well as at other community, campus and charity events.

Chip and his friends are trained at summer camp to ensure he performs at the highest quality for �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder.

Chip is a part of the University of Colorado Spirit Program, which also includes the dance team and cheer team.

In a normal year, Chip makes anywhere from 300 to 400 appearances. You can request him for an appearance by completing the Spirit Appearance Request Form

The head of the Chip costume is a hockey helmet with foam and steel added to create Chip’s likeness. It weighs somewhere between 7 and 8 pounds.

Chip once conducted an orchestra at Macky Auditorium.

Children who join the Chip Kid’s Club can get a special personalized note on their birthdays from the mascot himself.

Chip has won three first-place Universal Cheerleaders Association National Championships. He took home back-to-back wins in 2009 and 2010, and he most recently won in 2020.

Chip’s birthday is in February.

Chip attends football and basketball media days with the other Big 12 Mascots.

Explore ways to get involved with �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Athletics and support the Buffs.

Join the Buff Club

Chip, �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s beloved buffalo mascot, brings energy and pride to events on and off campus. From game days to cheer competitions, he represents Buffs spirit. Check out 10 fun facts about Chip.

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The ultimate alumni guide to Buffs football 2025

Anna Tolette — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 20:37:02 +0000

The ultimate alumni guide to Buffs football 2025 Anna Tolette Wed, 07/23/2025 - 14:37

Julia MacLean

Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a proud alum or simply love the spirited atmosphere of college football, there’s nothing quite like game day in Boulder. From tailgates at Folsom Field to game watches across the country, �鶹��Ѱ��knows how to turn football weekends into full-blown celebrations. Here’s your all-in-one guide to making the most of the 2025 season — no matter where you’re cheering from.

Plan ahead

Start by checking out the 2025 �鶹��Ѱ��Buffs football schedule and get familiar with the team roster. Get to know our opponents with this Big 12 infographic to see all the conference teams, their mascots and how far each stadium is from Boulder. Whether you’re mapping out your travel plans or scheduling weekends to gather with fellow Buffs, knowing the key matchups is step one to a winning season.

Away game Buffs Bashes

Kick off your game day at a Buffs Bash, CU’s official pregame parties. Hosted in select cities, these spirited events are perfect for any �鶹��Ѱ��football fan. With live music, giveaways, food trucks, drinks and appearances from the Spirit Squad and marching band, there’s no better place to turn up the energy before cheering on the Buffs.

Game watches nationwide

Can’t make it to Boulder? You can still cheer on the Buffs in style. Game watches bring Forever Buffs and �鶹��Ѱ��football fans together wherever they roam. Find an official alumni chapter near you through the �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Alumni Association and cheer on the Buffs with fellow fans. It’s the next best thing to being at Folsom Field.

Connect with fellow Buff fans

Want the latest news, exclusive access to giveaways and a place to talk Buffs football all season long? Join the Forever Buffs Football Fans group on the Forever Buffs Network. It’s your go-to hub for connecting with �鶹��Ѱ��fans near or far.

Pearl Street Stampedes

If you’re in Boulder on a Friday night before a home game, don’t miss the Pearl Street Stampede. This tradition features the Golden Buffalo Marching Band, the Spirit Squad, student-athletes and Chip parading down Pearl Street. Starting at 7 p.m., the parade winds through downtown Boulder and gets the community pumped for the big game.

Homecoming Weekend

Homecoming Weekend is a can’t-miss experience. Mark your calendars for the Homecoming game against Arizona on Nov. 1. Expect a weekend packed with tradition, including tailgates and other festivities. Whether you’re returning to relive old memories or make new ones, Homecoming is a season highlight.

Buffs gear and game day tips

Wear your black and gold, or check out Colorado Buffaloes social media posts for specific game day colors. Be sure to bring layers, as Boulder weather can be unpredictable. You’ll also want to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen. Arrive early if you're going to explore campus or tailgate before kickoff. And take time to learn the �鶹��Ѱ��fight song — it’ll come in handy after touchdowns.

Support the Buffs all season long

No matter how you choose to celebrate, Buffs football is more than just a game. It’s a tradition of pride, community and connection that brings alumni together year after year. Check out ways you can get more involved with �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Athletics.

Sko Buffs!

Join the Buff Club

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Join the club: How to get involved in �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Athletics

Anna Tolette — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 17:44:58 +0000

Join the club: How to get involved in �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Athletics Anna Tolette Fri, 06/20/2025 - 11:44

Julia MacLean

Fall is just around the corner, which means one thing — Buffs football is back! Whether you’re at a tailgate outside Folsom Field or cheering on the team from afar, �鶹��Ѱ��Athletics provides many ways to be a part of the action and show �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder pride.

Join the Buff Club

The Buff Club makes a real impact on student-athletes. Giving through the Buff Club supports scholarships, training facilities and other essentials, while connecting you with other passionate fans. Every contribution counts! While a minimum annual gift of $100 is required to receive exclusive benefits like priority seating and event access, any size gift can help support the success of student athletes.

