Excitement Builds in College Station as Texas A&M Prepares for Arkansas Showdown

Excitement in College Station: The Texas A&M Rituals Ahead of the Arkansas Game

College Station, Texas, is buzzing with energy as the much-anticipated Texas A&M football game against Arkansas approaches. You can feel the excitement in the air, and it’s not just coming from the fans counting down the days to kick-off. This thrilling atmosphere is heightened by cherished traditions that have become a staple of life at A&M. Among these, the Corps of Cadets’ unique spurs tradition stands tall.

The Tradition of Spurs

The week leading up to the big game is marked by the sound of bottle caps clinking together, as the Corps of Cadets comes together to attach their specially crafted “spurs” to their shoes. These spurs, made from flattened and painted red bottle caps, are known affectionately as “fish spurs”, a tradition that has been alive and well for nearly a century. Freshman cadet, Judson Smith, was excited to share how it all began: “The tradition was started by the fish class during 1930. Before the SMU game, every year, the fish would wear spurs to ‘spur the ponies’ and get them going.”

Even though A&M doesn’t compete against SMU every year, this cherished custom has not faded – instead, it’s adapted to new contexts, particularly for the Arkansas game.

A Powerful Bond

Beyond just a quirky tradition, the preparation for the game creates a genuine sense of community among cadets. Senior Zach Miller explains, “One thing that a lot of people misunderstand about it is that we just discipline people, but it’s not all about that. In essence, the entire Corps is leadership development — not just leadership development — but also personal development.”

The Corps founders envisioned a place where cadets grow closer together, allowing freshman to enjoy their transition into such a rigorous environment. On the first day of the spurs tradition, as seniors cheer them on, the fresh faces of the Corps undergo a rite of passage that bonds them for life.

“While they’re on the quad, the spurs fall off,” Miller describes. “They have to pick them up and put their hands over their heads and wildcat like crazy while running all the way to the arches. While that may sound a little humiliating, seniors are just parked out on benches who are just cheering them on.”

Fierce Rivalries and Friendly Competition

Should the pledges of fraternities attempt to snatch the precious spurs, chaos ensues – in a good-natured way, of course. Smith adds, “If they do successfully take them, you’re supposed to yell ‘Old Army fight’ and every single cadet in the area will come rushing in to help you get your fish spurs back.” It’s an elaborate dance of tradition that sometimes results in a little friendly rivalry, resulting in “lost teeth, blood, sometimes,” but always surrounded by laughter and camaraderie.

Creating Lasting Memories

The camaraderie is evident in the process of making the fish spurs themselves. Each new group of freshmen, affectionately dubbed the “buddy class,” spends weekends crafting their spurs together. Smith recalls, “We spent this entire past weekend making literally over 1,000 bottle caps for my entire buddy class.” This teamwork fosters friendships that will last long beyond their time at A&M.

As for the stakes of the Arkansas game, it’s a fun twist: “Fish wear those spurs the week leading to the Arkansas game, but if we lose the game, they have to wear it for another week, and continuously until we win a game,” Miller explained. The hope is palpable among the cadets with Miller adding confidently, “Thankfully, that hasn’t been a problem for the years that I’ve been in the Corps.”

Onwards to Victory

For now, as the cadets eagerly count down to the game, their spirits are high. The Corps of Cadets is more than just discipline; it’s a rich tapestry of traditions, friendships, and leadership that connects the students to not only their school but also each other. “We’re the Aggies,” Miller declares with a grin, “We win by 90.” Can’t wait to see how this rivalry unfolds! Here’s to an unforgettable football season at Texas A&M!