What are the most unique college basketball team names. How did Duke get the Blue Devils nickname. Why is Alabama called the Crimson Tide. Discover the fascinating stories behind 25 odd team names and mascots in NCAA basketball.
The Curious Case of Blue Devils and Billikens
College basketball is renowned for its passionate fanbase, thrilling games, and rich traditions. Among these traditions are the unique team names and mascots that add color and character to the sport. Some of the most intriguing monikers belong to powerhouse programs and lesser-known schools alike. Let’s explore the origins of these peculiar names and the mascots that bring them to life.
Duke Blue Devils: From French Soldiers to Basketball Royalty
The Duke Blue Devils are one of the most recognizable brands in college basketball. But where did this devilish name come from? Contrary to what some might assume, it has nothing to do with the color blue or any satanic references. The nickname actually traces its roots back to World War I.
In 1924, the student newspaper at Duke University chose “Blue Devils” as the school’s new nickname. This decision was inspired by the “les Diables Bleus,” a renowned French battalion that fought bravely in the Alps during World War I. These soldiers were known for their distinctive blue berets and capes, earning them the moniker “Blue Devils.”
The Blue Devil mascot made its debut shortly after the nickname was adopted. Today, it remains a beloved symbol of Duke’s athletic prowess and school spirit. The costumed character, with its blue skin, menacing grin, and cape, can be seen energizing crowds at Cameron Indoor Stadium during basketball games.
Saint Louis Billikens: A Lucky Charm Turned Mascot
Perhaps one of the most unusual names in college basketball belongs to the Saint Louis Billikens. But what exactly is a Billiken? The term refers to a charm doll created in the early 1900s by St. Louis native Florence Pretz.
Legend has it that the Billiken came to Pretz in a dream. She patented the design in 1908, and it quickly gained popularity as a good luck charm. The doll, which resembles a smiling Buddha-like figure, was said to bring good fortune when its belly was rubbed.
In 1911, Saint Louis University adopted the Billiken as its mascot, reportedly because it bore a striking resemblance to the football coach at the time, John Bender. The unusual choice has endured for over a century, making the Billikens one of the most distinctive teams in college sports.
Fierce Felines and Roosters: Unexpected Animal Mascots
While lions, tigers, and bears are common choices for sports team mascots, some schools have opted for less conventional creatures to represent their athletic programs.
Vermont Catamounts: Mountain Cats of the Northeast
The University of Vermont’s teams are known as the Catamounts, a name that might leave some scratching their heads. A catamount, short for “cat of the mountain,” is a term used to describe various medium-sized wild cats, such as cougars or lynx.
Vermont chose this nickname due to the historical presence of mountain lions in the region. Although these big cats are no longer found in the state, the Catamount remains a symbol of the fierce and independent spirit of UVM athletics.
The school’s current mascot, Rally Cat, was introduced in 2004, replacing the long-serving Charlie and Kitty Catamount. Rally’s sleek design and friendly demeanor make it a hit with fans of all ages at UVM sporting events.
Coastal Carolina Chanticleers: A Literary Rooster Takes Center Court
Coastal Carolina University boasts one of the most literary-inspired mascots in college sports: the Chanticleer. This name, which is essentially a fancy term for “rooster,” has its origins in medieval literature.
The Chanticleer comes from Geoffrey Chaucer’s “Canterbury Tales,” specifically “The Nun’s Priest’s Tale.” In this story, Chauntecleer is a proud and clever rooster who outsmarts a fox.
Coastal Carolina adopted this unique nickname in 1960 when it became affiliated with the University of South Carolina. The school wanted a mascot that paid homage to USC’s Gamecocks while still maintaining its own identity. Even after separating from USC, Coastal Carolina kept the distinctive Chanticleer name and mascot.
Agricultural Roots and Tidal Phenomena
Some college team names reflect the history and geography of their institutions, leading to some interesting and sometimes puzzling monikers.
Texas A&M Aggies: A Nod to Agricultural Heritage
The Texas A&M Aggies might seem like an odd nickname to urban dwellers, but it has deep roots in the school’s history. “Aggie” is derived from “agricultural,” reflecting the institution’s original focus on farming and mechanical studies.
Founded in 1876 as the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas, the school eventually broadened its academic offerings. In 1963, it was renamed Texas A&M University, with the A&M retained as a nod to its heritage.
The Aggies’ mascot, Reveille, has an equally interesting origin story. In 1931, a group of cadets accidentally hit a stray dog with their car. They brought the injured animal back to campus, where it recovered and soon became a beloved part of the school community. Reveille now leads the band onto the field at football games and cheers on the basketball team as well.
Alabama Crimson Tide: When Mother Nature Names Your Team
The University of Alabama’s Crimson Tide is one of the most recognizable names in college sports. But how did a landlocked state end up with an oceanic nickname?
The origin of the Crimson Tide dates back to a muddy football game between Alabama and Auburn in 1907. The Alabama team, wearing crimson jerseys, appeared to be a “Crimson Tide” rolling across the field as they battled through the muck to secure a surprising tie against the favored Auburn squad.
A sports editor coined the phrase in his article about the game, and it stuck. The Crimson Tide replaced previous nicknames like “The Thin Red Line” and has since become synonymous with Alabama’s athletic prowess, particularly in football and increasingly in basketball.
Mythical Creatures and Local Legends
Some schools have embraced folkloric and regional elements in creating their team identities, resulting in some truly unique mascots.
