Tarleton State has a new pregame ritual for the first Friday prior to football season kicking off in Stephenville, TX. President Dr. James Hurley has proclaimed “Fist Pump Friday” to honor the school’s bond with Audacy’s 105.3 The Fan.
What We Know: Hurley announced the proclamation live on Shan & RJ, broadcasting from the Stephenville campus Friday morning. The tradition begins this season and repeats every year before Tarleton’s home opener. Meanwhile, Tarleton has surged since 2020, moving from Division II to Division I and joining the WAC, then the United Athletic Conference in 2024. That climb has fueled growing regional media coverage, including this radio partnership.
What They Said: (all quotes from 105.3 The Fan):
Tarleton State University President Dr. James Hurley announcing the proclamation: “Dr. James Early, President Tarleton State University, do hereby proclaim. The Friday preceding each Tarleton State University home football opener from now on as Fist Pump Friday. In honor of our great friends at 105.3 The Fan and encourage all Tarleton State Texans to celebrate with a proud Fist Pump Friday to support Tarleton State University and Texan football.”
Tarleton State University President Dr. James Hurley on his proclamation of “Fist Pump Friday” surrounding the relationship with 105.3 The Fan: “Thank you all so much for the partnership, the friendship. This is off the beaten path for you guys. We are so thankful for what you’re doing to help spread this good story that’s surrounded around Texan Nation and Tarleton State University.”
What Remains Unclear: The university hasn’t stated whether the celebration will extend to other sports or partners.
What It Means: Notably, the proclamation reflects Tarleton’s push for name recognition since reaching Division I. Aligning with a major Dallas sports radio station extends the Texans’ reach well beyond Stephenville. Ultimately, for a program still building its FCS profile, that visibility matters entering a new season. The gesture was founded on years of support and conversation regarding the continued growth of the university’s footprint within college athletics.
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John Mamola is Barrett Media’s sports editor and daily sports columnist. He brings over two decades of experience (Chicago, Tampa/St Petersburg) in the broadcast industry with expertise in brand management, sales, promotions, producing, imaging, hosting, talent coaching, talent development, web development, social media strategy and design, video production, creative writing, partnership building, communication/networking with a long track record of growth and success. He is a five-time recognized top 20 program director in a major market via Barrett Medi’s Top 20 series and has been honored internally multiple times as station/brand of the year (Tampa, FL) and employee of the month (Tampa, FL) by iHeartMedia. Connect with John by email at John@BarrettMedia.com.