LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – The Masked Rider was named to the Top 10 of USA Today Sports’ Reader’s Choice Awards for Best College Mascot, finishing as the No. 4 mascot in the country.
In addition to its top-five national finish, the Masked Rider was ranked as the No. 1 mascot in the Big 12 Conference and the No. 1 live mascot in the nation.
“Being recognized by USA Today is an incredible honor for the Masked Rider Program,” Stephanie Rhode, Texas Tech Spirit Program director, said in a statement. “This recognition confirms what Red Raiders have known since 1954: The Masked Rider is one of college athletics’ most iconic mascots. We are proud to see this Texas Tech tradition celebrated on a national stage.”
The Masked Rider has served as Texas Tech’s official mascot for more than 70 years. The dramatic pregame entrance, featuring the rider leading the football team onto the field, remains a staple of Red Raider home games. Each year, the university holds a Transfer of Reins ceremony to welcome the new rider, who dons the program’s signature mask and black cape.
For the 2026-27 academic year, Houston native Sofie Jones is serving as the 65th Masked Rider. Jones is a member of both the Honors College and the Texas Tech Rodeo Team. She is also a third-generation Red Raider, with more than 20 members of her family holding degrees from the university.
The nominations for the Reader’s Choice Awards were selected by a panel of USA Today sports editors before being put to a public vote.
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