Today’s Throwback Thursday take us to an era where children may have been a little less open to getting a picture with their favorite mascot. From birds to animals to trees (what?) mascots have been a part of sports since their creation, but have definitely become far more inviting creatures in the modern era. While many facets of life could be argued that the “good ole days” were much better, sports mascots have definitely evolved for the better since their early roots.
Birds
Someone must have had a vendetta against avian varieties, because bird mascots were less than welcoming in their earlier days. I mean, can’t they at least smile?
As you can see above, Herky the Hawk has been on the sidelines at Kinnick Stadium since 1948. Unlike most baby boomers, I think it can be safely said that Herky has become more beautiful with age. I hope he’s a little less angry too.
Big Jay and Baby Jay have been widely popular at University of Kansas sporting events since the 1960s. At least they look happy in this early 70s photo with Herbie the Husker. I can’t imagine how much neck pain Herbie the Husker had in this photo… look at the size of that head.
Cy was voted the most dominant mascot in America in 2009, but I struggle to see this rendition of Cy as capable of dominating anything. At least the Iowa State cheerleaders kept him company instead of the throngs of children who follow him today.
Political Figures
As you can see above, nothing quite welcomes a sitting US President quite like a college kid dressed in a smelly old elephant costume. Roll Tide Ronnie, Roll Tide.
Who knew that a mascot could provide inspiration for the hair style of a future presidential candidate? Who knew.
Mascots with only a head
Some schools have decided over time that they only need a headdress to fill their mascot needs. Similar to Herbie the Husker above, I struggle to imagine what a chiropractor bill would be if Sparty’s head was this much bigger than his body.
Willie the Wildcat has remained just a head for many years, as he often sports a uniform or jersey of the team that is playing during that day. I hope he gets that skin condition figured out on his cheek. Looks rough.
Just plain weird…
If recent success of the TCU Basketball was any indication of what is going on here, I’d probably have this same facial expression too. I’m not sure what is worse… the game score or getting a picture with this mascot.
No mascot piece is complete without the Stanford Tree. Whether in the 70s or today, this tree is flat out creepy and makes me second guess hiking through forests worldwide.
I have no words.
Good night everyone; I hope you can sleep.