Welcome to the 2026 Owlympics

Join the Battle. Compete for Glory.
Prepare your squad and enter the galaxy’s ultimate employee showdown. The 2026 Owlympics is Kennesaw State University’s high-energy team competition where faculty and staff come together for a morning of fun, teamwork, spirit, and friendly rivalry. Inspired by an epic Star Wars-style universe, this year’s event will transport participants into an intergalactic battle filled with exciting games, themed team spirit, and unforgettable moments.

Whether you are competing for the championship title or just coming for the laughs, there’s something for everyone at Owlympics.

Download your registration packet now

What is Owlympics?

Owlympics is one of KSU Human Resources’ most anticipated Employee Appreciation events of the year. Teams compete in a series of fast-paced games and challenges designed to promote teamwork, engagement, campus spirit, and connection across the university community.

Expect:

  • Team-based competitive games
  • High-energy music and entertainment
  • Themed costumes and spirit wear
  • Friendly campus rivalry
  • Photo-worthy moments
  • Bragging rights and championship recognition


Competitive play is encouraged, but good sportsmanship is essential. The event is built around fun, collaboration, and creating lasting memories with coworkers across KSU.

This Year’s Theme: Star Wars

owl carrying light saber flying through space.

This year, the Force is strong at Owlympics. Teams are encouraged to embrace the sci-fi spirit with coordinated outfits, creative team names, themed accessories, and energetic spirit squads. Whether your team channels heroic rebels, galactic explorers, cosmic commanders, or mysterious space travelers, the goal is to bring the energy, creativity, and fun. May the Force be with your team.

Planning a team? Here is what you need to know!

Teams consist of:

  • 7 team members
  • 1 optional alternate
  • All participants must be KSU faculty or staff members.

Registration Deadline
Thursday, July 2, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.

  • Only the first 18 completed teams will secure an official roster spot.
  • Teams 19–21 will serve as alternate teams.
  • Team captains must submit the following in ONE PDF file:
    • Completed registration form
    • Memorandum of Understanding form
    • Signed liability waivers for all participants (wet signature or Docusign)
All forms must be submitted together (pdf) in a single email to HREvents@kennesaw.edu  

Teams are encouraged to:

  • Dress alike
  • Create themed team identities
  • Bring spirit squads to cheer them on
  • Embrace the Star Wars-inspired atmosphere


Spirit squads are welcome and encouraged to help create an exciting event experience for everyone.

Ready to Join the Battle?

Gather your crew, create your team name, and prepare for an unforgettable morning of intergalactic fun.

Download your Registration Packet Now

Pre-Game Challenges & Bonus Point Opportunities

Earn Extra Points Before the Games Begin
The battle begins before game day.

Leading up to the 2026 Owlympics, teams will have several opportunities to earn bonus points toward their final score through spirit, creativity, and community impact. Participation in these challenges can give your team the competitive edge needed to rise to the top of the leaderboard.

Teams are encouraged to fully embrace this year’s Star Wars-inspired Owlympics theme by dressing in coordinated sci-fi attire on event day.

Ideas include:

  • Coordinated team shirts
  • Galactic color schemes
  • Space-inspired accessories
  • Futuristic costumes
  • Team-themed character concepts
  • Creative team entrances and spirit items

Teams that arrive dressed in theme and showing exceptional team spirit will earn:
⭐ 1 Bonus Point

Show off your team spirit and compete for bonus points before Owlympics even begins.

How to Participate

  • Record a 1-minute cheer video
  • Video must be in landscape orientation
  • Include at least three team members
  • Videos should be workplace appropriate
  • Email your video to Human Resources

Submission Deadline
📅 Friday, July 10, 2026 by 5:00 p.m.

Voting Competition
All submitted videos will be posted on the HR website for a campus-wide vote.

🗳 Voting Dates:
Wednesday, July 15 – Tuesday, July 21, 2026 by 5:00 p.m.

The team whose video receives the most votes by the end of the competition will earn:
⭐ 1  Bonus Point