The snowstorm came and went, but it doesn’t seem like the Govs got enough of the ice, as the Ford Ice Center was full of Austin Peay State University students Friday, Feb. 6, for the Student Life and Engagement department’s “Skating into the Semester” event, an event the Govs look forward to every semester.

For this semester, the Govs were provided with APSU merchandise, and our school mascot — the Governor — made an appearance skating on the ice. Students were laughing, gliding and, for some new to ice skating, holding onto buckets to keep their footing.

APSU sophomore Thomas Frasson says it’s an event worth going to with great opportunities to meet new people.

“Events like these are useful to create a sense of community between the students. Being surrounded by fellow govs makes everything better. I can feel the camaraderie between us even though we don’t know each other.”

Thomas says this event was a great way to start the semester, and he looks forward to growing as a student, learning new things and meeting new people. For many Govs, events like “Skating into the Semester” offer more than just a night on the ice; they provide a chance to unwind, connect and step into the new term feeling supported.

As students skated laps, shared laughs and cheered one another on, the Ford Ice Center became more than just a rink; it became a space where community took center ice. With the semester now underway, the event served as a reminder that, while classes may bring challenges, APSU continues to create moments for students to come together, make memories and start the term on a high note.