"We hail thee..." - raising your glasses

[usc_thereal]

I didn't really know where to put this, so I just decided to put it in here, since I reference football games.

Let me start by saying many of you will disagree with me on this, and that's fine. That is why I have posted this simply to hear everyone else's thoughts. So, here goes...

It really burns me up inside whenever I am at a game, albeit football, basketball, whatever, and during the end of the alma mater I see just about everyone raising their "glass." The reason this bothers me is that I feel this aspect of our alma mater should be reserved for alumni. I am 23 years old, and I just graduated. And, therefore, this football season will be the first time I have ever raised my glass during the alma mater. Except for the one time I tried to when I was a kid and my dad glared at me and explained that only alumni should do it. Now, I'm not saying my neighbor who is not an alumni can't scream for the cocks or even sing the alma mater, I treat all (well, most) of my fellow gamecock fans as family, I'm just saying I think it is a privelege to get to raise your glass and it should be respectfully reserved for alumni. Furthermore, I HATE it when I look at the student section and 80% is raising a glass. I think this is where the problem stems from. I can remember in 2002 when I had freshman orientation, that was one of the things they taught when they taught the freshmen the alma mater. I just think this is a travesty.

I know there are not any written rules for this. This is just my opinion and I wanted to get your thoughts. Sorry for the long read, thanks for sticking with me, whoever did.

-tbowen

[Juice4Bruce]

phew...I thought that said tbowden and I was about to raise the alarm! haha But I agree, It should be reserved for students and alumni.

[Gamecock History]

I didn't really know where to put this, so I just decided to put it in here, since I reference football games.

Let me start by saying many of you will disagree with me on this, and that's fine. That is why I have posted this simply to hear everyone else's thoughts. So, here goes...

It really burns me up inside whenever I am at a game, albeit football, basketball, whatever, and during the end of the alma mater I see just about everyone raising their "glass." The reason this bothers me is that I feel this aspect of our alma mater should be reserved for alumni. I am 23 years old, and I just graduated. And, therefore, this football season will be the first time I have ever raised my glass during the alma mater. Except for the one time I tried to when I was a kid and my dad glared at me and explained that only alumni should do it. Now, I'm not saying my neighbor who is not an alumni can't scream for the cocks or even sing the alma mater, I treat all (well, most) of my fellow gamecock fans as family, I'm just saying I think it is a privelege to get to raise your glass and it should be respectfully reserved for alumni. Furthermore, I HATE it when I look at the student section and 80% is raising a glass. I think this is where the problem stems from. I can remember in 2002 when I had freshman orientation, that was one of the things they taught when they taught the freshmen the alma mater. I just think this is a travesty.

I know there are not any written rules for this. This is just my opinion and I wanted to get your thoughts. Sorry for the long read, thanks for sticking with me, whoever did.

-tbowen

When I had freshman orientation way back in 1991 they taught us to raise our hand/glass during the alma mater. Not sure why they changed that, but that might be why there is some confusion. I have always thought only students and alumni were supposed to raise their hands and outside of the student section you will notice that it is very sporadic. But I think everyone is probably doing the right thing for the most part.

[rock23aj]

I agree! When I transferred in I remember them going over the alma mata and to raise a toast at the end but I dont remember them telling us to wait til you graduate....I never toasted either til I graduated

[The Dude]

i concur.

[usc_thereal]

I'm saying they teach all students to do it. I agree, they do NOT say to wait until you graduate. I am simply saying in my opinion that only alumni should do it. Not even students. No freshmen, no sophomores, no juniors, MAYBE seniors. That's just my two cents.

[BigGeorge]

I'm saying they teach all students to do it. I agree, they do NOT say to wait until you graduate. I am simply saying in my opinion that only alumni should do it. Not even students. No freshmen, no sophomores, no juniors, MAYBE seniors. That's just my two cents.

So does that go for players too after a game?

[Acockolypse Now]

I think that current students and alumni should do it. While not graduates, they are part of Carolina and deserve the respect afforded that. The school choral group sings it, the band plays it, and students are taught it.

Sing it proudly students. Just don't wear your ring till you graduate.

[CockyBocephus]

2000 orientation taught us to do it but didn't mention alumni only

[usc_thereal]

So does that go for players too after a game?

Good point, well played.

Well, that's what I wanted was to hear y'alls thoughts on this. I guess it's just a personal preference for me. Anyway, I'm looking forward to our massive and speedy defense next year! Go cocks!

[BigRedCock]

IMO you're trying to be a little too PC. It's a football game brah, not some elaborate ceremony....and Syvelle or Sidney never graduated...do you have a problem with them coming back and participating in the alma mater and raising a glass?

[usc_thereal]

IMO you're trying to be a little too PC. It's a football game brah, not some elaborate ceremony....and Syvelle or Sidney never graduated...do you have a problem with them coming back and participating in the alma mater and raising a glass?

Yes I do! They don't deserve to raise a glass with me!

I'm obviously kidding! I had never thought of it that way, so I now see the other side of it. I'm not being PC, in fact, I am rarely PC. This is just my opinion and how I feel about it. I was just curious to see if anyone shared my views. And obviously it brought up some good points that I had not thought of.

I'm still not changing though. Because I am a male, and I am headstrong.

[The Dude]

students and alum...i'm cool with just those two.

[ColaCock]

I didn't really know where to put this, so I just decided to put it in here, since I reference football games.

Let me start by saying many of you will disagree with me on this, and that's fine. That is why I have posted this simply to hear everyone else's thoughts. So, here goes...

It really burns me up inside whenever I am at a game, albeit football, basketball, whatever, and during the end of the alma mater I see just about everyone raising their "glass." The reason this bothers me is that I feel this aspect of our alma mater should be reserved for alumni. I am 23 years old, and I just graduated. And, therefore, this football season will be the first time I have ever raised my glass during the alma mater. Except for the one time I tried to when I was a kid and my dad glared at me and explained that only alumni should do it. Now, I'm not saying my neighbor who is not an alumni can't scream for the cocks or even sing the alma mater, I treat all (well, most) of my fellow gamecock fans as family, I'm just saying I think it is a privelege to get to raise your glass and it should be respectfully reserved for alumni. Furthermore, I HATE it when I look at the student section and 80% is raising a glass. I think this is where the problem stems from. I can remember in 2002 when I had freshman orientation, that was one of the things they taught when they taught the freshmen the alma mater. I just think this is a travesty.

I know there are not any written rules for this. This is just my opinion and I wanted to get your thoughts. Sorry for the long read, thanks for sticking with me, whoever did.

-tbowen
You do realize that the teach and instruct every single USC student to do this? Where the hell have you been? If they are teaching it, what is the problem? It is a part of the alma mater when singing it. Just because your daddy says it should be one way, doesn't mean jack squat. It is what it is. I think your argument has no grounds honestly. It seems to me you are taking this a little too far and making a stink over nothing...it is a sporting event.

