The Cougar Paw: More Than Just a Missing Toe
What is The University Of Houston Hand Sign |
A Tale of Two Universities and One Missing Digit
So, you wanna know about the University of Houston's hand sign, huh? Well, buckle up, because this story is as dramatic as a soap opera, but with way less crying and way more school spirit.
Let's start with the basics. The hand sign is called the Cougar Paw. And no, it's not because Cougars are particularly dexterous. It's actually a story of triumph over adversity, or something like that.
Back in the day, when dinosaurs roamed the Earth and people thought the world was flat, there was a big ol' football game between the University of Houston and the University of Texas. UH's mascot, a cougar named Shasta, was on her way to the game when she got her paw caught in a cage door. Cue dramatic music. One toe was lost. Talk about a bad hair day!
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The opposing team, being the total jerks they were, decided to mock UH by bending their ring finger to mimic Shasta's injury. But what they didn't realize is that they had just created one of the most iconic hand signs in college sports history.
UH fans, being the resilient bunch they are, adopted the sign as a symbol of pride and defiance. And just to rub it in UT's face, UH went on to defeat them in a major upset. So, the next time you see someone throwing up the Cougar Paw, remember: it's not just a hand sign, it's a battle cry.
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How to Master the Cougar Paw
Okay, now that you know the epic backstory, let's get to the good stuff: actually doing the hand sign. It's easier than it looks, we promise.
- Step 1: Hold up your right hand.
- Step 2: Bend your ring finger towards your palm.
- Step 3: Flex the other fingers slightly to give it that je ne sais quoi.
And there you have it! You're now a certified Cougar Paw pro.
Tip: Take a sip of water, then continue fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to do the Cougar Paw with your left hand? While the traditional Cougar Paw is done with the right hand, lefties can absolutely rock it with their left. Just mirror the steps!
How to make the Cougar Paw look more enthusiastic? Put some pep in your step! Add a little bounce, a shout, or even a synchronized dance routine with your friends.
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How to incorporate the Cougar Paw into daily life? Get creative! Use it as a secret handshake, a way to order your coffee, or even a signature move for your TikTok dances.
How to avoid accidentally confusing the Cougar Paw with the Vulcan salute? Remember, the Cougar Paw only involves one finger. Live long and prosper with the other hand.
How to become a Cougar Paw ambassador? Spread the Cougar Paw love! Teach your friends, family, and even strangers how to do it. The more the merrier!
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