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Clemson University recognizes that college can be a big transition for
families, and we want to help prepare you the best we can. We have come
up with some great resources within the Clemson community and outside
of the community we have found helpful for families. We recommend these
books and social media outlets to help you understand the experience your
student is going through, while offering you a way to stay connected and
appropriately involved throughout this exciting time!
FINDING YOUR CONNECTION TO CLEMSON
As with any institution over time, the spirit of a place — its buildings,
its people and its community — allows traditions to unfold. A simple action
evolves into a rite of passage or an annual event, a word into a legendary
saying or a rallying call for fans. A place becomes a gathering spot for
friends long after their student days have passed. Clemson University knows
such traditions. Steeped in its history as a military college and now as a
major research university, Clemson has a unique essence that pervades
its campus and the surrounding community. From the stories of old military
days to campus buildings to the people who have made Clemson special,
the traditions at Clemson University unite people forever.
Solid Orange Tradition
Every Friday, students, faculty, staff and alumni everywhere can be found
wearing Clemson orange in a show of unity and pride.
Tiger Rag
In 1942, student band director Dean Ross found the sheet music for “Tiger
Rag” in an Atlanta music store and brought it back to campus to play at
football games. “Tiger Fanfare” by band director Mark Spede was added
in 2003; today, the band has more than 15 ways to play what’s known
as “the song that shakes the Southland.”
Howard’s Rock
Named for legendary Coach Frank Howard, the rock was brought to Clemson
from Death Valley, Calif., by 1919 alumnus S.C. Jones. The rock was first
placed on a pedestal at the top of “The Hill” on Sept. 24, 1966. Before a
game against Wake Forest on Sept. 23, 1967, Howard told his players if they
would give 110 percent, they could have the privilege of rubbing the rock.
The Tigers won that game with a 23–6 victory. The white flint rock still sits
at the top of “The Hill,” and Tiger football players rub it for good luck before
each home game.
Running Down “The Hill”
Running down “The Hill” originally started out of practicality. Before the
west stands were built, the football team dressed at Fike Field House and
ran to the gate and down the hill onto the field. Today, with the sound of
“YOUR CLEMSON TIGERS,” a cannon fires, the band plays “Tiger Rag,”
and thousands of orange-clad fans cheer the moment when the Tiger football
team runs down the grassy hill onto the field. This tradition has been dubbed
“the most exciting 25 seconds in college football.”
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