Oct. 15, 2007
I received a number of e-mails this week from Virginia Tech fans who were apologizing for cheers the Hokie fans made during the playing of our Alma Mater. Every one of the letters I received understand the importance of that song for our fans, just as the playing of the alma mater is for Virginia Tech.
The playing of the Alma Maters was back-to-back during the pregame and the Virginia Tech fans went into a “Let’s Go Hokies” cheer at the conclusion of their alma mater. Many of their fans realized that the Clemson Alma Mater was being played right after their song.
Every letter I received stated that they never would have cheered if they realized our Alma Mater was being played. Having worked at Virginia Tech for many years in the 1970s I am aware of the respect Virginia Tech fans have for their traditions and the traditions of the opposition.
We accept the apology of the Virginia Tech fans and realize their cheering during our Alma Mater was inadvertent.
Below is one of the letters I received.
In Solid Orange, Terry Don Phillips Director of Athletics
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Dear Dr. Phillips,
I wanted to explain that the Hokies were cheering during the playing of the CLEMSON alma mater because we never heard that the Clemson Alma Mater would follow the Tech Alma mater. The band was facing away from us and we barely heard the Tech song….
I also want to congratulate you and Clemson University for the truly magnificent half time tribute to the heroes of the service and their families. It was my first trip to a Clemson game since 1965 and I must say one of the most positive road games that I have attended, the fans, and teams show great sportsmanship and hospitality to each other and it was a truly positive experience.
Walter Gervin
April 26, 2024
April 25, 2024
