Tryouts

The Masked Rider has been the official mascot of Texas Tech University since January 1, 1954.  However, the tradition of the Masked Rider is over 60 years old.  The program began in the 1930's with volunteer students who would get dressed in a cape and mask and appear unexpectedly at Texas Tech home football games.  Originally known as "Ghost Riders," the Masked Rider program has since become a prestigious institution and a powerful icon of Texas Tech.  Although the position of the Masked Rider is very demanding with public appearances, and caring for the University mascot, Midnight Matador, the rewards are immeasurable.

Masked Rider tryouts are held during the spring semester of each year and last until a Masked Rider is named in April.

Tryout Qualifications for Masked Rider Candidates:

1. Must be enrolled as a Tech student during the Fall 2008 and Spring 2009 semesters and have a cumulative total of at least 45 credit hours.  (A minimum of 15 hours must have been completed in residence at Texas Tech. CLEP and AP hours may go towards the overall total, but will not be counted for residency hours.)
2. Undergraduate students must be enrolled in a minimum of 12 semester hours; graduate students must be enrolled in a minimum of 9 semester hours.
3. Must have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.75 (GPAs are not rounded up and adjusted cumulative GPA is not used)
4. Must have considerable equestrian experience.
5. Graduation will not occur before May 2009.
6. Must plan on being in Lubbock during the summer following selection.
7. Must be willing to accept all responsibilities of the position, which include year-round public relations activities.
8. Must be insurable to drive the Masked Rider truck.
9. Must pass a criminal background check.

(Masked Rider Assistants must also meet above qualifications.)