MENOMONIE (September 20, 2011) - The University of Wisconsin-Stout's first official mascot, a product of collaboration between students and administrators, will make its public debut Thursday, Sept. 22.
The Blue Devil will take the field at the start of the UW-Stout vs. UW-Oshkosh football game at 7 p.m. at Don and Nona Williams Stadium.
The mascot, based on the school nickname, was accepted in December by Chancellor Charles W. Sorensen.
The university began discussing the idea of a mascot about two years ago and formed a committee. An art and design student, Megan Jurecki of Burlington, designed a prototype after receiving input from students and student-athletes.
The Stout Student Association surveyed students, with 152 of 160 supporting the idea and the concept design.
“We tweaked the design to accommodate what the students wanted,” said Neal Peterson, of Maplewood, Minn., Stout Student Association president.
“The majority of students wanted a Blue Devil. Finding something that appealed to everyone was a challenge. I feel confident the students will like it,” Peterson added.
The Blue Devil will make regular appearances at university athletic contests and other school functions.
“This is an important symbol for our teams and our university. We took time to consider a variety of options, to talk to students and get it right,” said Sorensen. “We think our school and the thousands of fans of our fine athletic teams will fall in love with the Blue Devil.”
The mascot's debut is expected to be in front of a large student crowd. The Sept. 22 game has been designated as Dorm Day, with special events for students who live in the residence halls. All fans are encouraged to wear the school colors, blue and white. The mascot will be welcomed officially to campus by Peterson and Julie Furst-Bowe, UW-Stout provost and vice chancellor for academic and student affairs.
“We're excited about the addition of the Blue Devil mascot to our athletic events at UW-Stout. It will help fans connect with our teams and boost spirit and enthusiasm at games,” said
Duey Naatz, UW-Stout athletic director.
The mascot unveiling is in advance of annual homecoming festivities Sept. 26-Oct. 2. The week will be capped off with a football game at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 1, against UW-Eau Claire.
Football team's 100th anniversary
At the homecoming game, the football team also will celebrate its 100th anniversary. The first Stout Institute football game was played Nov. 4, 1911, against River Falls Normal School (now UW-River Falls).
UW-Stout was founded in 1891 as Stout Manual Training School.
The 100th anniversary celebration will include a reunion of former football players. Alumni players will be honored at halftime, with the oldest in attendance serving as honorary captains.
For more information, go to http://athletics.uwstout.edu/sports/2011/7/1/FB_0701115751.aspx?id=149.