Penn State Nittany Lions: A Mountain Cat with a Local Twist
Penn State’s teams are known as the Nittany Lions, but what exactly is a “Nittany”? The term refers to Mount Nittany, a prominent geographical feature near the university’s main campus in State College, Pennsylvania.
The mountain lion, or cougar, was once native to the region, including the area around Mount Nittany. Although these big cats are no longer found in Pennsylvania, the Nittany Lion has become a beloved symbol of Penn State’s athletic teams.
The Nittany Lion mascot, known for its shaggy mane and fierce demeanor, is a fixture at Penn State sporting events, including basketball games at the Bryce Jordan Center.
Virginia Tech Hokies: From a Cheer to a Cherished Nickname
The Virginia Tech Hokies have one of the most unusual names in college sports. But what is a Hokie? The term doesn’t refer to an animal or historical figure; instead, it comes from a school spirit cheer.
In 1896, a Virginia Tech student named O.M. Stull won a contest to create a new spirit yell for the school. His cheer included the nonsense word “Hoki,” which was later changed to “Hokie.” The term caught on, and eventually, the school’s athletic teams adopted it as their nickname.
The Hokie Bird mascot, a maroon and orange anthropomorphic turkey, was introduced in the 1980s. It has since become one of the most recognizable mascots in college sports, bringing energy and enthusiasm to Virginia Tech basketball games.
Honoring History and Culture
Some college team names pay tribute to historical figures, cultural groups, or regional industries, adding depth to their athletic identities.
Purdue Boilermakers: From Industrial Roots to Hardwood Heroes
Purdue University’s teams are known as the Boilermakers, a name that reflects the school’s engineering heritage and the industrial history of Indiana. But how did this blue-collar profession become a sports nickname?
In the late 19th century, Purdue’s football team gained a reputation for crushing their opponents, particularly those from nearby Wabash College. A Crawfordsville newspaper referred to the Purdue team as “burly boiler makers,” alluding to the physical nature of their play and the school’s engineering focus.
The name stuck, and Purdue embraced it. Today, the Boilermaker Special, a replica locomotive, serves as the official mascot, while Purdue Pete, a muscular figure with a hard hat, represents the Boilermaker spirit at basketball games and other events.
Notre Dame Fighting Irish: Embracing Cultural Heritage
The University of Notre Dame’s Fighting Irish is one of the most iconic nicknames in college sports. But how did a private Catholic university in Indiana come to be associated with Irish culture?
The exact origin of the nickname is debated, but it likely evolved over time. One theory suggests it began as a derogatory term used by opponents, referring to the large number of Irish Catholic students and athletes at Notre Dame in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Rather than take offense, Notre Dame embraced the nickname. The Fighting Irish moniker became official in 1927, symbolizing the tenacity and fighting spirit of the school’s athletic teams.
The leprechaun mascot, introduced in 1965, further reinforced the Irish connection. Today, the spirited leprechaun can be seen rallying crowds at Notre Dame basketball games, embodying the determination and pride associated with the Fighting Irish name.
Extinct Species and Mythical Beasts
Some colleges have looked to the distant past or the realm of fantasy for inspiration in naming their teams, resulting in some truly unique monikers.
UC Santa Cruz Banana Slugs: Embracing the Unconventional
Perhaps one of the most unusual mascots in college sports belongs to the University of California, Santa Cruz. The Banana Slugs, named after a bright yellow mollusk native to the redwood forests surrounding the campus, represent a deliberate departure from traditional fierce or intimidating mascots.
The name was unofficially adopted by the students in the 1980s, reflecting the school’s counter-culture ethos and environmental awareness. Despite initial resistance from the administration, who preferred a more conventional sea lion mascot, student demand led to the official adoption of the Banana Slug in 1986.
While UC Santa Cruz doesn’t compete in NCAA Division I basketball, the Banana Slugs have become one of the most beloved and recognizable mascots in college sports, appearing on merchandise worn proudly by students and alumni alike.
Oglethorpe Stormy Petrels: A Seabird for a Landlocked School
Oglethorpe University, located in Atlanta, Georgia, has adopted one of the more obscure mascots in college sports: the Stormy Petrel. This small seabird might seem an odd choice for a school far from the ocean, but the nickname has historical significance.
The Stormy Petrel was chosen in honor of James Edward Oglethorpe, the university’s namesake and founder of the colony of Georgia. Oglethorpe was once described by English poet James Thomson as being “like the stormy petrel” due to his tenacity and bravery.
While Oglethorpe University competes in NCAA Division III, not Division I, the Stormy Petrels represent one of the most unique and historically rich nicknames in college sports.
The Evolution of College Basketball Nicknames
The diverse and often quirky nicknames in college basketball reflect the rich tapestry of American higher education. From historical figures and local wildlife to literary references and inside jokes, these names offer a glimpse into the unique culture and heritage of each institution.
As college sports continue to evolve, it’s likely that we’ll see even more creative and unconventional nicknames emerge. Whether it’s a Blue Devil, a Billiken, or a Banana Slug, these mascots and nicknames play a crucial role in fostering school spirit and creating a sense of identity for students, alumni, and fans.
The next time you tune into a college basketball game, take a moment to appreciate the story behind the team names. You might be surprised by the depth of history and meaning behind even the oddest-sounding monikers. After all, it’s these unique identities that help make college basketball one of the most colorful and beloved sports in America.
College Basketball: Blue Devils, Hoyas and the 25 Oddest Team Names and Mascots | News, Scores, Highlights, Stats, and Rumors
- Facebook Logo
- Twitter Logo
- Copy Link Icon
Vin GetzCorrespondent IJanuary 13, 2011
College Basketball: Blue Devils, Hoyas and the 25 Oddest Team Names and Mascots
0 of 25
- Streeter Lecka/Getty Images
Blue Devils. Whether you love or hate Duke, that’s a cool nickname for a sports team, you have to admit.
