I think it's one of the most iconic fan symbols in NFL football but I've often wondered how waving a towel became a symbol of fanhood. Is there a story behind it?

Myron Cope

The Terrible Towel is an idea created by Myron Cope, a broadcaster for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Needing a way to excite the fans during a 1975 playoff football game against the Baltimore Colts, Cope urged fans to take yellow dish towels to the game and wave them throughout. Some Steelers players were unenthusiastic (notably linebacker Andy Russell who told Cope they weren't "a gimmick team"). Nevertheless, the stands were filled with yellow towels that day, and the Steelers always seemed to complete terrific plays when the towels were waving. The Steelers won that game 28-10, and Russell himself scored a defensive touchdown.

The Steelers introduced gold towels with the words "Myron Cope's Terrible Towel" in black on them just in time for Super Bowl X. The Steelers went on to win

It was developed by Myron Cope. That is why you should always get Myron Cope's Official Terrible Towel. The team was basically looking for some kind of symbol I believe, some kind of gimmick. So he developed one that wouldn't be the gimmicky type thing.

The terrible towel was invented/ started by Myron Cope a Pittsburgh sports caster and Steeler announcer back in the 70's when the Steelers were winning Super Bowls.

we use it to wipe our tears when we lose to Arizona.....