[cockinorlando]

I just got back from my freshman orientation and they taught us to raise the glass...didnt say anything about waiting til you graduate

[The Dude]

You do realize that the teach and instruct every single USC student to do this? Where the hell have you been? If they are teaching it, what is the problem? It is a part of the alma mater when singing it. Just because your daddy says it should be one way, doesn't mean jack squat. It is what it is. I think your argument has no grounds honestly. It seems to me you are taking this a little too far and making a stink over nothing...it is a sporting event.

no need to bash the guy for starting a thread during this dead period. he has done so in a very civil way...at no point did he say anything inappropriate.

[ra742002]

in all honesty, I do it at games. I didn't attend USC. I went to Gardner-Webb. I guess b/c I feel our history and alma matter simply STINK, I do it at Carolina games, b/c I have been a life long fan and feel like I'm just as much a part of the Carolina family as anyone. I'm sure students and alumni would dissagree however. I am going to Grad school at Carolina, so I guess that counts for something!!

[Colatown]

One doesn't have to be a graduate to be an alumnus.

[joneskm5]

I think it is completely appropriate for STUDENTS and ALUMNI alike to raise our glasses during the alma mater. Regardless of whether I have graduated or not, I definitely pay my dues (mentally, emotionally, and financially) to be a Gamecock! I will say that I didn't raise my glass until I was a student, but that it was something I looked forward to since I was young, so you bet my first game as a freshman my glass was raised...I think it shows great spirit and loyalty to my university. Lets just keep things in perspective....GO COCKS!!

[SangareeCrew]

I graduated from a small private college, however, I took summer classes at USC and have 18 credit hours from the University of South Carolina on my transcript. Maybe that's just a small link, but I sure as heck raise my glass during every alma mater.

[bhall]

I didn't really know where to put this, so I just decided to put it in here, since I reference football games.

Let me start by saying many of you will disagree with me on this, and that's fine. That is why I have posted this simply to hear everyone else's thoughts. So, here goes...

It really burns me up inside whenever I am at a game, albeit football, basketball, whatever, and during the end of the alma mater I see just about everyone raising their "glass." The reason this bothers me is that I feel this aspect of our alma mater should be reserved for alumni. I am 23 years old, and I just graduated. And, therefore, this football season will be the first time I have ever raised my glass during the alma mater. Except for the one time I tried to when I was a kid and my dad glared at me and explained that only alumni should do it. Now, I'm not saying my neighbor who is not an alumni can't scream for the cocks or even sing the alma mater, I treat all (well, most) of my fellow gamecock fans as family, I'm just saying I think it is a privelege to get to raise your glass and it should be respectfully reserved for alumni. Furthermore, I HATE it when I look at the student section and 80% is raising a glass. I think this is where the problem stems from. I can remember in 2002 when I had freshman orientation, that was one of the things they taught when they taught the freshmen the alma mater. I just think this is a travesty.

I know there are not any written rules for this. This is just my opinion and I wanted to get your thoughts. Sorry for the long read, thanks for sticking with me, whoever did.

-tbowen



get off your high horse.

[BigGeorge]

One doesn't have to be a graduate to be an alumnus.

Brings up a good point, you only need 15 hours to join the alumni assc and there is a student alumni assc. I don't really care either way, I don't always raise my hand and I've raised it while I was walking out during the "In South Carolina" chorus while I'm moving. I have seen people pointing at other people and saying things at games like "that person didn't graduate, why are they toasting" in a snooty kind of way. These are some of the same people that say "sit down" or tell people not to yell! You never know that person could be a SS or GS. To that I say I just sent the GCC a check for 3k, I'll do whatever the hell I please!

[FinchMcCrunkNasty]

I didn't really know where to put this, so I just decided to put it in here, since I reference football games.

Let me start by saying many of you will disagree with me on this, and that's fine. That is why I have posted this simply to hear everyone else's thoughts. So, here goes...

It really burns me up inside whenever I am at a game, albeit football, basketball, whatever, and during the end of the alma mater I see just about everyone raising their "glass." The reason this bothers me is that I feel this aspect of our alma mater should be reserved for alumni. I am 23 years old, and I just graduated. And, therefore, this football season will be the first time I have ever raised my glass during the alma mater. Except for the one time I tried to when I was a kid and my dad glared at me and explained that only alumni should do it. Now, I'm not saying my neighbor who is not an alumni can't scream for the cocks or even sing the alma mater, I treat all (well, most) of my fellow gamecock fans as family, I'm just saying I think it is a privelege to get to raise your glass and it should be respectfully reserved for alumni. Furthermore, I HATE it when I look at the student section and 80% is raising a glass. I think this is where the problem stems from. I can remember in 2002 when I had freshman orientation, that was one of the things they taught when they taught the freshmen the alma mater. I just think this is a travesty.

I know there are not any written rules for this. This is just my opinion and I wanted to get your thoughts. Sorry for the long read, thanks for sticking with me, whoever did.

-tbowen
absoluetely agree - i will be raising my glass soon enough sir

[ColaCock]

no need to bash the guy for starting a thread during this dead period. he has done so in a very civil way...at no point did he say anything inappropriate.
I wasn't trying to bash him, and maybe I did come off harsh...but come on now, it just seems a little trivial to bring this up like it is a problem or like there is some rule against it. I have rarely heard of anyone complain about this. I think it looks awesome when the whole stadium does it, and makes the opposing fans wonder "wtf are they doing, that is kinda neat that everyone is doing it."

And for what it is worth, I graduated from USC...so it isn't like I am an outsider claiming it doesn't sound fair.

[JM1984]

Can't say I disagree, but alumni doesn't have a set definition.

How do you define alumni?http://supportingadvancement.com/includes/faq/header_faq.jpg (http://supportingadvancement.com/faq/faq.htm)
← Back to Frequently Asked Questions Main Page (http://supportingadvancement.com/faq/faq.htm)

Some different answers on this.

One standard used by US News is the number of graduates that can be solicited and this tends to be the most common.

Many schools also define an alum as anyone who attended a certain number of semesters or years. This is often done so that individuals that may have attended but not necessarily graduated are included in solicitation pools and as part of the overall marketing strategy. In terms of giving and connection with an institution, it is often the case that those who attended often have just as many strong ties to the institution as a alum.

So those who are students and have been students have a connection that could rationalize their participation.

[usc_thereal]

You do realize that the teach and instruct every single USC student to do this? Where the hell have you been? If they are teaching it, what is the problem? It is a part of the alma mater when singing it. Just because your daddy says it should be one way, doesn't mean jack squat. It is what it is. I think your argument has no grounds honestly. It seems to me you are taking this a little too far and making a stink over nothing...it is a sporting event.