But, what exactly is a Blue Devil?
Or a Hoya? Outside of college basketball, have you ever heard of such a thing?
Hokies? Billikens? Catamounts? Salukis? The list goes on.
What’s a Nittany, as in Nittany Lion? Where did they get that name Crimson Tide, anyway?
Here’s the 25 most unusual, offbeat Division I College Basketball team nicknames and their origins.
Along the way, take a look at each team’s (often equally odd) mascot.
Texas A&M AGGIES
1 of 25
To many, Aggies is not an unusual nickname for a college sports team, but ask many urbanites what an “Aggie” is and you may be met with a blank stare.
“Aggie” is a play on the word “agriculture.” The Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas was founded in 1876 and specialized in farming and military education. By 1963, the university had expanded well beyond its original focus and was renamed Texas A&M (the A&M a nod to the past).
Mascot: Reveille VIII. In 1931, school band members were returning from a party and accidentally hit a black and white mutt. They snuck the injured pooch back to the dorm, but their cover was blown when “Reveille” was trumpeted in the morning. The recovered pup would soon after lead the band onto the football field during half-time. From Reveille III on, the mascots have been Collies.
All Reveilles are Cadet Generals and are female. When the time comes to go to dog heaven, Reveille, who also cheers on the basketball team, is buried in a cemetery just outside Kyle Field.
Saint Louis BILLIKENS
2 of 25
- Doug Pensinger/Getty Images
What on earth is this?
It’s a Billiken.
A “Billiken” is a lucky charm doll that visited St. Louis native Florence Pretz in a dream in the early 1900’s. It has some similarities to kewpie troll dolls and cheerful Buddhas. Pretz patented the doll in 1908. If you rub its belly you get good luck.
Mascot: The Billiken was chosen in 1911 because it resembled football head coach John Bender.
Duke BLUE DEVILS
3 of 25
- Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
I thought devils were red. What’s this “Blue” Devil?
Blue Devils are dainty little flowering plants native to Australia that sport pretty blue and white flowers.
Kidding. Well, that is true, but that’s not where Duke got its nickname. The “Blue Devils” or “les Diables Bleus” were a famous-at-the-time World War I French battalion that bravely fought in the Alps. They wore blue berets and capes.
Mascot: The Blue Devil. The team got its nickname back in 1924 when the school newspaper selected “Blue Devils” a year after a poorly-organized vote failed to come up with a winner.
* Honorable Mention: DePaul Blue Demons. In 1900, DePaul devised athletic uniforms with a big letter “D” on them. Subsequently players became known as “D-Men,” which sounds like, and morphed into, “Demon.” Blue is one of the school’s official colors. The mascot is DIBS (Demon In a Blue Suit).
Vermont CATAMOUNTS
4 of 25
- Rick Stewart/Getty Images
A Catamount sounds like some sort of mechanical contraption or seafaring vehicle, but it’s a lot simpler than that: it’s a cat.
More precisely, “catamount,” refers to medium-sized wildcats like the cougar or lynx. Decades ago mountain lions inhabited Vermont and the cat was chosen as mascot due to its fierce reputation.
Mascot: Rally (Rally Cat) was introduced in 2004 when the University of Vermont retired long-time mascots Charlie and Kitty Catamount.
Coastal Carolina CHANTICLEERS
5 of 25
Chanticleer is a fancy way of saying “rooster.” I guess in this case, an odd aqua-green one with a mohawk.
There’s a little more history than that, though. “Chauntecleer,” a strutting rooster, is the main character in The Nun’s Priest’s Tale of the Cock and the Hen from Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, a fable about talking animals.
Coastal Carolina teams were originally called the Trojans, but they changed their name after affiliating with the University of South Carolina in 1960 to something more similar to USC’s mascot, the Gamecocks.
CC has since split from USC, but has kept the mascot.
Mascot: Chauncey the Chanticleer
Alabama CRIMSON TIDE
6 of 25
- Andy Lyons/Getty Images
Crimson Tide? Sounds biblical, like one of the plagues or something.
But the Alabama football team acquired the name for the school after a hard-fought, muddy Alabama-Auburn game.
The team’s original nicknames, “Crimson White” and the “Thin Red Line,” gave way to “Crimson Tide” following the 1907 contest. Hugh Roberts, sports editor of the Birmingham Age-Herald, coined the phrase after Alabama held favorite Auburn to a tie in the red mud.
Mascot: Big Al. What the? It’s an elephant. In 1930, as the Alabama football team rumbled onto the field a spectator shouted, “…the elephants are coming!” Soon after, the sports press referred to the team as “the red elephants.” Big Al was named by a student vote in 1979.
Wake Forest DEMON DEACONS
7 of 25
- Streeter Lecka/Getty Images
“Demon” and “Deacon” – not exactly chocolate and peanut butter.
Wake Forest was founded as a Baptist college. In the late 1800’s Wake Forest College’s mascot was the tiger. But in 1923, Mayon Parker, editor of the school newspaper began calling them the “Demon Deacons” thanks to their “devilish” play.
Mascot: The Demon Deacon made his first appearance in 1941, when Jack Baldwin and some fraternity brothers put together a homemade get-up.
Santa Barbara GAUCHOS
8 of 25
- Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images
“Gaucho” is a term used to describe South American cowboys of the 19th century, similar to American cowboys.
