Matt Ware’s ‘Fours Up’ Could Revive UCLA Rose Bowl Energy
Matt Ware, a former UCLA defensive back, has introduced a new ‘Fours Up’ hand signal and chant to boost fan engagement at Bruins home games. The move seeks to create a fresh, cohesive tradition that could rival long‑standing college rituals. The initiative will debut at the October 17 game against…
By Felo News Desk · Published
Matt Ware, a former UCLA defensive back who spent seven seasons in the NFL, has launched a new fan movement aimed at reinvigorating the atmosphere at Bruins home games in the Rose Bowl. The idea centers on a simple hand gesture – four fingers extended with the thumb tucked in – accompanied by the chant “Fours Up!” The goal is to give fans a short, easy‑to‑learn rally that can be performed at key moments in the game, from the kickoff to third‑down plays.
Why a New Tradition Is Needed
UCLA’s traditional eight‑clap, once led by legendary yell leader Geof Strand, has struggled to maintain momentum in recent years. The cadence has been performed “way too fast” by some fans, and many attendees are unfamiliar with the proper rhythm. Ware observed that the lack of a unified chant has left the Rose Bowl crowd feeling disconnected, especially during high‑energy moments.
“I was thinking, man we don’t have to get rid of the old chants, they definitely have their place,” Ware told the California Post. “But to get a more cohesive and enthusiastic chant from the crowd would be awesome.” His solution is the Fours Up, a gesture that can be executed quickly and loudly, making it ideal for the TikTok‑era fan who prefers short, shareable moments.
How the Fours Up Works
The gesture is simple: each hand displays four fingers, with the thumb tucked in. Fans are encouraged to shout “Fours Up!” in unison. Ware plans to launch the chant before the team exits the tunnel, during the opening kickoff, and on pivotal plays such as third downs. The idea is to create a rally that can be easily integrated into existing traditions, potentially easing the transition into the eight‑clap later in the game.
Ware’s brother, Aaron, a former UCLA running back, and Aaron’s wife, Caity, a former Bruins yell leader, will spearhead the initiative at the next home game against Wisconsin on October 17. They hope the chant will spread organically, much like the Tomahawk Chop at Florida State or the “Roll Tide!” rally at Alabama.
Origins and Influences
The Fours Up gesture was originally created in 2013 by defensive backs coach Demetrice Martin, whose son Cole is currently on the UCLA roster, and defensive back Jaleel Wadood. The duo popularized the sign on social media, and Ware believes it has the potential to translate into a stadium experience.
“It becomes a one‑city, one‑team family mentality – short and powerful,” Ware explained. “When the crowd does the Fours Up, it’s a quick, energetic cue that can be followed by other chants or cheers.”
What Happens Next?
Ware will be in Arizona for the majority of the season, but his family will be on hand to lead the chant at the Wisconsin game. If the initiative gains traction, UCLA Athletics may incorporate the Fours Up into official fan engagement plans, potentially making it a staple of Bruins home games.
Whether the chant will become the next big thing in college football remains to be seen, but the effort underscores a broader trend of former players and alumni seeking to shape the fan experience beyond the field.
For now, the Bruins community is watching to see if the Fours Up can ignite the same passion that has fueled iconic college traditions for decades.
Key facts
- Matt Ware introduces a new fan chant to energize Rose Bowl crowds
- The Fours Up gesture is simple and designed for quick adoption
- The chant will debut at the October 17 game vs. Wisconsin
- It builds on a gesture created by former UCLA defensive backs in 2013
- Success could lead to official adoption by UCLA Athletics
Why it matters
The Fours Up initiative reflects a growing movement among former athletes to shape fan culture, potentially revitalizing stadium energy and fostering a stronger sense of community among Bruins supporters.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Fours Up gesture?
A hand signal with four fingers extended and the thumb tucked in, shouted with “Fours Up!”
When will the chant debut?
At the Bruins’ home game against Wisconsin on October 17.
Who is behind the initiative?
Former UCLA DB Matt Ware, his brother Aaron, and Aaron’s wife Caity.
Will this replace the eight‑clap?
No, it is intended to complement existing traditions.
Can fans learn the chant easily?
Yes, it is designed to be short and simple for quick adoption.
Sources
- [1] nypost.com — originally reported as “Exclusive | Former UCLA DB Matt Ware has idea to energize listlesss Rose Bowl crowds”
