why is it called the terrible towel

Direms

2 min read

·

15-04-2025

19

0

Share

The "Terrible Towel," a simple yellow towel emblazoned with a black script "Terrible Towel," is more than just a piece of cloth to Pittsburgh Steelers fans. It's a symbol of their unwavering loyalty, a rallying cry, and a piece of team history. But why is it called the "Terrible Towel"? The story is as much a part of Steelers lore as the six Super Bowl wins.

The Origin Story: Myron Cope and a Broadcast Brainstorm

The Terrible Towel's creation is credited to Myron Cope, a beloved Steelers broadcaster who worked for KDKA-TV and radio. During a 1975 game against the Baltimore Colts, Cope, known for his colorful commentary, noticed a lack of energy in the stadium. He spontaneously decided to bring something to energize the crowd.

From Humble Beginnings to Iconic Status

That "something" was a simple yellow bath towel, which he held aloft during the broadcast, urging viewers to bring their own towels to the next game. The idea, born from a moment of inspiration, quickly caught fire. Cope, however, didn't initially call it the "Terrible Towel."

Instead, he started with a more straightforward description, simply encouraging fans to wave their towels. The "Terrible" moniker arose organically. As the towel became a fixture in Steelers games, and fans embraced the ritual, "Terrible" – a term often used by Cope himself to describe the Steelers' opponents and the game's intensity – became intrinsically linked with the towel itself. It was a perfect pairing, capturing both the team's ferocity and the enthusiastic support of its fans.

More Than Just a Towel: A Symbol of Pittsburgh Pride

The Terrible Towel transcended its initial purpose, evolving into a potent symbol of Pittsburgh pride and Steelers fandom. It's become a tradition passed down through generations, with fans of all ages wielding the towel, regardless of their personal history with the team. Its popularity isn't confined to Heinz Field; you'll see Terrible Towels waving at games across the country and even internationally.

The Ritual: Waving the Towel

The act of waving the Terrible Towel is more than just a display of team spirit; it's a ritualistic act of shared participation. The collective waving of thousands of yellow towels creates a sea of vibrant color, a visible manifestation of the united passion of Steelers fans. It's a visual reminder of the community forged through shared love for the team.

A Lasting Legacy: The Terrible Towel Today

Myron Cope's legacy extends far beyond his broadcasting career. The Terrible Towel remains a powerful symbol of Steelers fandom, a testament to the enduring power of tradition, and a reminder that sometimes, the simplest ideas can have the most profound impact. Today, the Terrible Towel is more than just a piece of merchandise; it's a living, breathing part of the Steelers' story, a symbol passed down, waved proudly, and forever intertwined with the team's identity.

The next time you see a sea of yellow towels waving in unison at a Steelers game, remember that you're witnessing a piece of living history – the legacy of the Terrible Towel. And you'll understand exactly why it's called the Terrible Towel: because it embodies the terrible intensity, passion, and unwavering support of the Pittsburgh Steelers faithful.

Further Reading:

• [Link to a reputable article about Myron Cope's life and career]
• [Link to the official Terrible Towel website or Steelers merchandise store]