The athletics team of Texas A&M University is a prominent force that’s dedicated to nurturing champions through athletic success and academic achievement. The university’s athletic program boasts of its rich history, one that includes “the 12th Man” in the football field.
Through the years, the Aggies were able to build the greatest traditions in college athletics. A&M became popular from football to soccer. The athletics department recognizes student-athletes, sports teams and programs that are helpful in the development of their learners. A&M took part in the Southeastern Conference where over 650 of the school’s athletes competed at the NCAA Division in 20 varsity sports.
There’s still a lot to know about the A&M Aggies:
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Sep 12, 2015; College Station, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies offensive lineman Koda Martin (75) is congratulated after falling on a fumble in the end zone for a touchdown against the Ball State Cardinals in the second half at Kyle Field. Aggies won 56 to 23. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports The US military academies excluded, Texas A&M’s Corps of Cadets is considered as the largest group of uniformed institution in this country. This university started as a military school during the late 1800s where only white males were admitted.
All white male students were required to finish their military training until 1965 when entering the Corps of Cadets became voluntary in nature. However, the school continued numerous traditional, such as the “Midnight Yell.”
- The Aggies have different yells, divided by class. During a game, the freshmen express their approval by yelling “AAAAAAAAAAAAA.” Sophomores yell the shorter “AAAAA” yell. On the other hand, the upperclassmen have all the fun with Juniors yelling, “AAAWHOOP” while seniors shout, “A-WHOOP!”
- “Aggies” refer to the students at Texas A&M. The “Aggies” term started in 1920. Before that, the Texas A&M students were referred to as “farmers.”
- Both alumni and students say “Gig ’em,” with thumbs up and displaying their Aggie rings. “Gig” refers to a sharp-pronged tool that is used for frog-hunting. “Gig ’em” was a term that referred to the TCU Horned Frogs, Aggie’s rival team that lost during a game in 1930. Since then, the phrase caught on.
- “A” & “M,” in 1876 meant Agricultural and Mechanical. The school’s name was changed in 1963 when it finally became Texas A&M University. Although the letter’s A & M provides a connection to the school’s history, these letters no longer stand for anything since the university’s programs became diverse and encompassing.
Different undergraduate and graduate degrees are currently being offered and not just Agriculture and Mechanical.
- The football team suffered numerous injuries in 1922, such that it went down to just 11 players. They needed a 12th man who’s ready to join the game once called upon. Luckily, E. King Gill was seated at the stands. He was called and immediately given a football uniform.
Even though E. King Gill never went in, his willingness and readiness to help the Aggies team started a long tradition or history of fan devotion.
- A&M has no cheerleaders, but it has “Yell Leaders.” This started during the years when it was an all-male learning center. All dressed in white, a group of 3 seniors and 2 juniors led the crowd in yelling.
- In Texas, butt jokes are often hurled at the Aggies. If you’ve observed its Yell Leaders, you’ll understand why. Aggies jokes are as prevalent as the “Yo Mama” jokes.
- An Aggie kisses his date after a touchdown. It’s also tradition for the Aggies to kiss their date the moment the lights go out right after the Midnight Yell.
- 10. Reveille, Texas A&M mascot can cancel classes. Reveille is considered as a member of the Cadet Corps with the highest rank. It is said that if Reveille barks during class, it is immediately dismissed. The Reveille has a strong influence over the entire university, its employees and staff as well as the students.