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Students and fans of the Maryland Terrapins are known to have hides thick as turtle shells, and rival opposition does not phase them. The fans here have developed a reputation of relentless taunting and an elegant knack for getting under the other school's skin. Fueled by a rich history and sound athletics program the students of Maryland are determined to live up to their slogan, "fear the turtle!".
The University of Maryland, located in College Park, Maryland is considered one of the best public schools in the country both athletically and academically. It is home to over 36,014 students and six Testudo statues - their school mascot.
Where's Tetsudo? Secret Locations of the Six Terrapin Statues
- 300lb version in front of Ritchie Coliseum.
- Outside the Gossett Team House, on the outskirts of Byrd Stadium.
- A twin statue of Testudo in front of Byrd Stadium.
- In front of Comcast Center, the Terrapin basketball arena.
- In front of Riggs Alumni Center.
- The lobby of Adele H. Stamp student union building.
The Terrapin's are a formidable force to contend with in NCAA Division I football. The University has traditionally held one of the better football programs in the Atlantic Coast Conference.
Terrapin Football Claim to Fame
- Football dynasty from 1949 to 1955.
- Undefeated in 1951, 1955.
- National Championship in 1953.
- Six Atlantic Coast Conference Championships from 1973-1985
Known for having thick hides and an eager disposition toward riling their opponents the students of Maryland have developed many stories over the years.
Legend of the 300lb Turtle
There's an old adage here in Maryland known as, "Fear the Turtle!". The story goes that many years ago a rival fan was visiting College Park for a basketball game. It was observed that this stranger, upon seeing a statue of Tetsudo, had spit on the lucky Terrapin's shell. Another student that was passing by immediately confronted the rival fan, and placed a curse of the 300lb turtle on his soul. Unfazed and unbelieving, the rival fan went about his business, catching the tail end of a basketball game that his school lost, ultimately returning home unsatisfied. Early the next morning while engaged in his morning run, the rival fan began to have this strange feeling that he was being followed. Legend has it that he was never seen or heard from again.
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