End of Year Recap!
- Jaden Goodin
- May 5
- 3 min read
Celebrating 90 Years of Saddle Tramps
This past year marked a special chapter in the story of Saddle Tramps as the organization
celebrated its 90th anniversary. More than a milestone, the year reflected pride, tradition,
and energy that have defined Saddle Tramps for nearly a century. From historic
achievements to meaningful moments of connection, it was a year that honored the past
while building momentum for the future.
Football - This fall, Texas Tech Football achieved something truly special, securing its firstever Big 12 Championship with a win over BYU. President Lawrence Schovanec generously
provided a $75 per diem to each Tramp who made it to Dallas to help offset the cost of
attending the game. The momentum carried over into the postseason, where the Red
Raiders earned a spot in the College Football Playoff and a first-round bye. For Saddle
Tramps, being part of that atmosphere, standing alongside a team making history during
such a milestone year, was a powerful reminder of the role this organization plays in
shaping the spirit of Texas Tech.
College Gameday - That spirit was showcased on a national stage as Saddle Tramps
appeared on ESPN’s College GameDay not once, but twice, first for the home football
matchup against BYU, and again for the home basketball game against Houston. Early
mornings, high energy, and a sea of red and black created moments that represented not
just the organization, but the 90-year legacy behind it.
Ex-Tramp Reception - In the spring, Saddle Tramps had the privilege of hosting its first-ever
spring reception for alumni and their families, bringing generations together in one place to
celebrate 90 years of Saddle Tramps. It was more than an event, it was a moment. Alumni
reconnected, shared stories, and reflected on the organization's lasting impact. Seeing that
legacy come to life during the 90th anniversary year served as a powerful reminder of what
makes Saddle Tramps truly special. This is a tradition the organization looks forward to
continuing and growing in the years ahead.
With the end of the semester and school year comes two of the biggest traditions in Saddle
Tramps: the Passing of the Guns and Elections.
Passing of the Guns - The Passing of the Guns marks a special moment as Raider Reds
who are moving on are unmasked and pass the guns to the next generation. This year,
Saddle Tramps recognizes and thanks Zach Van Horn (Weatherford, TX, Agricultural
Business) and Wayland Damron (Idalou, TX, Communication Studies) for their service as
Raider Red. Their impact and the memories they created for thousands will not be
forgotten.
New Members - This semester, Saddle Tramps added three new members: Jackson Pate
(Houston, TX, Computer Engineering), Nicolo Hammond (Kyle, TX, Pre-Nursing), and Gabe
McMillen (Denison, TX, Business).
New Officers - Saddle Tramps also held elections and are proud to introduce the 2026–
2027 Executive Committee:
President: Joshua Loubriel (San Antonio, TX, Political Science)
First Vice President: Jonathan Cortez (Waxahachie, TX, Human Sciences/Nursing)
Second Vice President: Jackson Barrett (Denton, TX, Geology)
Secretary: Clark Allen (Pampa, TX, General Studies)
Treasurer: Matthew Gault (Celina, TX, Accounting)
Treasurer’s Assistant: Hunter Cole (Porter, TX, Accounting)
Sergeant-At-Arms: Franklin Armendariz (El Paso, TX, Mechanical Engineering)
Sergeant-At-Arms: Hunter Lovell (Claude, TX, Mechanical Engineering)
Each of these moments, on the field, on national television, and within the Saddle Tramps
community, is made possible by the foundation built over the past 90 years. That legacy
continues to guide and inspire each new generation.
Donations – If you would like to make a donation to Saddle Tramps, you can do so online at
this website address:
=8425&bledit=1&dids=4268&appealcode=TTUDL
If you would rather send a check, you can mail it to: TTU Office of Advancement, ATTN:
Leslie Myatt, Box 42010, Lubbock, TX 79409. Please put “Saddle Tramp Support Fund” in
the Memo.
As Saddle Tramps looks ahead, it does so with pride in its history and excitement for what’s
to come. While so much has been built over the past nine decades, the best of Saddle
Tramps is yet to come.
Until next semester's edition of The Bell Ringer, Wreck ‘em Tech
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