What is a Tar?
One of the most charismatic and colorful nicknames in college sports belongs to Rollins College. Quite simply, a “Tar” is a sailor. Centuries ago, during the age of tall sailing ships, British sailors were known as “Tars.” The Rollins connection with the Tars began in World War I when a small Navy vessel was stationed on Lake Virginia, which borders half the Rollins campus. With the war leaving only 10 male students at Rollins, attention shifted to the snappy uniformed trainees going about their duties. The girls called them “Tars.” Before then, varsity teams were called the “Blue and Gold,” but soon the new title was adopted. Click here to visit the Rollins College Athletics Web site.
