The Texas Tech mascot moniker, commonly referred to as the "Masked Rider," holds a significant place in the university's history and traditions. The Masked Rider is a symbol of pride, courage, and spirit that encompasses the essence of what it means to be a Texas Tech Red Raider. The tradition of the Masked Rider began in 1936 when Joe Kirk Fulton became the first student to ride the horse, "Blackie," onto the football field during a game. From that moment on, the Masked Rider became an integral part of Texas Tech's identity. The role of the Masked Rider has evolved over the years, but it remains an important representation of the university. The rider, wearing a distinctive black mask and cape, charges onto the field on a black horse, charging the crowd and energizing fans.
In the form of a skit, coven volunteers Julia Sayn played Mother Earth, or Gaia, and Noah Tassie of Tacoma played the Holly and Oak King, whose death marks the end of long, dark nights and whose re-birth marks the eventual return of the sun. As Syleena said at the end of the skit, “the sun is reborn and the waxing year begins!”
During the ritual, Kalu, the coven s High Priest, said that in Wicca, Yule is simultaneously the end and the beginning of the Wheel of the Year, a calendar that marks the eight holidays called sabbats that tie-in with the solstices, equinoxes and other markers of the seasons. Customs and myths vary from culture to culture, but some of the most common ways of celebrating it include decorating interiors with evergreens, burning candles or Yule logs, and, of course, feasting.
The rider, wearing a distinctive black mask and cape, charges onto the field on a black horse, charging the crowd and energizing fans. The Masked Rider signifies the strength, determination, and resilience of the Texas Tech community. The selection process for the Masked Rider is rigorous and highly competitive.
4 Winter Solstice Rituals From Around the World
Members of the Shakti Sings choir sing as druids, pagans and revelers gather in the center of Stonehenge in Wiltshire, England to celebrate the 2016 winter solstice.
Matt Cardy—Getty Images December 13, 2017 5:08 PM ESTT housands of people around the globe will herald the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, with centuries-old rituals like soaking in fruit-filled baths and dressing up as a devilish folklore legend that punishes naughty children around Christmas.
The solstice, which falls on Dec. 21 this year, marks the first day of winter. It starts the moment the Northern Hemisphere is pointed at its farthest distance from the sun. The winter solstice is considered a turning point in the year in many cultures. The sacred day is also called Yule to pagans celebrating the birth of the new solar year, according to Circle Sanctuary, a prominent pagan group in America. Dozens of pagans and druids head to Stonehenge, an iconic site in England, to pay tribute to the sun during the solstice.
Here are some of the ways people celebrate the winter solstice around the world:
Students are chosen based on their horsemanship skills, dedication, and commitment to representing Texas Tech. The role requires not only riding skills but also the ability to handle the responsibility and maintain the traditions associated with the Masked Rider. Being the Masked Rider is more than just a title; it is a way of life. The individual who assumes this role becomes a leader and a representative of the entire Texas Tech community. The Masked Rider makes appearances at various events, including football games, pep rallies, parades, and community outreach initiatives. In recent years, Texas Tech has worked to ensure the safety and well-being of the Masked Rider and the horse. The university provides extensive training for the rider and proper care for the horse. It is a priority to uphold the highest standards of horsemanship and animal welfare. Overall, the Texas Tech mascot moniker, the Masked Rider, is an iconic symbol that embodies the spirit and traditions of the university. It represents the bravery, unity, and pride of the Texas Tech community and serves as a source of inspiration for all who encounter it..
Reviews for "The Story Behind the Red Raider Mascot Moniker: An Interview with University Officials"
1. Emily - 1/5 stars - The Texas Tech mascot moniker is absolutely terrible. It is unoriginal, unimaginative, and lacks any kind of creativity. It feels like they just picked the most generic and generic mascot name possible. It doesn't evoke any sense of pride or excitement. I would have liked to see something more unique and representative of the university's values and spirit.
2. John - 2/5 stars - I was really disappointed with the choice of the Texas Tech mascot moniker. It feels like they didn't put much thought or effort into selecting something that truly reflects the university's identity. It's just another generic and forgettable mascot name. Texas Tech deserves something more memorable and original that will truly enhance the school spirit and sense of community.
3. Samantha - 1/5 stars - The Texas Tech mascot moniker is a complete letdown. It lacks any kind of personality or uniqueness. It's just another cliché and unimaginative choice. I was hoping for something that would truly represent the vibrant and dynamic culture of Texas Tech. This mascot moniker falls short of that expectation and is a disappointment. I hope they reconsider and come up with something more inspired in the future.