Look man, calm down. I didn't say that I still feel this way because of my "daddy." This is the way I feel about it, these are choices that I make. The same way you do or don't do something else that may not be customary. I just wanted everyone's thoughts. If you don't think my argument has any grounds, then that's fine. I never intended it to be an "argument" anyway. It was merely a topic to start conversation. Obviously I opened a pandora's box here that I never should have. If I ruffled your feathers, then so be it, it's over and let's move on. Sorry for the fuss.

[ra742002]

well if 15 hours is the case, I am alumni. I took 18 hours in the Spring of 03. Guess I can raise my glass?

[USCMM]

Well, they teach everyone in the band to do it freshmen through seniors...we get bumped and prodded and glared at if we don't.

now I'll tell you a problem I have and that is people not taking their hats off in reverence. I always want to yell at the idiots and it brings my attention to them and ruins the mood.

[ColaCock]

Well, they teach everyone in the band to do it freshmen through seniors...we get bumped and prodded and glared at if we don't.

now I'll tell you a problem I have and that is people not taking their hats off in reverence. I always want to yell at the idiots and it brings my attention to them and ruins the mood.

Or the 50 year olds (no offense to those of that age) in the student section, particularly the North Endzone. You are far past grown, now join the Gamecock Club. A few of them pissed me off a couple years back when they were in MY section telling ME I couldn't take a swig of my bourbon while in the stadium. The nerve...

[USCMM]

Or the 50 year olds (no offense to those of that age) in the student section, particularly the North Endzone. You are far past grown, now join the Gamecock Club. A few of them pissed me off a couple years back when they were in MY section telling ME I couldn't take a swig of my bourbon while in the stadium. The nerve...

Reminds me of the time I saw a woman with two children in the student section. Her eyes got soo wide whenever she heard someone cuss or something of the sort. She gave some of her own words to those people. They left after the first quarter and I never saw them come back. Made me feel bad, but they should understand the consequences of being in the student section.

[The Dude]

Or the 50 year olds (no offense to those of that age) in the student section, particularly the North Endzone. You are far past grown, now join the Gamecock Club. A few of them pissed me off a couple years back when they were in MY section telling ME I couldn't take a swig of my bourbon while in the stadium. The nerve...

while i was a student, i was in the student section (go figure) for the Clemson game. The place was going nuts, of course, and i happened to have some of these you describe sitting behind me...they told me to sit down and stop making so much noise.
lets just say i was a bit inebriated and had a few choice words to share with them about the STUDENT section.

[Cockholio]

This subject seems to be discussed around this time every year. There will always be the same both-sides-of-the-fence musings..

In the past I've suggested in jest for those of us who graduated from another school, yet are still financial supporters or simply, "friends of USC athletics" to just "hold up a wad of cash" while students and alumni "raise a glass". That way there will be no question and no offense as to who's who. Students and alumni raising a glass will get the recognition they desire as alum's, and the non-alumni folks who's money helped pay the way for countless student athletes in all sports to get their degree's from USC, will get their recognition. Maybe that would make everybody happy.

[The Dude]

This subject seems to be discussed around this time every year. There will always be the same both-sides-of-the-fence musings..

In the past I've suggested in jest for those of us who graduated from another school, yet are still financial supporters or simply, "friends of USC athletics" to just "hold up a wad of cash" while students and alumni "raise a glass". That way there will be no question and no offense as to who's who. Students and alumni raising a glass will get the recognition they desire as alum's, and the non-alumni folks who's money helped pay the way for countless student athletes in all sports to get their degree's from USC, will get their recognition. Maybe that would make everybody happy.

so do alum who give money get to hold both up?
:lol:

[willy]

I didn't really know where to put this, so I just decided to put it in here, since I reference football games.

Let me start by saying many of you will disagree with me on this, and that's fine. That is why I have posted this simply to hear everyone else's thoughts. So, here goes...

It really burns me up inside whenever I am at a game, albeit football, basketball, whatever, and during the end of the alma mater I see just about everyone raising their "glass." The reason this bothers me is that I feel this aspect of our alma mater should be reserved for alumni. I am 23 years old, and I just graduated. And, therefore, this football season will be the first time I have ever raised my glass during the alma mater. Except for the one time I tried to when I was a kid and my dad glared at me and explained that only alumni should do it. Now, I'm not saying my neighbor who is not an alumni can't scream for the cocks or even sing the alma mater, I treat all (well, most) of my fellow gamecock fans as family, I'm just saying I think it is a privelege to get to raise your glass and it should be respectfully reserved for alumni. Furthermore, I HATE it when I look at the student section and 80% is raising a glass. I think this is where the problem stems from. I can remember in 2002 when I had freshman orientation, that was one of the things they taught when they taught the freshmen the alma mater. I just think this is a travesty.

I know there are not any written rules for this. This is just my opinion and I wanted to get your thoughts. Sorry for the long read, thanks for sticking with me, whoever did.

-tbowen I agree with you, but how do we stop it ?

[GoCocks74]

I think taters should be able too.

A real glass.

Filled with cow piss.

Turned upside down over their heads.

[BigGeorge]

I think taters should be able too.

A real glass.

Filled with cow piss.

Turned upside down over their heads.

I'm not touching that one!

[ColaCock]

Reminds me of the time I saw a woman with two children in the student section. Her eyes got soo wide whenever she heard someone cuss or something of the sort. She gave some of her own words to those people. They left after the first quarter and I never saw them come back. Made me feel bad, but they should understand the consequences of being in the student section.

Yeah, it isn't the nicest part of the stadium I suppose when you have a section full of wild drunks pulling for the Cocks. I will tell you another quick story:

Remember last year when we got screwed by the refs pretty bad and stuff was thrown all over the field? The game was delayed and this and that...I think it might have happened twice. Anyways, come the Tennessee game (I think)...some of you may remember, but Sidney dove out for a long catch and was grabbed and BLATENTLY was interfered with by the defender. No call was made or flag thrown. Fans got PISSED. The announcer immediately announced for fans to refraim from throwing objects on the field...wonder why anyone would WANNA DO THAT?

Anyways, whether you like it or not or think it's dumb...my friend is angry and chunks his water bottle on to the field. An old woman behind him says "Hey asshole!!" and he turns around, and she pushes him down and he tumbles 3 or 4 steps down. I was shocked! Then we all get into it with our friends and theirs. Words are exchanged, it was getting bad...and we told them to get the hell out of our section anyways. They quickly left.

About that same time, the cops were coming up...we thought after my friend. Apparently arguments are contagious because a fight broke out above us where 2 guys were jumping this one guy...he got stomped down and then some random guy poured his Sprite on top of this poor guy's head. They all got arrested, even the guy with the Sprite. And the woman who told the cop about the guy with the Sprite was arrested because they didn't know who to believe.

