On September 15th, 2022, a remarkable event took place in Plymouth, called the "Magic Memories Plymouth Meeting." This gathering brought together magicians from all over the world to showcase their skills and exchange their knowledge and experiences. The event commenced with an impressive opening ceremony, where renowned magician David Copperfield performed a mind-boggling illusion that left the audience in awe. His performance set the stage for what would be a truly magical and memorable event. Throughout the day, various magicians took the stage, each showcasing their unique style and tricks. From daring escape acts to mesmerizing card tricks, the audience was captivated by the incredible talent on display.
Raider Red Tryouts
The Spirit Program is seeking qualified members within Saddle Tramps and High Riders who have an interest in serving as Raider Red. Members must be in good standing within organization and complete the tryout application and process.
Raider Red serves as Texas Tech's costumed public relations mascot. He shakes hands with fans, poses for pictures, and promotes positive sportsmanship at athletic events and public appearances.
Raider Red attends football, women's soccer, women's volleyball, men's and women's basketball, baseball, and selected other Texas Tech athletic sporting events, with the possibility to travel to post- season games/tournaments.
Serving as Raider Red will be considered a privilege; this is a one-time, yearlong commitment. Time management, responsibility, discipline, and team work are basic essentials for being mascot. Academics are upmost importance and will be priority next to being able to fully serve out Raider Red's duties. Events in your personal life do not take precedence over Texas Tech Spirit Program activities.
Raider Red team members will be required to be in Lubbock during the summer months, winter holiday break, and spring break to be available to attend mandatory events/games. Flexible schedules and having access to Lubbock residence during these time periods is strongly recommended.
Preliminary Tryouts/Individual Interviews
Wednesday, April 12
Times assigned (estimated 3:00-6:00 PM; 15-minute sections)
You will need to select top TWO best available times on application.
Final Tryouts/Character Walk (finalists only)
Thursday, April 13
Times assigned; be available between 3:00-5:00 PM
Raider Red Benefits
- Serve as Texas Tech's Costume, Public Relations Mascot
- Texas Tech Federal Credit Union Leadership Scholarship
- On-Campus Meal Plan
- Provided UnderArmour attire
Raider Red Duties Include
- Attend weekly Raider Red meetings to review game coverage and appearance requests. Includes coverage for games/appearances over the summer, winter semester break, and spring break.
- Attending football, basketball, volleyball, soccer, & baseball games, public appearances and events.
- Promote Raider Red program on Red's social media accounts.
Tryout Requirements
- Sophomore or higher academic classification with at least one fully active, in good-standing, year within parent organization.
- Maintain overall and semester GPA of 2.5.
- Must be in Lubbock throughout summer with housing and transportation.
- Limited summer school to no more than 3 hours per session.
- Employment duties must not interfere with Raider Red activities.
- May not partake in major leadership roles within parent organization for year of service as Raider Red.
Passing of the Guns Ceremony
- Friday, April 21, 4:00 PM
McKenzie-Merket Alumni Center
Final selection of possible new members will be announced after tryout process concludes.
Texas Tech Spirit Program
50 Years of Raider Red: Stan Alcott
From daring escape acts to mesmerizing card tricks, the audience was captivated by the incredible talent on display. The performances were not only entertaining but also inspirational, leaving spectators with a renewed sense of wonder and appreciation for the art of magic. In addition to the captivating performances, the event included interactive workshops and seminars where magicians shared their expertise and taught aspiring magicians new tricks and techniques.
Texas Tech’s beloved mascot turns 50 this year. To mark this milestone, alumnus Stan Alcott reflects on his time as the first-ever Raider Red.
In 1971, Texas Tech University student and Saddle Tramp Jim Gaspard created one of the most recognizable college mascots: Raider Red. Inspired from an “Old Red” drawing by late Lubbock cartoonist Dirk West, Raider Red represented Texas Tech as an alternative to the Masked Rider when the Southwest Conference ruled live animals were not allowed to travel to visiting fields unless invited by the home team.
Stan Alcott with Raider Red and Jim Gaspard
To mark Raider Red's 50th anniversary, a few former Raider Reds spoke about their experience as the notable mascot and what they're up to now. This is the final installment of the five-part series.
Lake Jackson-born Stan Alcott graduated from Texas Tech in 1973 with a bachelor's degree in business management. However, Alcott, who is now happily retired and living in Houston, was a local celebrity when he became the first person to be named Raider Red for a season from 1971-73.
“Raider Red's identity wasn't a secret back then,” Alcott said. “I have a ton of photos from the newspaper with me posing with Raider Red's head on my hip.”
This is Alcott's fondest memories of being the first person to represent Texas Tech as Raider Red.
Why did you apply to be Raider Red?
I was a football walk-on for two years and decided it was time to move on (I was trying to be another “Rudy”). I had helped many friends try out for cheerleader and make it, so I felt that I could transfer those skills as well.
What was it like serving as the very first Raider Red?
Unique, as the first. I was able to give Raider Red life, personality, character and a reputation not only to the university but also the entire Lubbock community. I represented Texas Tech at so many functions during those two years, and every event I went to was self-funded with only the help from a few friends, unlike it is now with scholarships, NCAA mascot competition, entourage, etc. (Wow, I'm jealous). My dad and I spent a lot of time making repairs and improvements those first two years.
