From the day that a potential students walk across campus for their first tour, they learn about an exclusive group called the Secret Sophomore Sabots. Officially, the Shorter University website explains that the sabots are responsible for getting the students of Shorter excited about the school in which they attend and to promote a sense of pride among the Shorter community. However, the experience of the Sabot is much more.
First, it appears to be no easy task to join. The group is exclusive and chosen every year by previous sabots, and this selective tradition has been on the campus for 76 years.
From here, Assistant Dean of Students Tam Odom is in charge of these students as they “strike” on campus several times per semester for upcoming events.
“Traditionally the sabots strike the campus at least twice a semester by chalking, leaving out candy or prizes, hanging flyers and decorating the campus that promote school spirit,” said Odom.
It should also be recognized that Sabot roots are deep. Some of the sabots have parents have who were once a part of the group. For example, junior marketing major Meagan Smith said she was honored to be a sabot for several reasons, but especially because of her family ties to the group.
“I loved being a part of this tradition because my dad, Steve Smith, was a sabot when he attended Shorter, so I loved making him proud as well as making other alumni proud by keeping the tradition alive,” said Smith.
Furthermore, Smith is excited to see the newest group of sabots begin to leave their mark on the sidewalks of Shorter. Last week was their first strike and aimed at fostering school spirit in light of the Homecoming festivities.
This year’s sabots, additionally, are full of anticipation for what the next two semesters will bring. Despite the late nights, cold temperatures and scraped knees, the sabots are ready to show their hawk pride and encourage the campus as a whole.
As one anonymous current sabot said, “I like being a part of the sabots because of the stealthy fun we are able to have while showing our hawk pride. We have a great time and a strong sense of school spirit when we are striking the campus.”
