When Lubbock residents attend a Texas Tech home game, the first thing they see is the unmistakable “Guns Up” hand signal flashing across the stands. While the gesture is now a staple of Red Raider pride, many fans are unaware of its humble origins.
Alumnus L. Glenn Dippel’s Inspiration
Glenn Dippel, a graduate of the Texas Tech class of 1961, returned to his hometown after living in Austin and grew weary of seeing the University of Texas’s “Hook ’em Horns” sign everywhere. Determined to give his alma mater a unique rallying symbol, Dippel looked to the university’s mascot, Raider Red, who brandishes raised pistols during games.
He adapted the image by extending his index finger and thumb while tucking the remaining three fingers into his palm, forming the silhouette of a gun. The simple gesture quickly caught on among fellow alumni and students, becoming the signature hand sign for Texas Tech athletics.
From Campus Tradition to Global Recognition
Since its debut, “Guns Up” has been displayed at football, basketball, and baseball games, as well as at community events and alumni gatherings. The sign serves as a rallying cry for Red Raiders, a visual declaration of victory, and a unifying emblem for the university’s supporters worldwide.
Beyond the hand sign, Texas Tech boasts a rich tapestry of traditions. The school’s mascot, Raider Red, the “Red Raiders” nickname coined by a sports editor in 1936, and the evolution of the university’s branding—from the proposed “Dogies” to the current “Matadors”—all reflect a deep sense of heritage that the “Guns Up” gesture helps to reinforce.
Why Traditions Matter to Lubbock
For Lubbock residents, Texas Tech traditions are more than just symbols; they are a source of community pride and a reminder of the city’s longstanding connection to higher education and athletics. The “Guns Up” sign, in particular, embodies the spirit of perseverance and unity that resonates with families, faith‑centered groups, and longtime supporters of the Red Raiders.
Local businesses, such as the Lubbock‑based apparel shop Signature Stag, often feature the hand sign on merchandise, further cementing its place in the city’s cultural fabric. As the university looks toward another century of achievement, the “Guns Up” tradition stands as a testament to the power of a simple, home‑grown idea.
Looking Ahead
Future generations of students and fans will continue to flash the “Guns Up” sign, keeping the legacy of Glenn Dippel alive. Whether at a packed stadium or a small gathering in a Lubbock coffee shop, the gesture remains a proud reminder that Texas Tech’s spirit endures.
Original reporting: News/Talk 790 KFYO (Lubbock) — read the source article.