Sign up for Chip’s Kids Club

Have a future Buff in the family? Enroll your children in a close-up �鶹��Ѱ��Athletics experience through Chip’s Kids Club. Memberships are available for children in eighth grade and younger and include special events, free merchandise and opportunities to meet Chip! Babies up to 24 months are eligible for a Baby Buff Membership, where little ones can deck out in �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder merch and grow up supporting the Buffs. Family fun and �鶹��Ѱ��pride? That’s a win-win!

Join Buffalo Belles and Friends

Looking for a fun, welcoming group of women who love �鶹��Ѱ��Athletics as much as you do? Say hello to the Buffalo Belles and Friends! This spirited crew was founded in the 1970s as the “Ladies Quarterback Club” and has been bringing fans together ever since. Enjoy weekly football luncheons, insider access to �鶹��Ѱ��Athletics and the joy of giving back, with all proceeds supporting the Martha Johnson Scholarship Endowment for student-athletes.

Join the Flatirons Society

Want front-row access to the future of �鶹��Ѱ��Athletics? The Flatirons Society recognizes donors who give $10,000 or more annually to the Buff Club and comes with next-level perks. Think VIP experiences, private events and real influence in shaping the next generation of Buffs!

Attend �鶹��Ѱ��Athletics Events

Supporting the Buffs is all about the full experience. Don’t miss the energy and community of game days at Folsom Field, watch parties hosted in cities worldwide, annual Homecoming festivities and Pearl Street Stampedes, a tradition celebrated every home game weekend with the �鶹��Ѱ��Marching Band, cheer team and Chip!

Join the Buff Club

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Sarah Seibold’s Journey from Figure Skating to Ice Cross

Anna Tolette — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 16:19:01 +0000

Sarah Seibold’s Journey from Figure Skating to Ice Cross Anna Tolette Mon, 04/28/2025 - 10:19

Former figure skater Sarah Seibold (MBusAna’25) and current data analyst for CU’s Office of Information Technology found her calling in the high-adrenaline sport of ice cross, which entails athletes racing down steep, icy tracks. This year, Seibold (pictured above, far right) earned a third-place spot on the podium in the All-Terrain Skate Cross (ATSX) Ice Cross Women’s World Championship, and placed first overall for the U.S. Ice Cross Association (USIX) Cup Series, making her the highest-ranked American Woman Competitor for the 2024-25 season. Sarah is helping pave the way for the sport’s growth — especially for women.

Can you describe ice cross?

Ice cross has been coined ‘the most insane sport that you’ve never heard of.’ It’s basically the same concept as ski or snowboard cross, but on ice skates. Athletes compete four at a time, and the top two move on until you reach the final four.

There are no permanent ice cross tracks because they are difficult to maintain. They’re made a couple of months or weeks before a race, depending on the weather. We’ve done everything from icing over a ski run at a ski resort to competing on a bobsleigh track. We’ve even iced piles of snow in a parking lot.

What inspired you to transition from figure skating to ice cross?

I’ve always been on the more powerful side of figure skating, I wasn’t very dainty or pretty when I would skate. The main difference between the two sports is that figure skating is much more risk-averse, and training is more about control and technique, while ice cross is a little bit crazier. Once I found out that ice cross existed from a rollerblader I follow on social media who competed, I wanted to try it.

How do you prepare for a race?

I start the morning of a race day by stretching. Depending on where the track is and how the ice is, I’ll either have been training or, if I haven’t trained on the track, I’ll do a lot of visualization. Sometimes, we walk the track and figure out where I need to take steps or what foot to put in front of the other at a certain point.

How did it feel to place third overall in the ATSX Ice Cross Women’s World Championship?

It was honestly a little unexpected. I’m pretty consistent at getting fourth place, but it was amazing. It only made me more motivated, and I can’t wait to stand on another podium.

How do you see the sport evolving in the U.S.?

We raced in France this year, and the Olympic committee came to see if we were on track to go to the 2030 Olympics, which we’re waiting to hear back on. If it gets approved, the word will get out, and we can gain a lot more interest.

Right now, ice cross is more marketed towards men. They’re more easily interested because they see videos of a crash or the danger of the sport and think it’s cool. If we want to get more women into the sport, we have to highlight more of the aspects that make it fun.

What advice would you give to young skaters who might be interested in trying ice cross?

Just go for it. Sign up. And reach out to me with questions!

How many hours a week do you train? What does training look like in warm seasons?

I train around 20 hours a week. In the winter, there’s a lot of natural ice on lakes and reservoirs to utilize. In other seasons, I rollerblade, mostly in skate parks, which can simulate the jumps and curves you would find on an ice cross track. Rollerblading is great training because they’re a lot heavier than my hockey skates, which makes ice skating feel easier. The main thing I train for is endurance, just skating for a long time, so my muscles are used to it.

How did you balance training and competing while also pursuing your master’s degree?

