10/03/14
Once upon a time in Tigerland, five princesses and five princes competed to be Queen and King.

Ten finalists for Fort Hays State University's 2014 Homecoming court (the Homecoming theme is "Once upon a time in Tigerland") were announced Oct. 2 at a Homecoming press conference after nearly 700 students voted in the preliminary election.

"This year we had 35 candidates nominated for royalty, representing 20 different student organizations," said Jacob Ternes, Homecoming Committee chair. "It was an extremely close race."

The Homecoming court is listed in the pairs in which they will appear at homecoming events. The queen candidate is listed first.

Erica Skiles and Tre Giles are sponsored by VIP Student Ambassadors. Skiles, Sedgwick junior, daughter of Randy and Linda Skiles, is majoring in nursing. Giles, Colorado Springs, Colo., senior, son of Tammy Giles, is majoring in organizational leadership.

Arin Powers is sponsored by the Student Government Association and Dylan Hogan is sponsored by the University Activities Board. Powers, Mooreland, Okla., junior, daughter of Larry and Rena Powers, is majoring in business management. Hogan, Winfield senior, son of Jzohn and Angie Hogan, is majoring in computer science.

Jade Singleton-Reich and Brandon Taylor are sponsored by Tigers4Ever. Singleton-Reich, Denver, Colo., junior, daughter of Patrick Reich and Maegan Singleton, is majoring in nursing. Taylor, Greensburg senior, son of Kenton and Nancy Taylor, is majoring in business management.

Brenna Briggs and Jared Helfrich are sponsored by the Catholic Disciples. Briggs, Dodge City junior, daughter of Justin and Tracee Briggs, is majoring in elementary education. Helfrich, Dodge City senior, son of Brian and Kate Helfrich, is majoring in agricultural business.

Kaylie Towles and Trevor Henningsen are sponsored by Stripes for St. Jude. Towles, Wichita junior, daughter of Oliver Towles and Amy Johnson, is majoring in nursing. Henningsen, Hays senior, son of Russ and Sandra Henningsen, plans a career in organizational leadership.

Students will vote for the King and Queen online through Tiger[Link] on Wednesday, Oct. 8, and Thursday, Oct. 9.

King and Queen will be announced during halftime on Saturday, Oct. 11, when the Tigers take on the Griffons of Western Missouri. Kick-off is 7 p.m.