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a wood and paper tiger is set aflame with fireworks on either wide

Rivalry and roaring flames

Behind the scenes with USC’s Tiger Burn team

Each fall as the crisp November air sets in, the University of South Carolina comes alive with the spirit of rivalry. While the Carolina-Clemson football game may take center stage, another cherished tradition lights up the campus — literally. This is the annual Tiger Burn, an event nearly as old as the football game itself, fueling the Gamecocks’ spirit and the century-long rivalry between USC and Clemson.

The Tiger Burn tradition dates back to 1902, born out of a full-scale riot following South Carolina’s unexpected victory over Clemson. The original conflict was sparked by a drawing of a gamecock crowing triumphantly over a defeated tiger, which enraged Clemson cadets. The students from both schools eventually agreed to burn the poster to defuse tensions, thus laying the foundation for the now-beloved Tiger Burn tradition. Today, it has evolved into an annual pep rally that brings together students, alumni and the USC community.

For over a decade, the massive wooden tiger has been designed and constructed by students from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and more recently, members of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE). This year’s tiger is a towering 20-foot structure, showcasing intricate designs and embodying the hard work of USC’s engineering students.

“ASME has led the build for 51 years,” says Trotter Roberts, this year’s build manager and a senior majoring in mechanical engineering. “It’s become a rite of passage for many of us. It’s chaotic but fulfilling.

"It’s not just about constructing the tiger. It’s about bringing people together to create something that stands for our university’s spirit.”

The Tiger Burn team is a diverse group with members from various majors and backgrounds. For many, it’s an opportunity to learn new skills, make connections and experience a piece of USC tradition.

A year in the making

While most students are just gearing up for the fall semester, the Tiger Burn team begins planning the project as early as the previous spring.

“The design process starts with brainstorming ideas and creating a detailed CAD model over the summer,” Roberts explains. “We have to think through every detail, from the structure’s stability to how it will burn safely.”

four students work on a wood and paper structure that will resemble a tiger

Given the scale of the event, safety is a top priority for the team. The design undergoes rigorous testing using Finite Element Analysis to ensure it can withstand the flames without collapsing prematurely. The build process not only involves constructing the tiger but also collaborating with Gamecock Entertainment to secure permits, coordinate with the fire marshal and plan event logistics.

Daniel Chavez, a senior in computer science, reflected on the lessons learned from the project. “We joke a lot about safety here,” he says. “There’s this running joke about how we’re all like, ‘Careful, SpongeBob! Careful, SpongeBob!’ every time someone uses a staple gun or cuts a piece of paper. We take safety seriously, but you’ve got to have a little fun with it, right?”

For many students, the hands-on experience of working on Tiger Burn is invaluable. Zach Arvelo, a junior in mechanical engineering, joined the team for the first time this year.

“I didn’t know what to expect, but I’ve learned so much. From using drills and saws to just putting 2-by-4s together, it’s been a great learning experience,” he says. “It’s also taught me a lot about leadership. Sometimes, no one knows exactly what they’re doing, so stepping up and figuring it out is part of the process.”

For Connor Kennedy, a first-year computer science major, joining the Tiger Burn team was a chance to step outside his comfort zone. “I’ve been involved since Day One,” Kennedy says. “Working on Tiger Burn brings everyone together. Most of us are engineering majors, but anyone can join. It’s an easy way to make friends and bond over this shared goal.”

Kennedy says the hands-on experience has been invaluable, even for those with no prior building skills. “It’s a lot harder than it sounds, but you can learn all these basic skills for free and become part of a USC family.”

Building skills and community

This year’s design is especially unique, featuring a more lifelike feline look. The tiger’s 3D head — complete with a detailed snout, ears and angular features — departs from previous years' designs.

“We’ve added intricate details like striped patterns and sculpted toes,” notes Sydney Morris, a junior in mechanical engineering. “The goal is to create something that’s not only symbolic but also artistically impressive.”

students discuss work on a wood and paper structure that will resemble a tiger

For many students, Tiger Burn is also a chance to develop leadership skills.

“Tiger Burn has taught me to lead with humility," Chavez says. "It’s about listening to others, teaching, and maintaining a positive attitude even when things get stressful. Seeing so many people come together with different backgrounds and skills is truly inspiring.”

On the day of the burn, the team gathers for one final build session. “That last day is special,” Roberts says. “We’re all running around like chickens with our heads cut off trying to get it ready, but we make time for a big meal together. And trust me, by that point, everyone’s just happy not to be eating fast food anymore.”

For Roberts, this year marks his last Tiger Burn as a student leader.

“What I’ll miss most is the sense of community,” he says. “I’ve met so many friends here, and leading the team has been the most rewarding experience of my time at USC.”

Connor Kennedy encourages anyone interested in Tiger Burn to get involved.

“Don’t be intimidated by what you see," he says. "You don’t need any building experience; you just have to be willing to learn. It’s a great way to meet people and be part of something bigger.”

Leyla Mohamud, a freshman in mechanical engineering, echoed that sentiment.

“I think it’s really cool to work with people I haven’t met before and to build something that’s showcased at such a big event," she says. "It’s a tradition that brings everyone together.”


If you’re going

This year’s Tiger Burn will begin at 6 p.m. Wednesday (Nov. 20) at Blatt Field. Make sure to get there early and bring your Gamecock spirit.

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