Wild, I tell ya. Anybody else remember this from last year?

[The Dude]

Remember last year when we got screwed by the refs pretty bad and stuff was thrown all over the field? The game was delayed and this and that...I think it might have happened twice. Anyways, come the Tennessee game (I think)...some of you may remember, but Sidney dove out for a long catch and was grabbed and BLATENTLY was interfered with by the defender. No call was made or flag thrown. Fans got PISSED. The announcer immediately announced for fans to refraim from throwing objects on the field...wonder why anyone would WANNA DO THAT?

Anyways, whether you like it or not or think it's dumb...my friend is angry and chunks his water bottle on to the field. An old woman behind him says "Hey asshole!!" and he turns around, and she pushes him down and he tumbles 3 or 4 steps down. I was shocked! Then we all get into it with our friends and theirs. Words are exchanged, it was getting bad...and we told them to get the hell out of our section anyways. They quickly left.

About that same time, the cops were coming up...we thought after my friend. Apparently arguments are contagious because a fight broke out above us where 2 guys were jumping this one guy...he got stomped down and then some random guy poured his Sprite on top of this poor guy's head. They all got arrested, even the guy with the Sprite. And the woman who told the cop about the guy with the Sprite was arrested because they didn't know who to believe.

Wild, I tell ya. Anybody else remember this from last year?

definitely.
i wasnt in the student section- but everyone in the stadium took notice when the cops were moving through the student section!

[ColaCock]

I think taters should be able too.

A real glass.

Filled with cow piss.

Turned upside down over their heads.

http://lynx.uio.no/jon/gif/misc/kili-golden-shower.gif

[Nasty]

I didn't really know where to put this, so I just decided to put it in here, since I reference football games.

Let me start by saying many of you will disagree with me on this, and that's fine. That is why I have posted this simply to hear everyone else's thoughts. So, here goes...

It really burns me up inside whenever I am at a game, albeit football, basketball, whatever, and during the end of the alma mater I see just about everyone raising their "glass." The reason this bothers me is that I feel this aspect of our alma mater should be reserved for alumni. I am 23 years old, and I just graduated. And, therefore, this football season will be the first time I have ever raised my glass during the alma mater. Except for the one time I tried to when I was a kid and my dad glared at me and explained that only alumni should do it. Now, I'm not saying my neighbor who is not an alumni can't scream for the cocks or even sing the alma mater, I treat all (well, most) of my fellow gamecock fans as family, I'm just saying I think it is a privelege to get to raise your glass and it should be respectfully reserved for alumni. Furthermore, I HATE it when I look at the student section and 80% is raising a glass. I think this is where the problem stems from. I can remember in 2002 when I had freshman orientation, that was one of the things they taught when they taught the freshmen the alma mater. I just think this is a travesty.

I know there are not any written rules for this. This is just my opinion and I wanted to get your thoughts. Sorry for the long read, thanks for sticking with me, whoever did.

-tbowen

AGREED, I DIDNT GO TO COLLEGE, ANY, BUT I WOULD DIE FOR THE GAMECOCKS. ALSO MY DAD DID THE SAME THING TO ME THE FIRST TIME I SAW HIM RAISE HIS HAND DURING THE ALMA MATER THEN I TRIED TO DO IT AND HE SLAPED IT DOWN FASTER THAN ANYTHING. SO YES I AGREE THAT ONLY ALUMNI SHOULD DO IT. GO COCKS

[Cockholio]

so do alum who give money get to hold both up?
:lol:


Yes, and while doing so they get to yell "BooYaaah Beyatches!!"

[USCMM]

I got interested in the definition/etymology/history of the word alma mater and found some interesting stuff.

First, the regular definitions:
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/alma%20mater

1.a school, college, or university at which one has studied and, usually, from which one has graduated.
2.the official anthem of a school, college, or university.

Here's the etymology and some history from the same source:

1398, from L., lit. "bountiful mother," title Romans gave to goddesses, especially Ceres and Cybele, from alma, fem. of almus "nourishing," from alere "to nourish" (see old (http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/old)) + mater "mother." First used 1710 in sense of "one's university or school" in ref. to British universities.

Lastly, here's what wikipedia says:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alma_mater

Alma mater is Latin for "nourishing mother". It was used in ancient Rome as a title for the mother goddess, and in MedievalChristianity for the Virgin Mary.
This term is taken from the motto ("Alma Mater Studiorum") of the oldest European continually operating degree-granting university, the University of Bologna, in Italy, founded in A.D. 1088, and located in the city of Bologna.
In many modern languages it is usually and principally heard as a term of academia; thus, in the English language, it is often used in place of the name of the university or college a person has attended. In American English, it is also heard in reference to a high school or elementary school.
Alma mater is sometimes the incipit of a school's anthem or song, and may be taken as a title for the genre. The term is more familiar in the United States than in the United Kingdom. In the United States, the term often refers to the entire school song as opposed to simply the opening.

-------------------------

Thus, some interpret alma mater from different definitions. Some think it as the school's song...which as long as you are a fan you can raise the glass. Whereas, some take it as the school they attended/are attending and thus only they can raise the glass.

BUT, from looking at the etymology of alma mater I am going to have to agree that it should be reserved for students and alumni because I would think "nourishing mother" as the university and thus only the students recieve the gifts from the "nourishing mother." Therefore, only they should be able to raise their glass in thanks for what was given to them.

[usc_thereal]

I agree with you, but how do we stop it ?

We can't. That's what sucks. But, oh well, I'm sure I agree with a lot of things other people don't. So, to each is own. But I am glad someone agrees with me! I'll raise MY glass to you!

[usc_thereal]

AGREED, I DIDNT GO TO COLLEGE, ANY, BUT I WOULD DIE FOR THE GAMECOCKS. ALSO MY DAD DID THE SAME THING TO ME THE FIRST TIME I SAW HIM RAISE HIS HAND DURING THE ALMA MATER THEN I TRIED TO DO IT AND HE SLAPED IT DOWN FASTER THAN ANYTHING. SO YES I AGREE THAT ONLY ALUMNI SHOULD DO IT. GO COCKS

Cheers, brother! Go cocks.

[carolinathru&thru]

I think (and i'm saying this from a totally objective standpoint, because i plan on going to USC, and will fill out my appl. in the fall), that only students and grads should raise their glasses. It is the alumni's alma-mater, and that is their tradition. I understand that there are many non-USC-grads that are HUGE fans of the Gamecocks, and that's awesome. But, I think the "raising of the glasses" should be a tradition only observed by the alma-mater.

