Red Raiders' Bond Through Duck Hunting

In the heart of Texas, where football reigns supreme, a group of college athletes from Texas Tech has woven a unique tradition into their camaraderie – duck hunting. Mason Tharp, a Red Raiders tight end, found his love for hunting transformed when he traded the solitary pursuit of deer hunting for the shared thrill of duck hunting with his teammates.

Mason Tharp, who grew up in San Saba, a quaint town two hours from Austin, initially had his sights set on deer. However, his move to Lubbock to join the Texas Tech football team introduced him to a new hunting companion, quarterback Behren Morton. It was during visits to Morton's hometown of Eastland that Tharp discovered the exhilarating world of duck hunting. "It was probably the most fun I've ever had in that aspect," Tharp reminisced about their adventures.

The tradition has grown among the team, particularly with the tight ends, who now eagerly anticipate their annual excursions. These getaways are strategically planned during lulls in the football season, such as bye weeks or just before a bowl game. Fresh off a nail-biting 24-23 victory over UCF, which secured their bowl game slot, Tharp and his teammates are coordinating their next hunting trip, set to follow their upcoming game against Texas.

For Tharp and his fellow hunters, these outings offer a much-needed respite. "Getting out in the outdoors where it's just quiet," Tharp explained. "There's no worries. You're just out there having a good time with your friends. You don't have to worry about football or school or any of that stuff." The most recent trip included Charles Robinson, Monroe Mills, Haydon Wiginton, and student assistant Braiden Martin.

Tharp's initial foray into duck hunting with Morton led to a bond with Robinson over their mutual passion for the sport. Baylor Cupp often joins them, while Mills brings his childhood experience of hunting duck and waterfowl in Missouri to the group. Tharp describes the adrenaline surge when hundreds of birds take flight overhead, presenting the challenge and excitement of the hunt.

Although their last outing yielded a modest catch of five birds, the experience was no less thrilling. Local outfit Dust Devil Outfitters, operated by Austin and Hunter Daughtry in Lubbock, supports these excursions. Robinson takes on the role of chef, preparing their harvest, while Martin also showcases his culinary skills.

Tharp contrasts the solitude of deer hunting with the camaraderie of duck and geese hunting. "You go with a group of 10 of your best friends," he said. "Just go out and just have a great time." It's not just about the hunt; it's about building bonds and creating memories that extend beyond the football field.

For readers interested in similar experiences or looking to gear up for their outdoor adventures, it's essential to have the right tactical supplies. Whether you're in need of solvent traps to maintain your firearms or night vision scopes and binoculars to spot game in low light conditions, being well-equipped is key to a successful and enjoyable hunt.

The college football player's duck hunting tradition at Texas Tech exemplifies how sports and outdoor activities can intermingle to create lifelong friendships and unforgettable moments. For those who share this passion for the outdoors, it's more than just a pastime—it's a way of life that enhances one's appreciation for nature, teamwork, and the simple joys of life away from the hustle and bustle.

As these student-athletes look forward to their next outdoor adventure, they remind us that sometimes, stepping away from the pressures of competition and academia can lead to the most rewarding experiences. For them, duck hunting has become an integral part of their college journey—a tradition that will likely be passed down to future Red Raiders for years to come.