Texas Tech University

Texas Tech Traditions

Texas Tech Traditions

Spirit Program

The Spirit Squads lead the fans in supporting the teams at football, basketball, and volleyball games. They serve as ambassadors not only at athletic events, but also at many different school functions. In addition, the Spirit Squads gladly participate in their community by volunteering at local schools, charity events, and youth organi zations. Being a proud part of the Texas Tech Spirit Program is more than just a year-round commitment. It means dedication from each member to maintain the school spirit of the students, the alumni, and the fans. The Spirit Program members' take pride in knowing that they are an essential part of such a wonderful tradition!

 

Co-Ed Cheer | All-Girl Cheer | Pom Squad

Goin' Band from Raiderland

The Goin' Band from Raiderland is a 400-plus member marching band that was established in 1925. Being the oldest student organization on campus, we are proud to uphold the traditions of Texas Tech University while embracing an environment of innovation and creativity. Located in Lubbock, Texas, Texas Tech University has an enrollment of over 30,000 students and 400 plus of those students participate in Goin' Band. Membership is open to all students regardless of major and a minimum amount of rehearsal time is used in preparing four different shows per season. A mixture of "traditional" and "corps" style techniques are used in these performances. As the 1999 Sudler Trophy Recipient, we promise to strive for honor and excellence through every encounter, rehearsal and performance.

Saddle Tramps

Saddle Tramps is the all-male Spirit Student Organization that is dedicated to bringing spirit to Texas Tech University. The Saddle Tramps attend all men's sporting events and support events around the university year-round. The history of Saddle Tramps is rooted in tradition and a desire to serve the University. Members of Saddle Tramps are eligible to tryout for Raider Red.

High Riders

High Riders is a women's Spirit Student Organization dedicated to promoting and supporting Texas Tech women's athletics by upholding the principles of Service, Spirit, Leadership, Tradition and Sisterhood. High Rider members are eligible to tryout for Raider Red.

Homecoming

Homecoming is an exciting week full of activities for Texas Tech students. Such activities include a bonfire, parade, float competitions, open houses, award programs, and of course the homecoming football game. Another favorite event, which has been around since 1954, is the election of the homecoming king and queen.

Masked Rider

Masked Rider serves as Texas Tech's official mascot and has become one of Tech's most striking icons. Each year, the student rider and horse, Fearless Champion, make hundreds of appearances to promote Texas Tech spirit and goodwill at athletic events, rodeos, parades, and other functions.

Raider Red

Raider Red is Texas Tech's costumed mascot. Raider Red serves as a public relations mascot who shakes hands with the crowds at athletic events and poses for pictures. Raider Red was selected as the Capital One 2012 National Mascot of the Year. He attends football games, men's & women's basketball, women's volleyball, as well as men's baseball. You can also find Raider Red making appearances at women's tennis matches, softball games, and around the Lubbock community. Students serving as Raider Red must be members of Saddle Tramps or High Riders.

The Matador Song

The writing of Texas Tech's alma mater was the result of a contest. The school newspaper, then called The Toreador, sponsored the contest and offered $25 to the winner. R.C. Marshall, who was the 1931 “La Ventana” editor, was deemed to have written the best song. With exception of Harry LeMaire's (the Goin' Band's director from 1926-1934) 1931 re-write of the music to The Matador Song, it has remained the same.

Music by Harry LeMaire, words by R.C. Marshall

The Fight Song

The “Fight Song” was written by Carroll McMath and updates the Matadors, Tech's original name for the athletic teams, to the Red Raiders. The song is sung at many of Tech's sporting events.

See More Texas Tech History & Traditions

Texas Tech Spirit Program