National Underdog Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Underdog Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Underdog Day is celebrated on December 16th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Underdog Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as fun facts you may want to know about National Underdog Day.

📅 What day is National Underdog Day 2024?

In 2024, National Underdog Day is on Saturday, December 16th. It is the 3rd Saturday in December; in 2024, it is Monday. There are until the next observance. You also can view all the fun details and facts about December 16, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

National Underdog Day, celebrated on the third Friday of December each year since 1976, is a special occasion dedicated to showing support and encouragement for those who are predicted to lose or fail in a competition or event. This year, it falls on December 16. On this day, instead of focusing on supporting the winning team, the emphasis is shifted towards recognizing and honoring the underdogs, the unsung heroes. This gesture is important because it demonstrates our unwavering support and solidarity with them. Let’s go the extra mile to cheer on these unsung heroes, as our encouragement might just inspire them to adopt a winning attitude.

📜 National Underdog Day History

The term “underdog” originated in the 19th century in relation to the construction of wooden ships. Timber planks, called dogs, were used in building these ships. These wooden dogs were placed over a pit to support sawed timber planks. One person would stand on top of the board and saw, while another person would stand underneath it. The person beneath, known as the underdog, would often end up covered in sawdust from the sawing process.

Over time, the term “underdog” began to be used to describe individuals who were not recognized or acknowledged for their work, similar to the person standing beneath the board. It became a term for unsung heroes, people who performed important roles but did not receive the recognition they deserved. The term can be applied to various fields such as science, sports, literature, and other areas where individuals may not achieve top-level success but still contribute significantly.

In 1976, Peter Moeller created a holiday to honor these unsung heroes, whether they were in sports, movies, or real-life situations. This holiday aimed to recognize and appreciate the efforts of individuals who may not always receive the spotlight but play crucial roles in their respective fields.

✅ National Underdog Day Facts

🔖 How Americans refer to underdogs
The “Cinderella” narrative is how Americans commonly describe the underdog fable.

🔖 We can describe some athletes as underdogs
In the world of sports, we tend to view athletes as underdogs because while the outcome is often predictable, there are still moments of unexpected surprises.

🔖 The initial meaning
The term “underdog” was initially used to refer to the dog that had been defeated in a fight.

👍 Why Is National Underdog Day Important

The underdogs are not scared to battle, even if the odds are stacked against them. This day reminds everyone that we can be anything and anybody, no matter where we come from.

Underdog Day encourages us to persevere in the face of adversity. This day teaches us that determination may open any door.

Underdog Day serves as a reminder of the importance of hope. When we have optimism that things will change, life is lovely.

🙂 How To Observe National Underdog Day

⚡ Tell your underdog story

⚡ Encourage an underdog to keep them motivated
Do you have anyone in mind who is considered an underdog? Make sure to support and motivate them to keep striving forward. And if you find yourself in a similar position, put in extra effort to exceed everyone’s expectations.

⚡ Dressing up for the celebration
When posting on social media, tell your underdog tale and use the hashtag #nationalunderdogday.

📅 When is National Underdog Day?

See all 🔗 December holidays, including 🔗 Special Interest and other 🔗 Appreciation holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and fun facts about National Underdog Day. So be sure to check back soon.