I always go to games with my dad. He is a USC fan, but he graduated from Carson-Newman (a small college in Tenn.). He's never once raised his glass during any of the games i've been to with him. I am a HUGE fan of USC, but am yet to be a student/grad, i've never raised my "glass" (well, most of the time it's an empty hand, but you get the symbolism). I'd feel really akward if I did raise my glass.

I understand that some people didn't go to college or went to a college without a big football program. And ya'll can cheer for Gamecocks the loudest sometimes (i've found that many non-grads are actually bigger fans than grads sometimes). But, I just think it is a tradition that is solely reserved for students/alumni.

But, this is just my opinion.





Edit: I mis-understood the alumnus thing.

[doccock]

One doesn't have to be a graduate to be an alumnus.

Ding Ding Ding.....we have a winner. Much as we may like it that way, acccording to the American Heritage Dictionary,

"an alumnus is a male graduate or former student of a school, college, or university. In addition, an alumna (pl. alumnae) is a woman graduate or former student of a school, college, or university."

So they say that all you have to do is attend, not graduate. However, I don't disagree with those who say that anyone who has never been a student, shouldn't take part. I will also say that traditionally, only graduates sing the alma mater, but again I've never seen any rule to that affect.
doc

[IHateOrange]

Yeah, it isn't the nicest part of the stadium I suppose when you have a section full of wild drunks pulling for the Cocks. I will tell you another quick story:

Remember last year when we got screwed by the refs pretty bad and stuff was thrown all over the field? The game was delayed and this and that...I think it might have happened twice. Anyways, come the Tennessee game (I think)...some of you may remember, but Sidney dove out for a long catch and was grabbed and BLATENTLY was interfered with by the defender. No call was made or flag thrown. Fans got PISSED. The announcer immediately announced for fans to refraim from throwing objects on the field...wonder why anyone would WANNA DO THAT?

Anyways, whether you like it or not or think it's dumb...my friend is angry and chunks his water bottle on to the field. An old woman behind him says "Hey asshole!!" and he turns around, and she pushes him down and he tumbles 3 or 4 steps down. I was shocked! Then we all get into it with our friends and theirs. Words are exchanged, it was getting bad...and we told them to get the hell out of our section anyways. They quickly left.

About that same time, the cops were coming up...we thought after my friend. Apparently arguments are contagious because a fight broke out above us where 2 guys were jumping this one guy...he got stomped down and then some random guy poured his Sprite on top of this poor guy's head. They all got arrested, even the guy with the Sprite. And the woman who told the cop about the guy with the Sprite was arrested because they didn't know who to believe.

Wild, I tell ya. Anybody else remember this from last year?

yeah that was pretty crazy... there was a lot of cop intervention in the student section last year ... fun to watch but not fun to be a part of.
I had a friend removed from the stadium because he dropped his drink on a girl in front of him after we scored and he was jumping around. th girl wasnt really that mad but this female cop saw it and flipped out on him ... that was just weird

[the gamecock kid]

Ummm i dont really know much about this subject so im just gonna say GO COCKS and not embarrass myself!!!

[MrTeamoney]

I took my last couple of hours at USC (as a transient student) but I graduated from Winthrop. Am I allowed to raise a glass???

I am joking, of course. When I was younger, I was told that the raising of the glass was supposed to be for graduates. I have done it before but it felt awkward. I vote the raising of the glass should be reserved for graduates.

[SangareeCrew]

Well, even though I graduated from Charleston Southern (b/c I got a full ride) I did take enough summer hours at USC (18 hours) to count as an alumnus. So I will continue to raise my glass with my Dad (a USC graduate).

GO COCKS!

[Lalli25]

As a student who is close to graduating I think students and alum should do it. Also anyone who took 15+ credits wouldn't bother me either.

I mean have you ever heard of the Notre Dame subway alum? It is the samething with SC and people who may have not been able to attend the university may love as much as if not more then alums and if they have been loyal to the school I have no problem with them doing it. I mean I never really thought anything of that before this thread.

I admit I had a gf of mine, who went to Georgetown, was sitting with me in the students section raise her hand. I just figure if you are in the the student section you should match everyone else. I don't know if I would have her due that again now.

All in all I think if you are a true gamecock at heart there is no problem with the toast. It is honoring the school and also the state. At least that is how I look at it when people raise a hand who didn't go to USC they can be doing it to the state.

[GoCocker]

...I just sent the GCC a check for 3k, I'll do whatever the hell I please!

pts. sent.

[ColaCock]

It is the samething with SC and people who may have not been able to attend the university may love as much as if not more then alums and if they have been loyal to the school I have no problem with them doing it....All in all I think if you are a true gamecock at heart there is no problem with the toast. It is honoring the school and also the state. At least that is how I look at it when people raise a hand who didn't go to USC they can be doing it to the state.

Exactly. Why is it necessary to have attended the university to be a true fan and take part in all the traditions that go with it? What if I had grown up a Gamecock fan all my life but wanted to be an architect? I would have been shit out of luck going to USC- cause they don't have that program!

[Wazir]

My feeling is this way. Alumni and Alumna plus students enrolledf+former students who werethere at Carolina and pulled for the Cocks+ any Gamecock fan who didn't go to school here and is just a fan. Should "raise the glass".
I think all of the aforehand is rather ludicrus + being rather REDICKULUSS.
i'M AN OLD FART Classes of 66 and 74. My wife didn't go to USC she went to Radford in Va. She gets a bit upset when she see people not raising their "glass" for Carolina.

So I see nothing wrong or out of order here. After 30 years in the military
I can enlighten those skeptics as to what is out of order and what is appropriate.
Lighten up abit per this subject. I also went to an Ivy League school as well with a degree and I sure as heck don't raise my "glass" to them. My glass is raised to Carolina and so should everyfans as well.

[Bonzo]

yeah, i've been a gamecock fan forever, and i never raised my hand during the alma mater.

a BIGGER pet peeve is when people raise their hand with some crazy surfer looking thing, and don't realize they're supposed to be raising a glass.

[BigGeorge]

yeah, i've been a gamecock fan forever, and i never raised my hand during the alma mater.

a BIGGER pet peeve is when people raise their hand with some crazy surfer looking thing, and don't realize they're supposed to be raising a glass.

Lol, never seen anybody flash a hang ten before, I think I'll start doing the 80's heavy metal devil sign thing, maybe head bang a little while I'm doing it!

[boneyrooster]

Same problem at Miss State, non-alumns will now be ejected if caught ringing cow bells...wtf?

[ColaCock]

yeah, i've been a gamecock fan forever, and i never raised my hand during the alma mater.

a BIGGER pet peeve is when people raise their hand with some crazy surfer looking thing, and don't realize they're supposed to be raising a glass.
Wait a sec, are you sure you aren't getting that confused with a different cheer? Everyone (at least the students and younger crowd) does the "surfer hand" on one particular song the band plays...I can't sound it out on here but the drums play really hard at the end and everyone holds up the hand and goes to the beat "da da da da, da da da da, DA DA!" It is awesome.

