Gameday in the South often looks a certain way. It wouldn’t be a Saturday if it weren’t for the tailgates, team colors and chants heard on college campuses. At Samford University, however, one more element is essential in order to have a proper football game: Moses.
It probably helps that Samford’s long Christian tradition finds a way even into its student section, but Moses is a popular figure during football season for more than just that reason alone. He is the voice of the students during games and an example to all Samford sports fans.
Moses appears every Saturday to lead Samford’s student section, the Red Sea, in cheering for the football team- always standing as close to the field as possible. He sports a gray beard, a brown robe, and a Samford visor, with a shepherding staff to complete the look. Strange as it seems, Moses is a beloved Samford tradition.
“I have always liked that Moses is someone who devotes a significant amount of time to an aspect important to Samford,” Samford sports fan Julianna Greene said. “I think that students such as him exemplify people making the most of their Samford experience and wanting that for others as well.”
There’s a lot more to being Moses than meets the eye. According to the anonymous Samford student who is currently fulfilling the role of Moses, “He goes to all of the tailgates, walking around the Quad greeting people and getting them excited for the game.”
While having such a recognizable and important role is fun, the student said “there are many games that I leave the stadium without being able to talk, but it is worth it knowing that I had fun, and hopefully helped others do the same.”
If you’re ever at a Samford football game, keep your eyes peeled for Moses and don’t be afraid to say hello. You may never know who’s behind the beard, but you’ll have taken part in a popular, recognizable, and growing Samford tradition that’s sure to last.
Sydney Berry, Staff Writer
