Tiger Traditions

LSU’s long and storied past is evident in many of our campus traditions. But over the years, some traditions have faded into the past only to be forgotten by the younger generations.

For years, the freshman class was the target of many “initiations.” Known as “dogs” to the upperclassmen, freshmen were reminded throughout their first year that their place was at the bottom of the University’s social ladder.

Here’s a look a few freshman traditions of old.

		Shaved heads—Beginning in 1911, all entering male freshmen had their heads shaved. Upperclassmen jealous of a young freshman the coeds found handsome started the tradition, which continued until the 1960s. Male freshmen were also required to shave their heads if LSU lost its football game against Tulane.
		Pajama Game—Male freshmen had to attend the first pep rally and the first home football game of the season in their pajamas. Prior to the first game, the male freshmen had to leave their shoes in a pile outside of the stadium.The male freshmen also had to be dateless for both events.
		Freshman Day—In 1920 freshmen banned together in protest of the hazing and organized Freshman Day, which followed freshman elections. On this day, freshmen were dismissed from all classes, and the president of the freshman class and his consort reigned as king and queen over a planned program and dance. The freshman flag flew over campus to commemorate the day. Freshman Week became official in the 1930s and concluded with this day of all days for freshmen.
		Freshman Caps—All freshman males had to wear beanies to indicate their standings on campus. The “dogs” were allowed to discard their caps on Freshman Day.

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Written by Laura Fonti | University Relations
May 2003

Louisiana State University
Baton Rouge, LA 70803
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