A lot of people also hold up the surfer hand when they are circling their arms for the kickoff on the "Go, fight, win, kick ass!" chant.

[IHateOrange]

Wait a sec, are you sure you aren't getting that confused with a different cheer? Everyone (at least the students and younger crowd) does the "surfer hand" on one particular song the band plays...I can't sound it out on here but the drums play really hard at the end and everyone holds up the hand and goes to the beat "da da da da, da da da da, DA DA!" It is awesome.

A lot of people also hold up the surfer hand when they are circling their arms for the kickoff on the "Go, fight, win, kick ass!" chant.

the students do this for just about everything

[Juice4Bruce]

yeah I pay 15 thousand dollars a year to go to USC..out of my own pocket. I'll go ahead and raise my freakin glass.

[Juice4Bruce]

Wait a sec, are you sure you aren't getting that confused with a different cheer? Everyone (at least the students and younger crowd) does the "surfer hand" on one particular song the band plays...I can't sound it out on here but the drums play really hard at the end and everyone holds up the hand and goes to the beat "da da da da, da da da da, DA DA!" It is awesome.

A lot of people also hold up the surfer hand when they are circling their arms for the kickoff on the "Go, fight, win, kick ass!" chant.

yeah that song is called kryptonite..its not just drums but its hard to hear the band...its an amazing song that really gets the crowd pumped

[JuggernautCock]

we were taught in 2003 to raise it at orientation. i did it then, and now that i'm alumni, i guess it doesn't make much of a difference. i'll do it with more pride now.

[Lalli25]

yeah, i've been a gamecock fan forever, and i never raised my hand during the alma mater.

a BIGGER pet peeve is when people raise their hand with some crazy surfer looking thing, and don't realize they're supposed to be raising a glass.

I believe the theory is that it looks like a talen. That is why I have always done and that people were doing it when I came here.

[CCC]

I'm still not changing though. Because I am a male, and I am headstrong.

Gee, imagine that :lol:

[doccock]

I believe the theory is that it looks like a talen. That is why I have always done and that people were doing it when I came here.

I assume you mean talon, but even so that means people aren't paying attention to what they are singing. You're supposed to be raising your glass to give a toast. That's what "here's a health carolina" means.
doc

[Mastajun]

I was lucky enough to graduate from Greenville Tech...whoo!!! I do hope to get a graduate degree from USC when i move to Cola in a couple years...anyway, I understand tradition and i understand it really means something to the alumni to be able to raise the glass. i don't do it at the games simply because of that one reason. i'm sure some alumnus could care less but i agree it should be respected...and it should be for students and alumnus only! I hope to get to participate some day soon!

[SpuR48]

I think some of you guys may be confusing "hang-ten" with our "spur." At least that's what I've always called it, lol...

Anyways, I never attended USC, but I'm a rabid, crazy, and loyal Gamecock. I don't hold my hand up during the Alma Mater, because I feel I didn't really earn the right to. That's just my personal opinion. I have friends who didn't go to USC, but also hold their "glasses" up. It doesn't bother me if they do it. So I guess what I'm getting at, is that I don't care if they whole stadium does it, I won't do it because I'm not an Alumni. I do sing, though (to the dismay of everyone within earshot of me :D)

[Lalli25]

I assume you mean talon, but even so that means people aren't paying attention to what they are singing. You're supposed to be raising your glass to give a toast. That's what "here's a health carolina" means.
doc

No I was reffering to the surfer thing and yes I know the toast to Carolina during the alma mater. I maybe someone who didn't grow up from birth a USC fan but I embodied all of the traditions established before me. I was reffering to the before kickoffs and the kryptonite song.

[SpuR48]

"Do the chickens have large talons?"

SPURs!!! :D

[Visormaniac]

I went to USC-Spartanburg back in the day (it's USC-Upstate now), and I have been to a whole lotta Carolina games over the years - too many to count. I usually leave as soon as the final gun sounds, anyway. I don't think it is a big deal. What should one do, ask for a student ID, or a copy of the diploma of the people around them who raise their glass?

[doccock]

No I was reffering to the surfer thing and yes I know the toast to Carolina during the alma mater. I maybe someone who didn't grow up from birth a USC fan but I embodied all of the traditions established before me. I was reffering to the before kickoffs and the kryptonite song.
got ya.
doc

[ColaCock]

The surfer thing = the talon. Same thing. They resemble each other and are the same hand shape.

I repeat, I have never witnessed people use this during the alma mater...but on many other cheers. I even do it myself on a few of them.

[Swampcock]

If you go out to eat with a group and a toast is offered, do you have to be a particular member of some organization to toast? Ridiculous! Anyone can toast their favorite team regardless of whether they attended the school or not. Would you rather see 50,000 fans toasting or 90,000?

Another example you have a family of four, three are Carolina graduates and one is not. Is that one family member who is maybe the biggest fan of all not allowed to raise their glass to Carolina, even thought that person sacrificed so the others could attend? Do you get my point? Anyone can toast Carolina. Some may have wanted to attend but couldn't for any number of reasons. They have every right to be proud of Carolina as well. That's just my opinion.

[willy]

If you go out to eat with a group and a toast is offered, do you have to be a particular member of some organization to toast? Ridiculous! Anyone can toast their favorite team regardless of whether they attended the school or not. Would you rather see 50,000 fans toasting or 90,000?

Another example you have a family of four, three are Carolina graduates and one is not. Is that one family member who is maybe the biggest fan of all not allowed to raise their glass to Carolina, even thought that person sacrificed so the others could attend? Do you get my point? Anyone can toast Carolina. Some may have wanted to attend but couldn't for any number of reasons. They have every right to be proud of Carolina as well. That's just my opinion.

A point well taken, Thanks a lot Swampcock for reminding us of that.

[doccock]

Exactly. Why is it necessary to have attended the university to be a true fan and take part in all the traditions that go with it? What if I had grown up a Gamecock fan all my life but wanted to be an architect? I would have been shit out of luck going to USC- cause they don't have that program!

You're comparing apples and oranges. The alma mater has nothing to do with being a great fan. That's the whole point. It's not a "cheer" for the fans. It's a privelidge that honors the school you attended and are giving a toast to. In a way, you are claiming credit for something that you did not accomplish.

In the case you listed, you would then be singing the alma mater of the school you did attend. That doesn't mean you can't still cheer for somone else.
respectfully submitted,
doc

[ColaCock]

yeah that song is called kryptonite..its not just drums but its hard to hear the band...its an amazing song that really gets the crowd pumped

is kryptonite the one that goes (bare with me): daaaa da da daaaaa, U-S-C, Gooooooo Cocks! daaaa da da daaaaa, U-S-C, Gooooo Cocks!