In 2009, UCSB rebranded their athletic teams under one name: “Gauchos”
Mascot: Ole’ made his debut in ’09 as well. Unofficially, Santa Barbara has another mascot, the Fantom of the Thunderdome.
Canisius GOLDEN GRIFFINS
9 of 25
A griffin is an ancient mythical beast with the body of a lion and the head and wings of an eagle.
A Golden Griffin is the cheerfully yellow mascot of Canisius University. Got the tail and everything. It became the school’s nickname in 1932 (or 1933) after Charles Brady wrote about LaSalle’s ship “Le Griffon” in an article celebrating Buffalo’s 100th Anniversary.
Mascot: The Golden Griffin
Virginia Tech HOKIES
10 of 25
- Doug Pensinger/Getty Images
I wouldn’t wear this outfit close to Thanksgiving, that’s for sure.
“Hokie,” by definition, is an emotional cheer, like “Yeah!” or “Hooray!”
In 1896, a contest was held to come up with a spirit yell for the school. This was the winner:
Hoki, Hoki, Hoki, Hy.
Techs, Techs, V.P.I.
Sola-Rex, Sola-Rah.
Polytechs – Vir-gin-ia.
Rae, Ri, V.P.I.
Mascot: Hokie Bird made its first appearance in the 1960’s. Originally, the Virgina Tech mascot was the turkey, and they were known as the “Fighting Gobblers.
” Even though the nickname changed to “Hokie,” the school kept the turkey connection. For more on the Hokie Bird and a look at the costumed mascot, click here.
Indiana HOOSIERS
11 of 25
- Brian Bahr/Getty Images
Everyone knows that “Hoosier” is synonymous with Indiana, but why?
This is what residents of Indiana call themselves. They are not “Indianians” (a la “New Yorkers” or “Texans”).
There are multiple theories as to where this word originated and how it came to be associated with Indiana. If you have the time, read Indiana University’s Jeffrey Graf’s superb essay on the origin of the word “Hoosier.”
Mascot: None. Perhaps one day there will be a fuzzy red animal patrolling the court, hopefully not.
Georgetown HOYAS
12 of 25
- Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
Q: What’s a Hoya?
A: Yes.
If Abbot and Costello had done a college basketball team routine instead of baseball, the Hoyas would feature.
Back in the 1870’s Georgetown sports teams were known as the “Stonewalls.” A short time later, in the 1890’s, students came up with the clever Greek/Latin chant “Hoya Saxa,” still in use today, which means roughly “What Rocks!” So, “Hoya” means “What.”
In 1926, “Hoyas” became the official school nickname.
Mascot: Jack the Bulldog. As early as the late 1800’s, Georgetown began having a dog as an unofficial mascot on-and-off, including some named “Hoya,” though not all were bulldogs. The costumed fellow made his first appearance in 1977.
Manhattan JASPERS
13 of 25
In the late 1800’s Brother Jasper was the Prefect of Discipline and coach of the Manhattan College baseball team. They were called the “Jaspers.“
Brother Jasper has another claim to fame. In 1882, during a close game on a hot day, he called a time-out in the seventh inning and asked the students and fans to stretch in one of the supposed origins of a great American tradition.
Mascot: None
Virginia Military Institute KEYDETS
14 of 25
VMI’s team nickname is the “Keydets,” southern-drawl for “Cadets.”
Mascot: Moe the Kangaroo. In 1947, two cheerleaders noted how unusual a mascot a kangaroo would be and went on to get a hold of a live one, who at first was named “TD Bound” by a school contest. Later the name was changed to “Moe.” The costumed kangaroo made its first appearance in the 1970’s.
North Texas MEAN GREEN
15 of 25
- Ronald Martinez/Getty Images
A lot of college nicknames have colors: that’s not so odd. But a “mean” color? That’s different…and so is the connection to one of its most famous alumni.
North Texas’ nickname used to be the “Eagles,” but in 1966 the North Texas football team, in particular the defense, was so fierce the name “Mean Green” began to catch on.
And who played left tackle for the Mean Green that year? Yup, “Mean” Joe Greene – his nickname a derivation of his alma mater.
Mascot: Scrappy. In 1922, a school vote selected an eagle as mascot, beating out a dragon and lion. In the 1960’s, the suited-up Scrappy flew onto the scene.
Chattanooga MOCS
16 of 25
The “Mocs,” originally “Moccasins” until 1996, is supposed to have gotten its name from the “Moccasin Bend” in the Tennessee river nearby. They have been represented by numerous mascots, including a moccasin snake, shoes for a time, a Cherokee tribesman, and finally the current mockingbird (Tennessee’s state bird).
Mascot: Scrappy the Mocking Bird came along with the name change in 1996. He’s dressed as a railroad engineer; Chattanooga was once a railroad hub. Scrappy is an homage to football coach A.C. “Scrappy” Moore.
Penn State NITTANY LIONS
17 of 25
- Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images
What’s a “Nittany?” [Jeopardy music]. It’s a mountain.
Nearby Mount Nittany lends its name to the Penn State mascot.
Apparently, mountain lions used to prowl on the mountain.
In 1907, Penn State senior H.D. Mason dreamed up the Nittany Lion. He was inspired to come up with a school mascot after encountering the Princeton Tiger a few years earlier.
Mascot: The Nittany Lion has donned its gear since 1923.
Syracuse ORANGE
18 of 25
- Ezra Shaw/Getty Images
Sure there are plenty of color references in team nicknames, but only one to “Orange” in Division I basketball.
