Hinson to Holstein: Sports desk’s 2024 Halloween costume guide

Many Pitt students and fans are piecing together their costumes in preparation for a weekend of parties, trick-or-treating and a variety of other festivities as Halloween creeps nearer.

If you’re one of those last-minute costume folks or the type to make something out of stuff you already have at home, The Pitt News is here to help you out. With the wide array of talented athletes and colorful characters that Pitt has to offer, there are plenty of ideas to help you show your love for your favorite player and stand out this Halloween!

Blake Hinson

Essentials: Two shooting sleeves, headband, basketball No. 2 jersey

One of the most recognizable athletes in recent Pitt history, Blake Hinson became a fan favorite because of his fun attitude and ludicrous range from behind the arc. 

Hinson seared his image in the minds of Panther fans with notable moments like his long-range three against Mississippi State in 2023 to lift the Panthers to their first tournament win since 2014. Most fans remember his magnum opus against Duke last season, when he went a perfect 7-7 from behind the arc, and taunted the Cameron Crazies afterward.

For this costume, you will need two shooting sleeves, a headband and Hinson’s jersey to replicate his iconic look. It’s difficult to replicate Hinson’s shooting ability if you don’t have it, but practicing at your nearest basketball court should help with full immersion. 

Cat Flood

Essentials: Black and white hair dye, two arm sleeves, 10-foot vertical

Cat Flood continues her streak of volleyball domination this season, helping Pitt volleyball to two months and counting atop the collegiate rankings. The serving specialist is hitting an ace in 28% of her attempts and is doing so in a dominant fashion. 

In order to dress like the elite Pitt outside hitter, a vertical split-dye haircut that is half white and half black is a necessity. In addition, you should wear sleeves on both arms, and jumping as high as you possibly can would not hurt. 

Eli Holstein

Essentials: Buzz cut, helmet with helmet stickers, goatee

Eli Holstein burst on the Pitt Football scene following his transfer last winter from Alabama. Now, Holstein has led Pitt to their first 7-0 start since 1982 and relief from last year’s 3-9 season. 

Holstein is a household name in Oakland, with his jerseys now sold at university stores. In order to dress like the elite quarterback, you must first get a buzz cut or a brown buzz cut wig. Then, you should sport a Pitt football helmet complete with the stickers of the panther head for superb play. Finally, you should add a goatee in order to complete the redshirt first-year’s look. 

Dave Wannstedt

Essentials: Mustache, old Pitt polo/jacket, headset

Throwing it back to the 2000s, former football head coach Dave Wannstedt was certainly one of the more colorful coaches to roam the sidelines for the Panthers. Wannstedt went 42-31 during his six-year tenure at Pitt, his most notable win being the infamous 13-9 victory over hated rival West Virginia. 

Wannstedt also played for the Panthers in college and was a member of the 1976 National Championship team. During his tenure as Pitt’s head coach, Wannstedt was notable for his mustache and grizzled scowl. Wannstedt also had quite the temper, so be ready to get a little temperamental to play the exact part.

Coaches generally wear polos and jackets on the sideline for presentability. Look for one that’s Vegas Gold and Navy Blue — the colors Pitt sported — for an era-accurate look. Finally, put on a headset to communicate the perfect play with your imaginary assistants. 

Wannstedt grew up in the Pittsburgh area, and as such has a pretty thick Pittsburghese accent, so make sure yinz brush up on that to bring your costume together.