Tampabay.com
DECEMBER 28, 2006

Best Gator traditions

Day4forblogchomp
The University of Florida is more about wins and losses (well, if not, it should be). The traditions of Gator football are memorable too. Here are our favorites.

Top 5 Gator traditions:

5. Albert and Alberta: Mr. and Mrs. Stuffed Animal are perhaps the best-known male-female mascot pair in college football.

4. The Swamp: Nicknamed "the Swamp" by then-coach Steve Spurrier (because "only gators get out alive"), the stadium is a pit of despair for visiting teams. Fans swelter in the stands, which were originally built in a sink hole on campus. (See pre-game Jumbotron presentation)

3. Mr. Two Bits: Tampa's George Edmonson Jr. has "retired," but he makes an occasional
appearance in his trademark orange-and-blue tie and yellow shirt to
lead fans at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in a round of the Two Bits cheer. (Click for video)

2. We Are the Boys: At the end of the third quarter, Florida fans wrap arms around each other, sway to this song and sing. (See video here and here)

1. Gator chomp: Fans and Gator players alike revel in slapping their arms together in Jaws-like fashion whenever the spirit captivates them. Like after touchdowns. Or when the opposing team slinks onto the field. (See video)

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About the blogger

Florida Gators fans, welcome to the Gator Report for all your news about Gators football, basketball and all UF sports. It's written by University of Florida beat writer Antonya English and the staff of the Tampa Bay Times. We invite your comments and participation.

E-mail Antonya English:
english@tampabay.com

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