In 1890, Syracuse adopted orange as it’s official color and their teams became known as the “Orangemen” or “Orangewomen”. In 2004, they changed the name to the more wieldy and gender-neutral “Orange.”
Mascot: Otto the Orange. Syracuse has had numerous mascots over the years including the “Saltine Warrior” and a Roman Warrior, but finally settled on Otto in 1982 (unofficially) and officially by vote in 1995 (over a wolf and lion).
Furman PALADINS
19 of 25
The Paladins were warriors of Charlemagne’s court. In the 1930’s Furman’s basketball team was first referred to as “the Paladins” in the press.
Mascot: Pass (who rides Goliath) was introduced in 1961 when a student vote selected “Paladins” to be the official team name for all sports.
Southern Illinois SALUKIS
20 of 25
Egad. What manner of beast is this?
Clyde Frazier will tell you it’s a Saluki, a rather fascinating dog. One of the oldest breeds, its likeness appears on Egyptian tombs over 4,000 years old. For that reason, it is also called “The Royal Dog of Egypt.”
The area known as “Southern Illinois” has been called “Little Egypt” since the 1830’s, and in 1951 SIU chose “Salukis” to be their nickname.
Mascot: The Saluki Dog
Wichita State SHOCKERS
21 of 25
- Streeter Lecka/Getty Images
This guy’s using too much conditioner.
“Shocking” is a term for harvesting wheat. At the turn of the century, Wichita State football games were played on a recently shocked field that still had wheat stubs left over. Old school.
WSU’s teams were originally called the “Wheatshockers,” later shortened to “Shockers.“
Mascot: WuShock. In 1948, WWII veteran Wilbur Elsea won a competition to come up with a mascot.
Oklahoma SOONERS
22 of 25
What’s a Sooner? It’s a settler who entered the lands of what would eventually be called Oklahoma. More specifically, they entered the land before it was “legally” authorized by Congress to do so.
Oklahoma stuck with the name “Sooners,” in 1908 after trying out “Rough Riders” and “Boomers” earlier in its history.
Mascot: Sooner (and Boomer). The Sooner Schooner, pulled by live horses Sooner and Boomer, have been a fixture of Oklahoma football games since 1964.
In 2005, OU introduced the costumed mascots.
Arizona State SUN DEVILS
23 of 25
- Stephen Dunn/Getty Images
A “Sun Devil” is a made-up character that was contrived by Connecticut sportswriter Ryan Drost.
In 1946, the Sun Devil was officially adopted as Arizona State’s mascot. Sparky was designed by Bert Anthony, a former Disney cartoonist. Word is, he drew it to look a little like Walt himself. Hmm.
Mascot: Sparky
North Carolina TAR HEELS
24 of 25
- Streeter Lecka/Getty Images
Tar Heel? Is that a sailor’s shoe? No.
Similar to Indiana’s “Hoosier,” North Carolina residents refer to themselves as “Tar Heels.” NC is also known as the “Tar Heel State.” There’s a long history why, including the fact that North Carolina was a big producer of tar in the 18th century – find out more here.
UNC was founded in 1795, right on the “heels” of NC’s reputation as the biggest producer of tar.
Mascot: Rameses (the Ram). In 1924, UNC’s football coach began bringing a live ram to games against the Virginia Military Institute for good luck. One of the Tar Heels’ players, and the inspiration for the trick, was Jack “The Battering Ram” Merrit.
Akron ZIPS
25 of 25
- Jonathan Ferrey/Getty Images
Zips? I hope they’re not referring to the score.
In 1925, contest winner Margaret Hamlin’s suggestion “Zippers” became Akron’s nickname. A Zipper was a rubber overshoe made by BF Goodrich that was wildly popular at the time.
In 1950, the name was shortened to “Zips.”
Mascot: Zippy the Kangaroo was chosen by a school committee in 1953. She is one of the few female mascots and won the 2007 Capital One Mascot of the Year challenge, going undefeated.
The Story of the Blue Devil
During World War I the Chasseurs Alpins, nicknamed “les Diables Bleus,” were well known French soldiers.
They first gained attention when their unique training and alpine knowledge was counted upon to break the stalemate of trench warfare in their native region of the French Alps. Unfortunately the Vosges Campaign in March, 1915, failed to alter the status quo even though the Blue Devils won accolades for their courage. However, their distinctive blue uniform with flowing cape and jaunty beret captured public imagination. When the United States entered the war, units of the French Blue Devils toured the country helping raise money in the war effort. Irving Berlin captured their spirit in song describing them as “strong and active, most attractive . . . those Devils, the Blue Devils of France.”
As the war was ending in Europe, the Trinity College Board of Trustees lifted its quarter-century ban of football on campus. After playing an intramural class schedule for one year, Trinity began intercollegiate competition in 1920. That first year the traditional nomenclature of the Trinity Eleven, the Blue and White or the Methodists (as opposed to the Baptists of nearby Wake Forest) described the team.
In September, 1921, the student newspaper, the Trinity Chronicle, launched a campaign for a “catchy name, one of our own possession that would be instantly recognizable nationwide in songs, yells and publicity.” At a campus pep rally to stir up enthusiasm it was pointed out that Georgia Tech was gaining recognition as the “Golden Tornados” and that rival North Carolina State College had recently adopted the name “Wolf Pack.” There were numerous nominations including Catamounts, Grizzlies, Badgers, Dreadnaughts, and Captains which was in honor of the well-liked Coach W. W. “Cap” Card. Believing a choice utilizing the school colors of dark blue and white to be appropriate, the newspaper editors urged a selection from among the nominations of Blue Titans, Blue Eagles, Polar Bears, Blue Devils, Royal Blazes, or Blue Warriors. None of the nominations won strong favor but Blue Devils apparently had enough support to elicit the criticism that it would arouse opposition on the Methodist campus “for obvious reasons,” and that it might prove risky and jeopardize football if a controversial name were used at that particular time.
