The group of men who don dresses, floppy hats and pig snouts for every Washington Redskins game is retiring after 30 seasons.
Known as the “Hogettes,” these superfans have become a Washington fixture not only at games, but also a number of charitable events.
“After 30 seasons, the Hogettes are hanging up our pig snouts & dresses,” founder Michael Torbert wrote in an official statement posted to the group’s website. “It has been an honor being a part of the greatest 12th Man fans in the NFL. We will forever be Redskins’ fans and cheer for our beloved team. It is a new era and we will continue to support RG3 and his teammates. HAIL TO THE REDSKINS!!! We will also continue to help (incognito) raise money for Children’s Charities.”
Torbert, who dressed in drag for Halloween to amuse his grandmother at her nursing home in 1983, went on to found the group, according to the Hogette’s official story.
He then recruited 12 friends to don the funny costumes while in the stands at Redskins games.
The retirement announcement comes after the end of the Redskins’ first foray into the NFL postseason since 1999.