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Ringing in Old Traditions

September 06, 2018 | by Bri Gore

LU bell

 The Lamar Spirit Bell was originally donated to “Lamar Tech” by the Santa Fe Railroad Company over 50 years ago. It replaced “Big Mac,” the civil war cannon named for former university president F.L. McDonald, at football games to celebrate scores after Southland Conference banned the use of cannons, citing safety concerns.

The bell was rediscovered in one of ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ’s storage facilities. Officials wasted no time in having the bell restored so that it could be reintroduced to Cardinal Football for the 2018 season.

The revitalized ringer drew attention from . Before it’s retirement, Spirit Bell duties fell to members of ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ, then Lamar Tech, cheerleading team. Former members Carl Stockholm and Genie West (née Montie) were among the first to ring the bell at its introduction in 1966. Both returned to the field on September 1, 2018, to initiate the first game ring in over 30 years, passing their duties to the newest generation of LU cheerleaders and opening up a new era of tradition.

Former Cheerleaders ring spirit bell
“LU athletics wants to celebrate champion in the classroom, champions in the competition arena and champions in life,” said LU Director of Athletics Marco Born. “Traditions are important in building pride. Resurrecting this age-old tradition of ringing the bell after every LU score encourages and celebrates successes on the field.

Spirit Bell History

Archived Article
Original Cheerleaders
Category: General

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