^i want to say it sounds like the Darth Vader theme.

if so, that isn't the exact one i was talking about...i was referring to the slow paced song where there are horns and all at the beginning but you really can hear the drums hard at the end. which is which?

[scleatherneck]

Who cares if you didnt attend USC, hell I pay alot of money every year for those tickets to the games and never stepped one foot inside of the classrooms!!! But I will die a gamecock and defend them everyday!!! My blood runneth garnet and black!!!!!!!

[Lalli25]

is kryptonite the one that goes (bare with me): daaaa da da daaaaa, U-S-C, Gooooooo Cocks! daaaa da da daaaaa, U-S-C, Gooooo Cocks!

^i want to say it sounds like the Darth Vader theme.

if so, that isn't the exact one i was talking about...i was referring to the slow paced song where there are horns and all at the beginning but you really can hear the drums hard at the end. which is which?

I believe kryptonite is the song you thinking about. It starts of slow and everyone moves their hand forward and back with the beat and at the end it goes real fast and the drums beat so fast it is almost hard to keep up and most people lose the rythm.

I would like to mention I like the talon thing. I would like to have some hand sign that when you were to do that to someone they would know you are a USC fan like the talon.

[usc_thereal]

It's Krypton Fanfare (I think that's the official name) it's from one of the early superman movies. My favorite in the band's arsenal.

[ColaCock]

It's Krypton Fanfare (I think that's the official name) it's from one of the early superman movies. My favorite in the band's arsenal.
Thanks, yeah that is pretty awesome. That one and the Darth Vader-sounding song are two of my favs.:rock:

[TaterHater1984]

The way I see it is that anyone that is, or was, a part of an institution should be able to raise thier hand during the Alma Mater.

[Lalli25]

It's Krypton Fanfare (I think that's the official name) it's from one of the early superman movies. My favorite in the band's arsenal.

Thanks for the info. I was just going with what someone else said it was named. I love when they play that song.

[SpuR48]

It's Krypton Fanfare (I think that's the official name) it's from one of the early superman movies. My favorite in the band's arsenal.

yep that's the one. It's my favorite ringtone on my cell :D

[Lalli25]

http://youtube.com/watch?v=59p31LTCGD8

Here is a video with it. It is a pretty cool video.

[Juice4Bruce]

yeah thats the one I was talking about...Not to down on our band at all b/c they are awesome..but I wish they were biggersometimes b/c they play some pretty sweet songs...such as krypton..and I would love to hear it a little louder. I think UGA's band plays it as well and their band is sadly a larger and louder though

[Mastajun]

You are All crazy left wing liberals...except for doc, lol! There IS a difference between being an alum and NOT being an alum. That is fact, no denying. It is also fact that alum (traditionally) are supposed to be the only ones to do the alma mater deal...hold on, what was I writing about? Why am i even trying, who cares, right? whoop-tee-doo-da-f***ing day!

[Mastajun]

that was whoop-tee-doo-da-friggin-day, by the way. friggin libs. Go Cocks! Please Beat Jawja for the love of God!

[doccock]

You are All crazy left wing liberals...except for doc, lol! There IS a difference between being an alum and NOT being an alum. That is fact, no denying. It is also fact that alum (traditionally) are supposed to be the only ones to do the alma mater deal...hold on, what was I writing about? Why am i even trying, who cares, right? whoop-tee-doo-da-f***ing day!

I'll take that as a compliment.
doc

[cockypoppy068]

My bad..... call me a dumb-ass, i guess after all these years,
I'll quiet raising my glass.........

[spurmanski]

Fans cheer their team regardless if they even finished HS. I'm not sure I want to pull the hand (of the Silverspur) who sits next to me down...no ..I dont think so.

What I WOULD like to see is for the whole state of SC, the South and the nation to Hail our every win and our every effort.

Tempest in a Beermug, eh?:lol:

[uscjd2004]

I think this is bullshit. Anyone who loves Carolina should feel perfectly free to raise a toast to her.

This is coming from a person who is a member of the classes of 2001 (BA), 2004 (JD), and 2008 (IMBA).

[scsalesreptile]

So..... back in the 70's, after 3 years at USC, I had to leave and take over the family business due to an ailing father. Got my degree later at a local university. Am I not an almuni? By supporting the Gamecocks since before the days of Frank McGuire, am I deserving to lift my glass? See, this reminds me of the legalistic obsessiveness that split my church. Too many people got caught up in little rules and routines and "that's the way we have always done things" that they forgot why they were there - to worship. In the case of this glass thing, are we there to cheer and support the Gamecocks? Or are we there to glare menacingly at someone who would deign to inappropriately raise their glass because they don't meet YOUR criteria as to what constitutes an alumni - and from reading here that is not a clear cut thing. Someone mentioned the perception of a stadium full of people raising their glasses symbolically in support of their school vs the current awkwardness of some doing it, others not doing it, some not sure and kind of half raising their hands. Does this bring the fans together in a mighty cheer of support for their University? Well, somewhat. If it were encouraged, and not so caught up in who can and cannot participate, it could be a great moment of honoring the University and all that it encompasses. Now it's an OK moment. Of course, the encouragement, or seeking to change things (THE HORROR), would have to come from "Official" sources. Don't stay up nights waiting for the announcement of such.

Note: I changed churches, and found a wonderful grace led congregation. I get to worship properly again. Now, I wonder if grace & mercy could help resolve this little tiff - regardless, I won't be changing my support to another school.

[scsalesreptile]

1

[USCocks3]

I nominate this thread for "most ridiculous football-related topic of the offseason."

As a senior, I will go ahead and make a declaration settling this once and for all. If you are attending or have ever attended a USC school in any capacity, please, by all means raise your glass during the alma mater. In addition, if you have never attended USC in any capacity and just really, really feel like raising your glass during the alma mater, please feel free to do so.

Anyone criticizing another person for their support of Gamecock athletics (in whatever way) in the future will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law; including but no limited to being forced to wear orange and cheer for the Taters for the rest of their natural born life.

That is all.

[usc_thereal]

10-4. This dead horse has been beat. In fact, I thought it had a long time ago.

[RW13]

I didn't really know where to put this, so I just decided to put it in here, since I reference football games.

Let me start by saying many of you will disagree with me on this, and that's fine. That is why I have posted this simply to hear everyone else's thoughts. So, here goes...

