Terrible Towel
Waved in defiance, raised in triumph: the gold standard of Steelers pride.
The Terrible Towel is the gold rally flag of Pittsburgh Steelers fandom, recognized globally as one of professional sports' most enduring traditions. Introduced in 1975 by radio icon Myron Cope, this simple piece of fabric generates noise and unifies the stadium under a wave of color. Beyond its role as a visual signal for fans to chant on third downs or after big plays, the towel represents the Steel City's resilience. While the tradition supports general team initiatives and community efforts, it is a commercial product rather than a direct donation mechanism per sale.
- Creator
- Myron Cope
- Year Introduced
- 1975
- Primary Color
- Golden Yellow
- Beneficiary
- Allegheny Valley School
- Status
- Active Tradition (40+ years)
- Cultural Impact
- Global Recognition
Lore & Background
The concept was born from frustration during the 1975 season. Myron Cope, the legendary voice of the franchise, grew exasperated by the quiet crowds at Three Rivers Stadium that failed to match the team's intensity. He urged fans to bring yellow dish towels to wave, creating a visual wall meant to amplify noise and intimidate opponents. The tradition officially debuted during the regular season on November 23, 1975, against the Baltimore Colts. Over decades, the prop evolved into a spiritual totem, surviving the move from Three Rivers Stadium to Heinz Field (now Acrisure Stadium). It links generations of supporters, connecting those who witnessed Franco Harris' Immaculate Reception to modern-day fans.
In Their Own Story
The air inside Acrisure Stadium is thick with cold steel and anticipation. On third down, the quarterback calls an audible, and a low rumble begins in the lower bowl. Suddenly, thousands of golden rectangles snap into the air at once. The sound is not just fabric flapping; it is a collective roar of history and hope. In Section 120, a father lifts his grandfather's faded towel, its edges worn from decades of use, while next to him, a teenager waves a pristine new one with equal fervor. As the play develops, the sea of gold sways in unison, a rhythmic pulse that seems to shake the very foundations of the stadium. The opposing quarterback glances up, eyes wide at the blinding wall of yellow, before the snap is made and the noise reaches a deafening crescendo.
Reader's Guide
The Terrible Towel is the heartbeat of game day. For over four decades, fans have adhered to an unwritten code: wave your towel with pride, but never let it touch the ground. To maximize its effect, raise it high during third-down plays or immediately following a big play for the Steelers. When waving, sync with the crowd's rhythm—a collective snap creates more noise than individual flapping. Whether you keep a pristine one in a frame or use a battle-worn replica from the 1970s, the intent remains the same: to amplify the Black and Gold.
Did You Know?
- The Terrible Towel made its official debut on November 23, 1975, during a regular-season game against the Baltimore Colts, not before the playoffs.
- Myron Cope was a dedicated board member and benefactor of the Allegheny Valley School, though records do not support the claim that he served as its chairman.
- The towel was originally intended only for home games but quickly became a staple for fans traveling to away games and Super Bowls worldwide.
- In 2008, the NFL recognized the Terrible Towel as one of the greatest fan traditions in professional sports history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who invented the Terrible Towel?
Legendary Steelers radio broadcaster Myron Cope introduced this gold rally flag to fans in 1975. He created it specifically to help supporters make more noise and unify the stadium atmosphere during games.
When do fans wave the towel?
Supporters typically raise their towels on third downs or immediately after big plays to signal cheers and create a visual wave of color. This coordinated movement helps generate energy that travels directly to the players on the field.
What does the Terrible Towel represent?
The towel stands as a symbol of Pittsburgh's resilience and enduring pride within the Steel City community. It has evolved into one of professional sports' most recognizable traditions, recognized globally by fans beyond just local supporters.
Does purchasing a towel donate to charity?
While the tradition supports general team initiatives and community efforts, the towels are primarily commercial products rather than direct donation mechanisms per sale. Historically, proceeds have been associated with beneficiaries like the Allegheny Valley School through Cope's legacy.
How long has this tradition lasted?
This active tradition began in 1975 and remains a staple of Steelers culture more than forty years later. It continues to be waved defiantly or triumphantly by fans at every home game without signs of fading away.