The football season passed with no official selection of a name.
As the campus leaders from the Class of 1923 made plans for their senior year, they decided to select a name since the desired results by democratic nomination and vote had been inconclusive. The editors of The Archive and The Chanticleer, two of the other student publications, agreed that the newspaper staff should choose a name and “put it over.” Thus William H. Lander, as editor-in-chief, and Mike Bradshaw, as managing editor, of the Trinity Chronicle began the academic year 1922-23 referring to the athletic teams as the Blue Devils. Their class had been the first post-war freshmen and the student body was full of returning veterans so the name needed no explanation. Acknowledging that it was somewhat unpopular, they nevertheless believed it to be the best name nominated.
Neither the college press nor the cheerleaders used the name that first year. In fact, The Chanticleer made fun of the selection and process by quoting someone saying “We will use blew devvies even if no one else does.
” Much to the editor’s surprise no opposition materialized, not even from the college administration. The Chronicle staff continued its use and through repetition, Blue Devils eventually caught on. Today the origin of the university mascot is virtually forgotten even though its instant, national recognition has long been established. With the popular Red Devil mascot frequently being challenged throughout the country, the origin of Duke’s Blue Devil is one of the most often requested items of information in the University Archives. Questioners are universally surprised to discover its origin is more military and patriotic than religious.
Dictionary of great climbers. Duke of Abruzzi
More than 10 years ago I wrote a chapter about foreign climbers for the Mountaineering Encyclopedia. Then, in narrow paragraphs, it was necessary to squeeze in bright and rich destinies of people who have become iconic in the history of mountain sports. I wanted to tell about almost each of them in more detail, and in a more literary, readable form.
This idea constantly lived in me and gradually acquired texts in the computer. Now I understand what I wanted. Approximately the following: to approach the submission of biographies in an original way, in order to use the example of people’s life activities to try to understand the general logic of the development of mountaineering.
History through the prism of personal destinies
Chapter 1. The age of outgoing monarchies
Part 1
More than 10 years ago I wrote a chapter about foreign climbers for the Mountaineering Encyclopedia, which was published in 2006 under the editorship of P.P. Zakharov. Then, in narrow paragraphs, it was necessary to squeeze in bright and rich destinies of people who have become iconic in the history of mountain sports. I wanted to tell about almost each of them in more detail, and in a more literary, readable form. This idea constantly lived in me and gradually acquired texts in the computer. Now, I understand what I wanted.
Approximately the following: to approach the submission of biographies in an original way, in order to use the example of people’s life activities to try to understand the general logic of the development of mountaineering.
Without any intention, just in alphabetical order, the first in the encyclopedia was the Abruzzo Luigi Amadeo di Savoia (1873-1933, Italy). So he is the first in all climbing biographical publications of the Western world. Although, I must say that in reality, his surname is di Savoia. Let’s think that the first place of this character is not accidental. That this is a clear hint that the history of mountaineering should begin with a general picture of the world at the time of its birth and formation, with an economic, cultural and, above all, political picture. And during the period of the birth, formation and flourishing of mountaineering, that is, from the middle of the 18th century to the beginning of the First World War, the content of history was primarily the confrontation between the reigning dynasties and the confrontation of these dynasties with liberalism, anarchism and socialism.
Although, of course, everything was determined by the productive forces and production relations. Who will argue here?
| Ceremonial portrait of the Duke of Abruzzo |
This is how it is written about him in the encyclopedia. Abruzzo Luigi Amadeo di Savoia (1873-1933, Italy).
The Duke of Abruzzo belonged to the royal family that ruled in Italy. In this country, united into a single state only in the second half of the 19th century, interest in mountaineering began to manifest itself at the highest level. The Duke of Abruzzi spent a lot of time in the Alps, made dozens of interesting ascents. He is rightfully considered one of the pioneers of winter ascents. He had a great influence on the training of Italian mountain guides. Abruzzi organized and led three large exploratory climbing expeditions: 1897 – Alaska, the first attempt to conquer Mount St.
Elijah; 1906 – Uganda, Rwenzori massif; 1909 – Karakorum, reconnaissance of the route on K2, climbing Chogoliza peak up to 7498 meters (altitude record).
Crowned persons, rulers of countries… what is their role in the history of mountaineering? Were they the initiators or promoters of the idea of mountain development, everything came from their will, or did they stand aside? It is hard to imagine, for example, that the expedition of General Emanuel to the northern foot of Elbrus took place without the knowledge and approval of Sovereign Nicholas the First. Just like the ascent of Parrot to Ararat. But these were only episodes, there was no talk of supporting mountaineering by the authorities in Russia. How about in Europe?
The King of Sardinia, which included Savoy along with the Chamonix valley, Victor Amadeus III of Savoy, was somewhat proud that his subject Jacques Balma was the first person to climb Mont Blanc, the highest peak of the Alps.
At least he paid attention to it. The ascent took place in 1786, on August 8. Now this date is now celebrated as the birthday of mountaineering. On this occasion, the king issued a decree (or order) that Jacques Balma henceforth has the right to call himself “Jacques Balma Mont Blanc”. But this was the first stage in the development of mountaineering, characterized only by episodic ascents. The formation of mountaineering, as a more or less mass occupation, dates back to the second half of the 19th century, when all the objective prerequisites were ripe for this.