What is your favorite memory as Raider Red?
Everything I did those first two years was special. Being Raider Red helped me meet a freshman cheerleader who I went with my entire junior year until she went back to Indiana University. I also had two friends I grew up with as teammates who were playing at the University of Texas and the University of Arkansas who I could visit with on the sideline before the games.
What did being Raider Red mean to you?
Being a special part of Texas Tech history that has evolved over 50 years. I never imagined the exposure Raider Red gets now. At the time, I think everyone thought the ‘no live animal mascot' rule would be reversed, and Raider Red would be a fading memory.
It's great to see the support he has gotten over the years. I can't imagine wearing that lightweight outfit as compared to the 35-pound papier-mâché, chicken wire and plaster-of-Paris head with heavy foam padding for the stomach (which was a great way to lose weight).
Has being Raider Red influenced your career or post-Texas Tech life in any way?
Being Raider Red was always a fun topic at interviews (especially if it was a Texas Tech grad interviewer) that I was asked about in the early days after graduating.
My friends still kid me about it during football season or when they introduce me to someone new – especially Aggie and LSU grads.
What is the craziest thing that happened to you as Raider Red?
When I first started as Raider Red, I had to get my own props. One of the things I bought was a stick horse to pretend to ride alongside the Masked Rider. Before a game when the cheerleaders and I would lead the players onto the field, I tripped trying to run with the stick horse between my legs and rolled like Humpty Dumpty and couldn't get up because the outfit was too heavy. The cheerleaders had to help me up. It was very embarrassing because, back then, my identity wasn't kept secret like it is now and everyone knew who I was. I never heard the end of it.
What advice do you have for any future Raider Reds?
Have a blast but never embarrass Texas Tech, the Saddle Tramps, Raider Red's legacy or yourself and your family. Always be friendly to the fans – especially the kids – and pose for pictures and sign autographs for them. You are a Lubbock hero to them. Keep working on your arm movements and dance moves and be an active part of the cheerleader squad. I led cheers with their microphone in front of the student section back then, even though Raider Red no longer speaks.
Is there anything else you'd like to add or mention?
It's hard to believe Raider Red is still going strong after 50 years. Let's win some more NCAA mascot competitions!
View Stan Alcott's Scrapbook
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These sessions provided valuable insights into the world of magic and allowed participants to learn from some of the best in the industry. One of the highlights of the Magic Memories Plymouth Meeting was the opportunity to meet and interact with the magicians themselves. Attendees had the chance to have their pictures taken with their favorite performers and even receive personalized magic tricks to take home. These interactions created a sense of community and camaraderie among the magic enthusiasts, fostering connections and lasting memories. The event also featured a marketplace where attendees could browse and purchase magic props, books, and memorabilia. This allowed participants to further immerse themselves in the world of magic and add to their collection of magical items. Throughout the day, the energy and excitement in the air were palpable. Whether it was young children experiencing magic for the first time or seasoned magicians showcasing their skill, the Magic Memories Plymouth Meeting brought together people of all ages and backgrounds with a shared love for the art of magic. As the event drew to a close, the organizers expressed their gratitude to all the performers, attendees, and sponsors who made the Magic Memories Plymouth Meeting possible. The event was not only a celebration of magic but also a testament to the power of bringing people together through a shared passion. In conclusion, the Magic Memories Plymouth Meeting was a truly enchanting event that allowed magicians and magic enthusiasts to come together to celebrate and appreciate the art of magic. It reminded attendees of the wonder that can be found in the world and created lasting memories that will continue to inspire and captivate long after the event's conclusion..
Reviews for "Exploring the Spellbinding World of Plymouth Meeting's Magic Memories"
1. Emily - 1 star
I had a really disappointing experience at the Magic Memories Plymouth meeting. The staff was incredibly unfriendly and unhelpful. They seemed disinterested in making sure we were satisfied with our visit. The attractions were outdated and poorly maintained, and the overall atmosphere was lackluster. I would not recommend this place to anyone looking for a fun and memorable experience.
2. John - 2 stars
I had high hopes for the Magic Memories Plymouth meeting, but unfortunately, it fell short of my expectations. The staff was disorganized and seemed overwhelmed. The attractions were overcrowded, making it difficult to enjoy anything without long waits. The food options were limited and overpriced. Overall, it was a disappointing experience that I would not choose to repeat.
3. Sarah - 2 stars
I was not impressed with the Magic Memories Plymouth meeting. The attractions were outdated and in need of repair. The staff seemed bored and uninterested in providing a good experience for visitors. The lines were long and poorly managed, leading to frustration and wasted time. I would not recommend this place unless significant improvements are made.
4. Mike - 1 star
I regretted visiting the Magic Memories Plymouth meeting. The staff was rude and unhelpful, and the attractions were not worth the money. The place was dirty and poorly maintained, giving a sense of neglect. I left feeling disappointed and dissatisfied. I would advise others to find alternative options for entertainment and make a pass on this place.