A siren blares across the campus as a team of highly trained individuals grab their rifles and sprint to the Tiger. The line has been breached. They know that the student body is with them in spirit as they form up to fight the insidious threat to our symbol of school spirit down to the last man. Fortunately, this isn’t what guarding the Tiger means. Instead, each class just takes watch on their respective nights from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. throughout Battle of the Ravine week in hopes that so many warm bodies loitering around will deter any vandalism.
Guarding the tiger is one of the traditions that characterizes Battle of the Ravine Week and was originally started because of past attempts at vandalism.
“There is a definite threat of the Tiger being vandalized,” said Justin Young, Student Senate president. “It is the very symbol of our university, and every Ouachitonian takes pride in what it stands for. The unmentionables across the street know how deeply we are connected to the Tiger, and will definitely attempt to vandalize it.
“There have already been minor attacks, one of which even knocked out a (Tiger) tooth.”
Although there may be an attempt to vandalize the Tiger this year, it’s not likely to be successful. With so many people watching it, any element of stealth would be lost if someone were to try and do anything.
“The men of Rho Sigma lead the tradition, but Student Senate has been trying to incorporate the individual classes,” said Lindsey Fowler, Student Senate external vice president.
Fowler said the juniors guarded the Tiger Monday night. There were tents and sleeping bags, and some of the social clubs put on events during this time.
“Last year we had some Henderson Students visit us at about 4 a.m., but we heard them coming and it wasn’t a big deal. If anything serious happens, Safety is on call,” Fowler said.
Each class has taken a night out of the week to guard the Tiger, and the entire campus will stay out to guard it tomorrow night.
“It’s a great time to bond and form friendships within your whole class, rather than just your major or your social club,” Fowler said.
To draw students outside and encourage a sense of unity, the various social clubs staged activities during the week.
Tri Chi will serve hot chocolate and s’mores, Kappa Chi held a car bash and Rho Sigma will have a bonfire (tomorrow).
Guarding the Tiger may have the practical purpose of avoiding vandalism to school property, but more than anything, it’s about showing spirit and support for the school and for our traditions.
“Last year, the freshman class had the biggest turnout with over 100 people staying out all night to guard the Tiger,” Young said. “From my experience, your night with your class will be awesome.
“It’s an incredible experience for the whole campus to come together for one common goal.”
