Why do students, fans, and alumni of the University of Virginia proudly call themselves “the Hoos”? While the university is officially known as the Cavaliers, the nickname “Hoos” is deeply woven into its culture and identity.
The origins of this term are not only rooted in history but also in student pride, sports traditions, and a sense of community that has lasted for generations. To understand why Virginia is called the Hoos, we must look at the fascinating story behind the name and how it became a lasting symbol of the University of Virginia.
What Are the Origins of the “Hoos” Nickname?
The term “Hoos” traces back to the longer version, “Wahoos.” In the late nineteenth century, rival students from Washington and Lee University supposedly used the word “Wahoo” as a playful insult toward UVA students.
They claimed that UVA men could “cheer like a Wahoo fish,” referring to a species of fish said to be able to drink large amounts of water.
Rather than reject the nickname, students at the University of Virginia adopted it with pride. Over time, “Wahoos” became associated with UVA students and fans, representing a spirited identity that outsiders could not diminish.
By the early twentieth century, the term was often shortened to “Hoos,” which eventually became the more casual and commonly used form.
This transformation shows how a term once meant as a jab evolved into one of the strongest cultural identifiers at any American university.
What Does “Wahoos” Mean at the University of Virginia?
The word “Wahoos” is more than just a nickname. It symbolises tradition, school pride, and community. At UVA, it quickly became part of chants, songs, and cheers that united students.
One of the most recognisable expressions linked to the name is “Wahoowa.” The origins of this chant are debated, but it likely comes from a nineteenth-century student song. Whatever its beginnings, it became the rallying cry of UVA athletics and is now shouted at nearly every sporting event.
To many, being a Wahoo or a Hoo is not simply about supporting a team but about belonging to a wider community. The term captures the essence of what it means to be part of UVA, both academically and socially.
Why Is Virginia Known as Both Cavaliers and Hoos?
The University of Virginia holds the unusual distinction of having two prominent nicknames. The Cavaliers is the university’s official mascot, adopted in the 1920s to honour Virginian Royalists who supported the British monarchy during the English Civil War. This historical connection gave the university a noble and formal identity.
However, “Hoos” came directly from student culture. While Cavaliers represents the official and traditional branding of the university, Hoos reflects the everyday identity embraced by its students and alumni.
The difference between the two can be summarised as follows:
| Term | Origin | Current Use |
| Cavaliers | Adopted officially in the 1920s | Official mascot, sports branding |
| Wahoos | Student nickname from the 1800s | Cultural identity, chants |
| Hoos | Abbreviation of Wahoos | Informal and widely used nickname |
This dual identity makes UVA unique. Few universities balance an official nickname with an informal one so widely accepted and beloved.
How Did Sports Help Popularise the Hoos Identity?
Athletics at the University of Virginia played a central role in spreading the Hoos nickname beyond Charlottesville. As UVA’s football, basketball, and lacrosse teams grew in reputation, fans and players alike rallied behind the term.
In football, chants of “Wahoowa” became inseparable from the game-day experience. Student sections proudly adopted the Hoos identity, making it clear that being a Hoo was part of the UVA spirit.
The rise of the men’s basketball team, particularly during NCAA tournament success, brought the nickname even greater recognition, with phrases like “Go Hoos” appearing on national broadcasts and social media.
Other sports, including baseball and lacrosse, also embraced the nickname. Today, no matter the athletic discipline, fans and teams identify themselves as Hoos. Rivalries, especially with Virginia Tech, further cemented this identity, as supporters unified under the informal nickname to distinguish themselves from their opponents.
What Role Do Mascots and Symbols Play in the Hoos Identity?
The Cavalier mascot remains the official representation of UVA, appearing at sporting events and in marketing. Yet alongside it, the Hoos identity developed its own cultural expressions. Students and fans created chants, cheers, and unofficial symbols that emphasised their pride as Hoos.
The most recognisable is the “Wahoowa” cheer, shouted passionately during games and events. Merchandise featuring “Hoos” or “Wahoos” has also become widespread, ranging from t-shirts and banners to alumni memorabilia.
These traditions show how a nickname can carry as much, if not more, cultural weight than an official mascot. While the Cavalier represents the university’s historical roots, the Hoos identity reflects the living spirit of its community.
How Does the Hoos Nickname Shape UVA’s Culture and Identity?
Beyond the world of sports, the nickname Hoos is central to the University of Virginia’s identity. It influences how students see themselves, how alumni remain connected, and how the university is represented in popular culture.
Students at UVA often refer to themselves as Hoos in casual conversation, reinforcing the sense of belonging from the moment they join the university. Alumni carry this title long after graduation, creating a lifelong bond tied to the nickname.
Social media campaigns and hashtags such as #GoHoos and #Wahoowa further extend the reach of the identity, ensuring that it remains relevant in the digital age.
The Hoos nickname encapsulates pride, tradition, and unity. For many, it is more than just a name—it represents what it means to be part of UVA.
FAQs About Virginia’s “Hoos” Nickname
Why do Virginia fans call themselves Hoos?
Virginia fans call themselves Hoos because the nickname is a shortened form of Wahoos, a term adopted by students more than a century ago.
What is the difference between Hoos and Wahoos?
Wahoos is the original nickname, while Hoos is the shortened and more commonly used version. Both are accepted terms at UVA.
When did students begin using the term Hoos?
The term Wahoos appeared in the late 1800s, and Hoos became a popular abbreviation in the early 1900s.
Is Hoos an official nickname of the University of Virginia?
No. The official nickname remains the Cavaliers, but Hoos is widely embraced in everyday culture.
What does “Wahoowa” mean?
“Wahoowa” is a UVA cheer that has become a symbol of spirit and unity at athletic events.
Do all UVA sports teams use the Hoos nickname?
Yes. While Cavaliers is official, fans across all sports identify as Hoos.
How do rival schools refer to UVA supporters?
Rivals often call them Hoos as well, sometimes playfully and sometimes as a form of competitive banter.
