Why Do Texas Tech Fans Throw Tortillas at Football Games?
The practice of throwing tortillas at Texas Tech football games is a quirky tradition that has puzzled many outsiders. While it may seem strange at first glance, the tradition has a deep-rooted history and significance for Texas Tech fans.
The History of Tortilla Throwing
The exact origins of tortilla throwing at Texas Tech games are somewhat unclear, but there are a few popular theories:
- The "Viva Zapata" Connection: One theory suggests that the tradition began in the 1960s as a tribute to the Mexican revolutionary Emiliano Zapata. Zapata was known for his love of tortillas, and throwing them at the game was seen as a way to honor his memory.
- A Spontaneous Act of Celebration: Another theory posits that the tradition started spontaneously during a game in the 1970s. After a big win, a fan threw a tortilla onto the field as a gesture of celebration, and the crowd quickly joined in.
- A Nod to the Local Culture: Texas Tech is located in Lubbock, Texas, which has a significant Hispanic population. Tortilla throwing may simply be a way to acknowledge and celebrate this cultural heritage.
The Significance of Tortillas
Tortillas hold a special place in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, and they are often seen as a symbol of community and togetherness. Throwing tortillas at a football game can be seen as a way to create a sense of camaraderie among fans and to show support for the team.
The Rules of Tortilla Throwing
While there are no official rules for tortilla throwing at Texas Tech games, there are a few unwritten guidelines that fans typically follow:
- Only Throw Fresh Tortillas: It's considered bad form to throw stale or moldy tortillas.
- Aim for the Field, Not the Players: Throwing tortillas at the players can be dangerous and is generally frowned upon.
- Throw in Moderation: While throwing tortillas is encouraged, it's important to do so in moderation to avoid creating a mess.
The Fun and Games of Tortilla Throwing
Tortilla throwing has become an integral part of the Texas Tech football game experience. Fans of all ages enjoy participating in the tradition, and it has even been known to attract the attention of national media.
In addition to being fun, tortilla throwing can also be a bit messy. After a game, the field is often littered with tortilla remnants, which can be a challenge for the grounds crew to clean up. However, most fans agree that the mess is well worth it for the unique experience and the sense of community that tortilla throwing creates.
So, the next time you're at a Texas Tech football game and see fans throwing tortillas, you'll know that you're witnessing a tradition with a rich history and a lot of fun.