Recognize.
The Terrible Towel is a fan symbol associated with the
Pittsburgh Steelers, an
American football team in the
National Football League (NFL). Created in 1975 by then Steelers
radio broadcaster Myron Cope, the Towel has since become "arguably the best-known fan symbol of any major pro sports team".
[1] Since its invention, The Terrible Towel has spread in popularity; fans take their Towel to famous sites while on vacation. The Towel has been taken to the peak of
Mount Everest, into space on the
International Space Station and seen on
Saturday Night Live. It is widely recognized as a symbol of the Steelers and the city of
Pittsburgh.
[2][3]
Proceeds from sales of the Towel have raised over
US$3 million for a
Pennsylvania school which cares for people with
mental retardation and
physical disabilities. The Terrible Towel is credited with being the first "rally towel" and its success has given rise to similar products promoting other teams.
[4] Numerous versions have been produced; almost all are black and gold in color with the words "Myron Cope's Official The Terrible Towel" printed on the front. In October 2009 a pink Terrible Towel was sold to promote Breast Cancer Awareness.