With the development of newspapers as mass media, the movements of royalty began to be monitored with particular attention. And the crowned had to behave in such a way as to set an example of behavior for their peoples. Who knows what role this played in the development of interest in the mountains. Any information about campaigns, travels or ascensions of royalty immediately became the subject of gossip and discussion.
When, in 1856, the young emperor of Austria-Hungary Franz Josef made an exit to the Pasterze glacier at the foot of the Grossglockner, his wife, the beautiful Elisabeth of Bavaria, remained waiting at the tongue of the glacier. This married couple first spent the summer months in the foothills of the Alps, where they actually met. The imperial couple made periodic mountain walks and even easy climbs. Then, without a workaholic husband, Elizabeth began to travel the world alone for a long time, at some time becoming interested in mountaineering. It is known that in 1885 the Empress climbed to the top of the Gossen Buchstein in the Gesuse massif with guides along a rather difficult route.
The tale of Franz Josef and Elisabeth is still popular in Europe |
The whole of Great Britain closely followed Queen Victoria’s visit to Switzerland.
But it was more of a tribute to fashion on her part, walking in the mountains was not for her build. The queen wanted to see with her own eyes where her subjects travel with such excitement. The Bavarian King Ludwig discussed everything with particular pleasure. Of course, he was an eccentric, but he sincerely loved nature, which could not but be transmitted to his subjects.
Seriously speaking, the main thing that the monarchs did for mountaineering in the second half of the century was to ensure a more or less stable political environment. And as a result – the growth of the economy, the living standards of people, transport, printing and …. mountaineering.
Let us now return to the small homeland of mountaineering, to the foot of Mont Blanc. In Savoy, for a long time, almost since Roman times, there was a ruler. And by the very beginning of the first millennium, a stable family of rulers had formed, which eventually became known as the House of Savoy or the Savoy Dynasty.
The Dukes of Savoy were in constant concern about how to expand their possessions and how to defend what they had won. By the will of historical fate, they fell to become the kings of Sardinia, then Piedmont and, finally, the unifiers of all Italy. And at the same time, to lose their historical homeland…
In 1860, after a demonstrative referendum, Savoy, together with Chamonix, became part of France. Its results were honest, but by and large, it was just a payment for the help that the French emperor provided to the troops of the Sardinian king in the war with the Habsburg Empire. On this occasion, the foot of Mont Blanc was visited by Napoleon III himself with his wife. They made an excursion to the Mer de Glace glacier. The emperor was in obvious euphoria. The new ruler was clearly trying to support the myth of his great ancestor Napoleon the First, who was known as the conqueror of the Alps for crossing St. Bernard in 1800.
The “Savoys” did not greatly experience the loss of their native Savoy, by that time they already fully felt themselves to be future Italian monarchs.
And the acquisition of Lombardy for them was a more important event. Soon most of Italy was united under the rule of King Victor Emmanuel (Vittorio Emmanuele) II. For the country, this was also a period of patriotic upsurge, almost nationalist euphoria.
The climbing spirit entered the Savoia royal family on this Italian patriotic wave. One of the main protagonists of the era of the unification of Italy and its formation was Quintino Sela, who for a couple of decades held the main posts in the kingdom. As finance minister, he was essentially the chief, most influential official in the king’s entourage. And Sella put a lot of effort into the development of mountaineering in the country. He was the initiator of the creation of the Italian Mountaineering Club, by his will shelters were built in the mountains, professional associations of guides were formed. In the history of mountaineering, Quintino Sella is noted for his active participation in the opening of the route to the Matterhorn from the Italian side.
Margherita di Savoia, who became Queen in 1878, was the main mountaineer in the family. By the way, she was the first queen in the history of the country. It so happened that Margherita became the wife of her cousin Umberto and for Luigi Amadeo she was twice an aunt. The mother of the future duke died when the boy was three years old and the queen, to some extent, replaced her. She took the boy to the mountains.
| Queen Margherita at the opening of Orphanage |
Queen Margherita climbed Monterosa (Punto Nifetti) in 1893, at the top of which she inaugurated the highest mountain hut in Europe that bears her name. The height of the hut is 4559 meters. This was a significant event for the whole nation and especially for the twenty-year-old Duke of Abruzzo. This was his second season in mountaineering. This year he is sent to Somalia, where he receives a baptism of fire, participating in the suppression of rebellions.
The full name of the Duke of Abruzzo was Luigi Amedeo Giuseppe Maria Ferdinando Francesco, he was born in 1873, the son of the King of Spain. Soon, more precisely, 6 days after the birth of the future duke, his father (the brother of the Italian king) was forced to renounce the throne. The family returns to Italy. For his grown-up nephew, King Umberto of Italy came up with a special unique title – the Duke of Abruzzo. By and large, the royal family was always looking for a place where they could attach the grown-up Luigi Amadeo to reign. He was a pretender to the throne in Greece, Albania, and after a big war was close to becoming the ruler of Hungary.
Although Luigi’s father categorically retired from political affairs, he allowed his son to be raised according to the royal program. That is, with an eye on some throne and in a strict military spirit. The fleet was chosen for specialization, the boy was prepared from childhood for the role of a naval commander. However, holidays were often spent in the mountains, in the company of the queen and tutors.
Actively engaged in mountaineering Luigi Amadeo only after graduation, at the age of 19. Its first big peak was Gran Paradiso. Already in the first year, the duke crossed the traverse of Mont Blanc, climbed Monterosa and then took part in the traverse of the Matterhorn.