Luckily, the business school allows me to get this degree in four years, so I only have to take one class at a time. There have been some difficult weekends where I don’t have cell service, am sitting in a hotel room doing homework or going to class at 3 a.m. because of a time difference, so it’s definitely a challenge, but since it’s only one class, I can make time.

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Learn more about 2025 Commencement speaker Emma Coburn

Anna Tolette — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 17:57:21 +0000

Learn more about 2025 Commencement speaker Emma Coburn Anna Tolette Wed, 04/23/2025 - 11:57

Sophia McKeown

In 2012, while she was still an undergraduate at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder, runner Emma Coburn competed in her first Olympics. Now, over ten years later, Coburn is returning to her alma mater to deliver the commencement speech for the Class of 2025.

As Chancellor Justin Schwartz shared with �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Today, “Emma Coburn is the epitome of a Buff: strong, focused, determined and resilient.”

Here’s more about this year’s commencement speaker:

Coburn grew up in Crested Butte, Colorado, which she claimed was crucial to her athletic development and happiness.

Coburn was the first �鶹��Ѱ��athlete to win an indoor mile title in track and field.

She won the 2011 and 2013 NCAA steeplechase national championships. Her 2013 title race time was the fifth best in NCAA history.

Coburn has competed at three Olympics: London, Rio and Tokyo.

At the 2016 Rio Olympics, Coburn took home bronze, becoming the first American woman to medal in an Olympic steeplechase event. Her race time also established a new American record at the time.

In 2017, Coburn founded the Elk Run 5K in her hometown, Crested Butte, to raise money for community members battling cancer. Since then, the event has raised over $300,000 for a local charity.

Coburn was one of three �鶹��Ѱ��alumni to compete in the 2022 World Athletics Championships in Eugene, Oregon. She placed eighth in the world for the women’s steeplechase.

In 2023, she was inducted into the �鶹��Ѱ��Athletic Hall of Fame.

Coburn is part of a multi-generational Buffs legacy. Her grandfather, William E. Coburn, graduated from �鶹��Ѱ��in 1949.

Her favorite celebratory meal is a steak burrito with spicy green chili and a margarita from the Rio Grande in Boulder.

As a �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder alum, three-time Olympian and proud Coloradan, Coburn embodies the spirit of what it means to be a Forever Buff. With deep roots in the Boulder community and a remarkable journey from �鶹��Ѱ��student to world-class athlete, she brings a powerful message of perseverance, passion and Buffs pride. Don’t miss her at this year’s commencement ceremony as she addresses the next generation of outstanding graduates.

Learn more about commencement.

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Athletics

Gear up for 2026 Buffs football

🏈 2026 �鶹��Ѱ�����Boulder football schedule

⏰ Mark your calendar for Homecoming

💃 Be part of Family Weekend

🦬 Support Buffs student athletes

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We Did the Planning, You Do the Cheering!

Homecoming Weekend 2026

The Weekend Itinerary

Wednesday, Sept. 30

Thursday, Oct. 1

Friday, Oct. 2

Saturday, Oct. 3

Pre-Game Checklist

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Save Big After Graduation with Forever Buffs Discounts

Join ForeverGold for half the price

Enjoy free 2026 Homecoming Events

Get 20% off at the �鶹��Ѱ�����Book Store

Save on your stay at the Hilton Hotels on Canyon

Take advantage of the Koenig Alumni Center

Discounted protection through Liberty Mutual

Make use of the Buffs Business Directory

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�鶹��Ѱ�����Spotlight: Homecoming Spirit Chair Kate Jordan Little

What does �鶹��Ѱ�����Boulder Homecoming mean to you?

What is your favorite part of your role as Homecoming Spirit Chair?

If you had the attention of every Forever Buff for one minute, how would you convince them to attend Homecoming?

What is special about Homecoming this year?

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Support the Buffs all season long

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Join the club: How to get involved in �鶹��Ѱ�����Boulder Athletics

Join the Buff Club

Sign up for Chip’s Kids Club

Join Buffalo Belles and Friends

Join the Flatirons Society

Attend �鶹��Ѱ�����Athletics Events

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Sarah Seibold’s Journey from Figure Skating to Ice Cross

Can you describe ice cross?

What inspired you to transition from figure skating to ice cross?

How do you prepare for a race?

How did it feel to place third overall in the ATSX Ice Cross Women’s World Championship?

How do you see the sport evolving in the U.S.?

What advice would you give to young skaters who might be interested in trying ice cross?

How many hours a week do you train? What does training look like in warm seasons?

How did you balance training and competing while also pursuing your master’s degree?

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Learn more about 2025 Commencement speaker Emma Coburn

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🏈 2026 �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder football schedule

Get 20% off at the �鶹��Ѱ��Book Store

�鶹��Ѱ��Spotlight: Homecoming Spirit Chair Kate Jordan Little

What does �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Homecoming mean to you?

Top 10 facts about Chip, �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s mascot

Join the club: How to get involved in �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Athletics

Attend �鶹��Ѱ��Athletics Events