Calling the Hogs

Calling the Hogs is a tradition of University of Arkansas fans and alumni. The origin and date of first use are not known.[1] The cheer is the best-known cheer at the University.[2]

The tradition is said to have started in the 1920s when farmers attempted to encourage a Razorback football team that was losing.[3] The next home game produced a group who repeated the cheer often.[3]

The Hog call is not confined to Razorback Stadium, where it is used before every kickoff, and may be used in locales such as airports and hotels where Razorback fans unite.[2]

Procedure

Fans begin a Hog Call with a Woo, which increases in volume and also includes fans raising their arms with fingers wiggling up and down. Razorback purists recommend the Woo should last eight seconds. The arms are brought down during the "pig" and the hands are clenched into a fist. "Sooie" is accompanied with a fist pump. After the third call, "Razorbacks" is added with two additional fist pumps.

Lyrics

Woooooooooo, Pig ! Sooie!
Woooooooooo, Pig ! Sooie!
Woooooooooo, Pig ! Sooie!
Razorbacks!

References

  1. ^ "Arkansas Football Traditions." Traditions - University of Arkansas. Retrieved on February 11, 2009.
  2. ^ a b "A Proper Hog Call." arkansasrazorbacks.com 18 July 2008. Retrieved on February 11, 2009.
  3. ^ a b "Calling the Hogs." Website. University of Arkansas Alumni Association. Retrieved on February 11, 2009.