Glove
Object number2003.50.10 a,b
Date1980-1989
MediumFabric
Credit LineGift of Robert J. Garritano
DescriptionWhite cotton gloves with knit cuffs.DimensionsHeight x Width x Depth (a): 8.5 × 5.875 × 0.75 in. (21.6 × 14.9 × 1.9 cm)Height x Width x Depth (b): 8.875 × 6.5 × 0.625 in. (22.5 × 16.5 × 1.6 cm)
Historical NotesGloves were worn with the "Terrible Fan" costume that belonged to Robert Garritano. Inspired by the Terrible Towel, Garritano developed an eight foot costume weighing over 40 pounds. The Fan premiered at Three Rivers Stadium on September 7, 1980. Never sanctioned as an official mascot by the Pittsburgh Steelers, Garritano was given a press pass and the right to move throughout the stands, but not on the field, at Steelers home games. From the time he arrived at the game in his decorated Terrible Fan van until the final whistle sounded, Garritano led cheers, sang, danced, and interacted with fans of the black and gold. Because the Fan was always in character and always in costume, few Steelers' fans knew his true identity until Bob hung up his size 25 shoes in 1987 and retired. See 'Notes" section.
Related institution
Pittsburgh Steelers
Terms
On View
Not on view
Adidas AG
1897
c. 2003