How Are Mascots Chosen?

The origin of mascots dates back to ancient times, based on the belief that a mascot would bring good luck. The idea of mascots leading to good fortune was picked up by schools -- usually, for their sports teams -- in the late1800s. There are numerous reasons why a mascot may be picked.

  1. Fear factor

    • Some mascots are picked with the intention of instilling fear in opponents. Wild animals, such as lions or bears, fall into this category; during the 1800s, mascots often actually were wild animals. Mascots with warrior connotations also may be selected for their fear factor, although such names when based on Native American imagery have fallen into disfavor in recent years because of the stereotypes they often raise.

    Bathed in myth

    • Mythological creatures often raise images of being nearly invulnerable and being almost impossible to beat in combat, making them another popular choice for mascots. A dragon would be a good example of this type of mascot.

    Men at work

    • Another reason for the selection of a school mascot may be to reference people who work in professions that traditionally carry tough guy imagery -- a miner, for instance, or an iron worker.

    Region

    • Sometimes, mascots are chosen for a local or regional tie -- something for which area is known and prides itself. The University of Nebraska, for instance, has Herbie Husker, a reference to the corn crops that dominate the region.

    Randomness

    • At times, there is no logical reason at all for how a mascot is chosen. Sometime folks simply like the sound of a mascot's name or look, and develop the mascot for that reason.