College football is such a popular sport in part because of its rich
traditions. There is not a more unique example of that tradition than
the cowbell at Mississippi State. I appreciate the willingness of the
SEC's athletic directors and presidents to work with us to find a way to
preserve a great tradition and still remain within the framework of SEC
rules and regulations.</p>
For nearly 80 years, MSU's fans have embraced the cowbell as an
expression of school spirit and have passed on this tradition to sons
and daughters, grandsons and granddaughters. I can speak to that
experience first-hand, remembering the pride I felt at age nine upon
receiving my first cowbell from my father and just 17 months ago when I
was presented a shiny chrome cowbell upon becoming president of
Mississippi State. I related to my colleagues the passion those
cowbells evoked for me and shared that MSU fans across the nation felt
the same emotions. I made the point that I was not speaking simply as
the institutional executive officer at Mississippi State, but also as a
lifelong Bulldog with deeply-held feelings about this issue. Scott
Stricklin spoke with the same authority and passion in making his case
to fellow athletic directors.</p>
This alternative means that for the first time in 36 years, MSU fans
can walk through the gates at Davis Wade Stadium with cowbells proudly
in hand. The one-year agreement will allow our fans to ring their
cowbells at appropriate times and require them to refrain from ringing
at other times, in accordance with established guidelines for other
"institutionally-regulated" noise. Violation of the policy would result
in fines levied against the university. We have work ahead to educate
our fans and alumni about the new arrangement, but this is great news
for Mississippi State. It represents the beginning of a new chapter in
support of our great cowbell tradition.</p>