The iconic Gig ‘Em sign, with its extended thumb and clasped index and middle fingers, is more than just a hand gesture. It’s a symbol of unity, pride, and unwavering support for Texas A&M University. Its origins can be traced back to the early 1900s, when cadets at the university used it as a way to rally and cheer on their fellow Aggies.
Over the years, the Gig ‘Em sign has become synonymous with Texas A&M and has been adopted by students, alumni, fans, and supporters worldwide. It is a visual representation of the Aggie spirit, embodying the values of tradition, respect, excellence, and leadership.
The Evolution of the Gig ‘Em Sign
The Gig ‘Em sign has evolved over time, with variations and interpretations emerging throughout its history. Here are some notable milestones:
- 1907: The first recorded use of the Gig ‘Em sign is attributed to cadet Joseph LeConte, class of 1908, who used it as a rally cry during a football game.
- 1914: The sign is officially adopted as the university’s rallying gesture.
- 1950s: The Gig ‘Em sign begins to be used more widely outside of Texas A&M, becoming a recognizable symbol of the university.
- 1980s: The sign is featured on official merchandise, including t-shirts, hats, and stickers.
- 1990s: The Gig ‘Em sign becomes a mainstay at sporting events and alumni gatherings.
- 2000s: The sign is used as a symbol of pride and unity by Aggies around the world.
The Meaning and Impact of the Gig ‘Em Sign
The Gig ‘Em sign holds immense significance for Texas A&M University and its community. It represents:
- Unity: The sign fosters a sense of belonging and connection among Aggies, regardless of their location or background.
- Pride: It is a symbol of pride in the university, its accomplishments, and its values.
- Support: The sign conveys unwavering support for Aggie teams, students, and alumni.
- Aggie Spirit: It embodies the unique and unwavering spirit of the Aggie community.
Applications of the Gig ‘Em Sign
Beyond its traditional use as a rallying gesture, the Gig ‘Em sign has been creatively applied in various contexts:
- Art: The sign has been incorporated into artwork, sculptures, and murals.
- Design: It has been used in marketing campaigns, branding, and merchandise.
- Technology: The sign has been used in virtual reality applications and video games.
- Education: It has been used in educational programs to promote school spirit and pride.
- Fundraising: It has been used to raise funds for scholarships, programs, and university initiatives.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When using the Gig ‘Em sign, it is important to avoid common mistakes:
- Pointing the Thumb Down: The thumb should always be extended upward, not downward, as this can be interpreted as a negative gesture.
- Crossing the Fingers: The index and middle fingers should be clasped together, not crossed.
- Overexaggerating the Gesture: The sign should be performed with enthusiasm but without excessive movement.
- Using it in Inappropriate Situations: The Gig ‘Em sign is not appropriate for all settings or contexts. It is best reserved for situations where it is appropriate to express Aggie pride or support.
Why the Gig ‘Em Sign Matters
The Gig ‘Em sign matters because it:
- Preserves Tradition: It is a tangible link to the university’s rich history and tradition.
- Fosters Unity: It creates a sense of community and belonging among Aggies.
- Inspires Pride: It generates pride in Texas A&M and its core values.
- Promotes the University: It serves as a recognizable and effective marketing tool for the university.
Benefits of Embracing the Gig ‘Em Sign
Embracing the Gig ‘Em sign brings several benefits:
- Connection to Aggie History: It allows you to connect with the generations of Aggies who have used the sign before you.
- Sense of Belonging: It creates a feeling of community and shared experience among Aggies.
- Pride and Enthusiasm: It evokes pride and enthusiasm for Texas A&M.
- Marketing and Branding: It can be used to promote the university and build its brand.
FAQs
Q: What is the origin of the Gig ‘Em sign?
A: The Gig ‘Em sign originated with cadet Joseph LeConte, class of 1908, who used it as a rally cry during a football game in 1907.
Q: What does the Gig ‘Em sign represent?
A: The Gig ‘Em sign represents unity, pride, support, and the Aggie spirit.
Q: When should I use the Gig ‘Em sign?
A: The Gig ‘Em sign is appropriate for situations where it expresses Aggie pride or support, such as sporting events, alumni gatherings, or university-related functions.
Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when using the Gig ‘Em sign?
A: Common mistakes include pointing the thumb down, crossing the fingers, overexaggerating the gesture, or using it in inappropriate settings.