TRADITIONS FAQ

Understanding Aggie traditions

The Texas A&M student section is known as the 12th Man, and students will stand for the duration of football games. Meredith Seaver — THE BATTALION

From “Howdy” to “Here,” A&M traditions are unlike any other

By Samantha Mahler

@mahlersamantha

“From the outside looking in, you can’t understand it. From the inside looking out, you can’t explain it.”

Texas A&M’s storied history as a military college has led to dozens of traditions, which bind one generation of Aggies to the next. However, this culture shock can make those new to the university a little confused. Here are the answers to common questions about a few of A&M’s most popular traditions.

Why do we have Midnight Yell?

Yell Practice originated as an after-dinner ritual in 1913. Midnight Yell began in 1931 when a group of freshmen cadets had the idea to gather on the steps of the YMCA building at midnight to practice yells. Today, Midnight Yell is held the night before every home game in Kyle Field. For away games, a Midnight Yell will be held somewhere in or near the city where A&M will play its opponent.

During Midnight Yell, the Yell Leaders conduct the crowd in yells and tell fables about how the Aggies will beat their opponent the following day. The crowd will sing the “Aggie War Hymn.” When the lights go out, they’ll kiss their date, or “mug down,” to practice for the tradition of kissing each time the Aggies score. Don’t worry if you came alone, though. Just shine your phone’s flashlight and wait for a potential suitor.

What is a wildcat?

Originating from a fable in which there was a wildcat problem on campus, wildcats are an expression of class pride. Wildcats may be said after yells, when introducing yourself or after hearing your class year. For example, if you are a member of the Class of 2024, whenever you hear the number 24 you’ll do your wildcat.

As a freshman, you’ll raise your hands above your head and yell a continuous “AAAAA!” When you become a sophomore, you’ll make a “pistol” with each hand by extending your thumbs and index fingers and curling your other fingers inward while yelling “A! A! A! A! A!”

Junior year is when things get exciting: you can finally whoop! You’ll make one pistol with both hands while covering the top of your right hand to hide the fact that you don’t have your Aggie Ring yet. Point your hands down on the left side of your body and yell “A! A! A!” and then move your hands to the right side of your body and yell, “Whoop!” As a senior, you’ll keep both hands forming a pistol. This time, however, you’ll interlock your fingers to show off your Aggie Ring. Point your hands at the ground while yelling “A!” then move your interlocked hands above your head while yelling “Whoop!” while raising your right foot and tucking it behind your left knee.

Who is the 12th Man?

In 1922, the Aggies faced the Centre College Praying Colonels at a football game in the Dallas Dixie Classic. It wasn’t looking good for the Ags, since several players were injured and their team was quickly dwindling.

Suddenly, A&M coach Dana X. Bible remembered a squad player by the name of E. King Gill who was up in the press box helping reporters identify players on the field. Bible waved Gill down and told him to suit up. Gill changed under the bleachers into an injured running back’s uniform and stood on the sideline for the rest of the game, ready to play. Though he never set foot on the field, the Aggies pulled off the win, 22-14.

Today, students honor Gill’s willingness to serve by standing together at all football and basketball games. This has coined the term “Home of the 12th Man” and is one reason why A&M has been named one of the best college football environments for decades.

What’s the difference between Muster and Silver Taps?

Silver Taps and Muster are two of A&M’s most sacred traditions as they both honor Aggies who have recently passed away. However, there are a few key differences between the two.

Silver Taps is held on the first Tuesday of every month during the fall and spring semesters to honor current undergraduate and graduate students who have passed away. Beginning at 10:15 p.m., all lights on campus are shut off and students and families of those honored gather in Academic Plaza. At 10:30 p.m., the Ross Volunteers enter Academic Plaza and fire a three-volley salute. Buglers then play a special rendition of “Taps” called “Silver Taps” three times: once to the north, once to the south and once to the west, but never to the east because the sun will never rise on these fallen Aggies again.

Muster is held once a year on April 21 and honors all Aggies lost within the previous year, whether they were a former or current students. Muster is held in many locations around the world. However, the largest Muster is the campus Muster with thousands in attendance.

During each Muster ceremony, a speaker addresses the crowd and then begins the “Roll Call for the Absent,” reading aloud the names of those from the surrounding area who have passed away during the past year. A family member or friend answers “Here” to show the Aggie is still present in spirit and then lights a candle.

What is the Spirit of Aggieland?

They say the Spirit of Aggieland is a spirit that can ne’er be told. This spirit is what makes A&M so special. It begins when you first step foot on campus and are greeted with “Howdy,” the official greeting of Aggieland. It continues when you receive your Aggie Ring, the most visible symbol of the Aggie Network. And it’s why on April 21, no matter what the state of the world may look like, we call the Muster to honor those Aggies lost in the previous year.

No one’s time in Aggieland looks the same. Although your first few weeks may be uncertain, lean into the awkwardness of not fully understanding everything. The traditions become more meaningful as time goes on. So say “Howdy” to a stranger on campus. Stand for the entirety of a football game. Go to Silver Taps. And understand that these traditions are what make Aggies so proud to be a part of A&M.