The final gun sounds and the Badgers have
garnered another gridiron victory. Immediately, every member of
the Wisconsin Band makes the same move ... they "turn their hats
backward." This tradition, though, is not unique to the Wisconsin
Band. It began in the early 1900's as a Big Ten band custom and
has spread to other universities across the nation as well as
numerous high school bands. Although there is little or no
agreement as to the origin of this practice, there is a consensus
of opinion as to its symbolism. The "backward facing cap" is
believed to signify "reflecting on the victory of the day."
Therefore, as the Badger Band members march toward the exit
of the Stadium following a Wisconsin triumph, their hats are
"looking back at the win."