Alabama lights cigars after defeating Tennessee as part of a long-standing and unique tradition, symbolizing victory over their fierce rival. This ritual specifically occurs after a win against the Volunteers, marking the significance of the annual "Third Saturday in October" rivalry game.
The Genesis of a Tradition: 1961's Breakthrough
The origins of this distinct tradition trace back to the 1961 football season. Alabama's athletic trainer, Jim Goostree, initiated the practice. Goostree, a proud alumnus of the University of Tennessee, made a memorable gesture after Alabama secured a crucial victory over the Volunteers.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Year Initiated | 1961 |
| Initiator | Jim Goostree (Alabama's athletic trainer and Tennessee graduate) |
| Catalyst | Alabama's victory over Tennessee, breaking a 5-game losing streak |
| Occasion | Celebration of a win against a significant rival |
| What It Signifies | Triumph, bragging rights in a historic rivalry |
After Alabama's win, which famously broke a five-game losing streak against Tennessee, Goostree handed out cigars to the victorious Crimson Tide players. This act served as a celebratory mark of triumph and a way to acknowledge the monumental achievement of overcoming their long-standing nemesis. What began as a spontaneous gesture quickly evolved into a cherished post-game ritual.
Significance of the Cigar Tradition
The cigar-lighting ceremony has become deeply embedded in the Alabama-Tennessee rivalry, serving several key purposes:
- Symbol of Victory: It's a tangible and visual representation of winning one of college football's most storied rivalries.
- Team Cohesion: The shared act of lighting cigars fosters camaraderie and celebrates collective effort.
- Historical Connection: It links current teams and fans to the rich history and past triumphs of the program.
- Bragging Rights: For the winning team, it’s a public declaration of dominance over their opponent.
Despite various changes in NCAA rules and attitudes towards tobacco products, the cigar tradition has persisted, albeit often discreetly. It underscores the profound importance and intense competition associated with the annual contest between the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Tennessee Volunteers. For more details on this enduring practice, you can refer to resources like the Tennessee vs. Alabama: The Historic Cigar Game Tradition Continues article.