It really burns me up inside whenever I am at a game, albeit football, basketball, whatever, and during the end of the alma mater I see just about everyone raising their "glass." The reason this bothers me is that I feel this aspect of our alma mater should be reserved for alumni. I am 23 years old, and I just graduated. And, therefore, this football season will be the first time I have ever raised my glass during the alma mater. Except for the one time I tried to when I was a kid and my dad glared at me and explained that only alumni should do it. Now, I'm not saying my neighbor who is not an alumni can't scream for the cocks or even sing the alma mater, I treat all (well, most) of my fellow gamecock fans as family, I'm just saying I think it is a privelege to get to raise your glass and it should be respectfully reserved for alumni. Furthermore, I HATE it when I look at the student section and 80% is raising a glass. I think this is where the problem stems from. I can remember in 2002 when I had freshman orientation, that was one of the things they taught when they taught the freshmen the alma mater. I just think this is a travesty.

I know there are not any written rules for this. This is just my opinion and I wanted to get your thoughts. Sorry for the long read, thanks for sticking with me, whoever did.

-tbowen

Sounds like your dad is a dick!! j/k.

[Spur's Addiction]

Hell - I used to raise my hand long before I even knew it was a "glass" you toast with. I don't think it's a big deal if everyone does it.

[donbgamecock]

Well do! The audacity of some low life non-Carolina degreed person trying to toast my beloved school because they love it. How can they love it if they have not shed the sweat, fret, tears, and anxieties all of us glorious graduates have shared? There are just some mysteries in this world that we will never find answers. Ya'll will have to excuse me while I quit posting so I can go lather up in my own self recognition...."We hail thee!"

[2000grad]

Well...if it makes anyone feel any better, I transferred while an undergrad, from USC to a christian college. We had chapel twice a week and the first week I was there, we sang our school's alma mater at the end. We got to the last line and I raised my glass...needless to say I was the only one in a church building "toasting" my christian school. I stuck my hands in my pocket whenever we sung the alma mater after that.

[The Yancey]

Hey, lets have a contest and see how many more of the old fans we can alienate!:-x I am an alumnus and I proudly raise my glass in a toast to Mama and I am not at all offended by non grads who do the same. How about all of those people who filled WB when we were 0-21? Many of them had been students but due to life circumstances did not have the opportunity to finish. Others were not able to afford a college education at all. Back then a far smaller percent of the population secured a post secondary education. Yet they declared a heart felt emotional loyalty to USC and supported us with their cheers and their wallets for decades.

These people may not be alumni but I prefer to raise my glass with them than some of the whiny little me-first negative Nellie grads whose posts fumigate message boards like a particularly virulent fart. Present company excepted, of course. All of you know the ones I speak of though. So I say welcome all Gamecocks of good cheer whether they managed to get the sheep's skin or not.

[ColaCock]

http://www.geocities.com/voodoo_sprout/horse.gif

[TaterHater1984]

I'm a freshman. I've raised my glass every time I've heard the alma mater. along with all the other freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors that havn't graduated. And I will keep doing it every time I hear that song.

[eaddy1847]

I didn't really know where to put this, so I just decided to put it in here, since I reference football games.

Let me start by saying many of you will disagree with me on this, and that's fine. That is why I have posted this simply to hear everyone else's thoughts. So, here goes...

It really burns me up inside whenever I am at a game, albeit football, basketball, whatever, and during the end of the alma mater I see just about everyone raising their "glass." The reason this bothers me is that I feel this aspect of our alma mater should be reserved for alumni. I am 23 years old, and I just graduated. And, therefore, this football season will be the first time I have ever raised my glass during the alma mater. Except for the one time I tried to when I was a kid and my dad glared at me and explained that only alumni should do it. Now, I'm not saying my neighbor who is not an alumni can't scream for the cocks or even sing the alma mater, I treat all (well, most) of my fellow gamecock fans as family, I'm just saying I think it is a privelege to get to raise your glass and it should be respectfully reserved for alumni. Furthermore, I HATE it when I look at the student section and 80% is raising a glass. I think this is where the problem stems from. I can remember in 2002 when I had freshman orientation, that was one of the things they taught when they taught the freshmen the alma mater. I just think this is a travesty.

I know there are not any written rules for this. This is just my opinion and I wanted to get your thoughts. Sorry for the long read, thanks for sticking with me, whoever did.

-tbowen

Did you hate it when Eric Norwood raised his glass while being interviewed after the Kentucky game? Someone probably already mentioned this but I didn't feel like going through pages and pages of posts.

[USCya]

Hell I didn't even go to school there (worked there for two years) but I will continue to toast the University that I live for.... I eat, breathe, and sleep Carolina athletics and there is no Alumni that loves the university better than I.

Forever to thee!

[TStone]

I'm hard pressed to discourage ANYONE who feels compelled to show respect for the school to not do so. The line you symbolically raise your glass to reads "Here's a health, Carolina, forever to thee!" It is a toast. By raising your hand to toast this line you are acknowledging to those around you that you agree with the message, which in this case is that you agree with the wish that USC should be a healthy institution long into the future. That is entirely the purpose of a toast... to show your agreement of the topic.

I would understand the argument a lot more if you have a problem with people actually singing the Alma Mater, whose words imply quite literally that you have spent time at USC. However I see no logic in making previous or current attendance USC a prerequisite for simply wishing the school well.

Actually, I find it much MORE of an insult when people make the shaka (http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/42/Gesture_raised_fist_with_thumb_and_pinky_lifted.jp g) sign instead of pretending they're holding a glass. I just kind of look at them like they're idiots. At least they're trying. I correct them from time to time.

[SNEEZ]

I never went to USC in Columbia, I can't afford it
but when I go and the Alma Mater is played, you'd better believe I raise it up.
and if youd ont like it KMA, and I mean that in the nicest possible way.

Just bc I can't go there doesn't mean i shouldn't show my love and respect for the school, I have been accepted but out of state tuition is a bitch at 9k+ per semester plus living expenses etc.

If you want to single yourselves out as being better than we are which is what this will essentially do, then you are an AWFUL representative of the spirit of the University of South Carolina

[USCya]

I'm hard pressed to discourage ANYONE who feels compelled to show respect for the school to not do so. The line you symbolically raise your glass to reads "Here's a health, Carolina, forever to thee!" It is a toast. By raising your hand to toast this line you are acknowledging to those around you that you agree with the message, which in this case is that you agree with the wish that USC should be a healthy institution long into the future. That is entirely the purpose of a toast... to show your agreement of the topic.

I would understand the argument a lot more if you have a problem with people actually singing the Alma Mater, whose words imply quite literally that you have spent time at USC. However I see no logic in making previous or current attendance USC a prerequisite for simply wishing the school well.

Actually, I find it much MORE of an insult when people make the shaka (http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/42/Gesture_raised_fist_with_thumb_and_pinky_lifted.jp g) sign instead of pretending they're holding a glass. I just kind of look at them like they're idiots. At least they're trying. I correct them from time to time.


Cheers bro http://img.fropper.com/zones-images/smileys/xtra/beer_mug_cheers.gif