Football Jock Rally with USC Marching Band
One of the band’s most iconic traditions is the Friday afternoon jock rally, which began in the 1960s. During this event, the Trojan Marching Band and USC Song cheer on the football players after their Friday practice. It’s a great chance for the players and coaches to interact with fans, share some inspiring words, and get everyone excited for the upcoming game.
USC Marching Band Concert and Parade to the Coliseum
On game days, the Trojan Marching Band assembles on the steps of Heritage Hall two and a half hours before kickoff. The band begins warming up for the game and treats fans to a lively concert afterward. With lots of energy, they march to the Coliseum, stopping to perform a few times and getting everyone pumped up.
Kicking the Flagpoles
Three flagpoles are part of a beloved USC tradition at the entrance to USC’s University Park Campus on Exposition Boulevard at Trousdale Parkway. It’s a custom for Trojans to kick the base of these poles for good luck before heading to the Coliseum. On game days, you will see fans trying their luck. The tradition started with the Trojan Marching Band, who kicked the poles and marched down Trousdale to alert others of their presence. After fans observed the band doing this, it became a tradition for USC fans and is now a cherished part of USC home games.
Rubbing George Tirebiter’s Nose
In the 1940s, a stray dog named George Tirebiter was adopted by USC students. He became the university’s mascot and a beloved figure on campus. George was known for his playful antics, including biting car tires and leading the Trojan Marching Band. Today, George is remembered with a statue on campus. During home games, USC fans walking toward the Coliseum rub George on the nose for good luck.
