Try Out for the Spirit Program

Texas Tech Spirit Squads bring together students who represent the university at athletic events, competitions, campus programs and community appearances. Selection processes vary by program. Use the information below to learn about current Cheer, Pom Squad, Raider Red and Masked Rider opportunities.

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Cheer

Texas Tech Cheer selects members for its CoEd and All-Girl/Small CoEd squads through a preliminary video round followed by invitation-only, in-person tryouts.

2027-28 Cheer Tryout Timeline

• January 2027: Tryout application becomes available.
• Tuesday, April 20, 2027, by 5 p.m. Central: Qualifying skills video and application materials are due.
• By Friday, April 30, 2027: Invitations for the in-person selection process are sent.
• May 14-16, 2027: Invitation-only semifinal and final tryouts are held in person.

The live selection process is closed to the public.

Cheer Tryout Requirements, Forms

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Pom Squad

Texas Tech Pom Squad uses a recruiting-based selection process. Prospective members are encouraged to connect with the program before their senior year, attend clinics and recruiting opportunities and submit required materials during the appropriate recruitment cycle.

2027-28 Pom Recruitment

Class of 2027 high school graduates and transfer students must submit required recruiting videos by Sept. 1, 2026. Texas Tech participates in the Common College Dance Team Recruitment Video process and accepts submissions at the early Sept. 1 deadline for this recruiting cycle.

The Class of 2028 interest process is also open for prospective dancers who want to begin connecting with the program.

Recruitment Timeline

• By Sept. 1, 2026: Class of 2027 high school graduates and transfer students submit the required recruitment application and videos.
• Sept. 1, 2026-January 2027: Coaching staff evaluation period.
• Nov. 1, 2026-end of January 2027: Coaching staff may extend offers for positions on the Texas Tech Pom Squad.
• Sept. 1, 2027: Recruiting video deadline for 2028 high school graduates and transfer students.

Pom Squad Recruitment Requirements, Forms

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Raider Red

Raider Red is Texas Tech's costumed public relations mascot and represents the university at athletic events, campus programs, public appearances and other university activities.

Candidates must be members of Saddle Tramps or High Riders in good standing and complete the Raider Red selection process.

General Tryout Requirements

• Be classified as a sophomore or higher.
• Have completed at least one active year in good standing with Saddle Tramps or High Riders.
• Maintain an overall and semester GPA of at least 2.5.
• Be available in Lubbock throughout the summer with reliable housing and transportation.
• Limit summer school enrollment to no more than three hours per session.
• Be able to participate in required games, appearances, meetings and Spirit Program activities.
• Employment and outside activities must not interfere with Raider Red responsibilities.
• Avoid major leadership commitments within the parent organization during the year of service.

Raider Red Tryouts, Forms

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Masked Rider

The Masked Rider is one of Texas Tech's most recognized traditions and serves as a year-round ambassador for the university. Candidates complete an extensive selection process that includes academic and eligibility review, equestrian evaluation, driving evaluation and interviews.

2026-27 Selection Schedule

• Feb. 23: Information session, 4 p.m., Spirit Program Office lobby, east basement of the Student Union Building.
• Feb. 24: Riding pattern video and online application due by 5 p.m.
• March 3: Written equestrian exam, 4 p.m., Spirit Program Office, Room 025.
• March 8: Final application and references due by 5 p.m.
• March 9-16: Riding practice at the Livestock Arena.
• March 24: Equestrian tryouts and driving simulation.
• March 26: Candidate interviews.
• April 17: Transfer of Reins and public announcement, 2 p.m., McKenzie-Merket Alumni Center.

Dates and details are subject to change.

Masked Rider Tryouts, Forms