In 1894, the duke made several technically difficult ascents in the massif of the Needles of Chamonix, ascending the Petit Dru. In Chamonix, he met and became friends with the leading climber of the time, Englishman Alfred Mummery. Together they go to Zermatt, where they pass the Zmutt route to the Materhorn. This was the first ascent of this difficult route without guides. Then the duke also ascends the Danes d’Hérens and the Gabelhorn.
In 1895, Mummery, with two porters, disappeared during the first serious Himalayan expedition on the slopes of Nanga Parbat. Two years later, the duke financed a search expedition, which did not find the bodies, but determined the approximate place of death of the climbers.
And the reason is an avalanche. In memory of Mummery, the duke decided to definitely make a serious ascent in the Himalayas. But first, he had to make a round-the-world trip as the captain of the ship. On the way, the Italians called at the port of Calcutta and the duke with a small group went to the mountains, to the foot of Kanchenjunga. However, they ran into a ban by the British colonial authorities, due to epidemics.
At this time, the Italian-Savoy royal house was in a depressed mood. The military defeat in Ethiopia was a real disgrace. Go fight there! But no one pays attention to objective difficulties: the Italians lost to the savages – that’s the whole point. It was for the purpose of raising the national spirit that Luigi Amadeo took the money to conduct an expedition to Mount St. Elias.
Mount St. Elijah (now its height is determined in 5489m) at that time was considered the highest in North America.
What kind of peak it is, you can put on a show if you watch a film by Austrian filmmakers and extreme skiers, which received the Grand Prix of the Vertical festival. Fortunately, the duke did not see this film, otherwise he would not have dared to climb. Terrible and dangerous array, standing right by the sea, the difference coincides with the absolute height. Before that, the Americans had made six attempts to climb and the route had been climbed up to 4200 meters. The Italians took advantage of the results of their intelligence.
It took about a month to explore and process the route. Several camps were set up along the route of the ascent. And, in the end, an unprecedented success was achieved: on July 31, the team climbed to the top almost in full force. They were the naval officer Umberto Cagni, the lawyer Francesco Gonella, the scientist Filipo De Filippi, the photographer Vittorio Sella and his assistant Erminio Bota, the guides Joseph Petijac (as the name Petigax is read in Aosta) and Laurent Croux from Courmayeur, Jean Antoine Macinha and Andrea Pelissier from Valtournenche .
Well, the Duke of Abruzzo, of course. The climbing route is not currently used due to avalanche danger, and there are few other routes here. The second ascent was made only at 1946 year. And there were only a few of them in history. Of course, the ascent of the team of the Duke of Abruzzo was the most difficult in history at that time, and the expedition was the most successful.
The Duke and his team were welcomed back home as heroes. They passed through the cities, welcoming enthusiastic crowds of people. Never before in the history of mountaineering has there been anything like it. The 24-year-old captain assumed the honorary duty of a national hero. On the wave of general enthusiasm, Luigi Amadeo convinces his uncle and aunt to allocate huge funds to solve the most ambitious task of the time – reaching the North Pole.
The Duke of Abruzzi personally came to Norway to meet and consult with Fridtjof Nansen, a man who had just returned from an amazing two-year trip to the Pole.
In the same place in Norway, Luigi Amadeo chose and bought the whaling ship Jason. Under his supervision, the ship was converted for research purposes and adapted for navigation in ice. The ship was given a new name “Stella Polaris”, that is, the Polar Star.
In terms of scale, the expedition had no analogues until now, the royal person was able to collect quite a lot of funds. The backbone of the group was made up of members of the expedition to Mount St. Elijah. The composition also included Norwegians. during 189In 2008, the Italians hold a training camp in Svalbard, where they conduct research and make several easy ascents. Together with Kanye, the duke goes to Siberia, where he selects sled dogs for the expedition. And in a short period between cases, Luigi Amadeo gets out to the Alps, where he successfully climbs four peaks that have not yet been conquered. He names one of them in honor of his beloved aunt Punto Margherita (Grand Jorasses massif). Early in 1899, the Duke conducts a successful winter ascent of Monte Viso.
In the summer of 1899, the expedition to the North Pole begins with a visit to Arkhangelsk, where they ordered a significant part of the provisions, one hundred and twenty dogs and some equipment. The Duke is received with honors appropriate to his rank. The starting point of the ascent to the Pole is Franz Josef Land (FJL), discovered by Austrian expeditions in the early 70s and named after their emperor.
In general, the vast FJL archipelago was not yet sufficiently studied by scientists, but it was believed that it had convenient bays for wintering. “Stella Polaris” was fully provided for a relatively comfortable long-term parking. But things didn’t go the way they wanted. Due to heavy ice conditions, it was not possible to break through to the place of the planned wintering. Stuck in the ice, Stella Polaris stood in an unfortunate place, soon seriously leaned over, so that it was impossible to stay in it. I had to put up two large tents and live in them. Already in December, at the very beginning of wintering, the following unpleasant incident occurred.
On a training exit to the glacier, the Duke of Abruzzo himself (together with Cagny) fell into a crack. He was restrained and pulled out, but Luigi Amadeo received frostbite and the doctor had to amputate a couple of phalanges of his fingers.
February 22, 1900 on the main, decisive assault on the North Pole, a group led by Captain Umberto Cagni, without the duke .. They leave for the first time with a false start, too early, frost up to -55 ° returns the group to the camp. As a result, the second exit on March 11 turned out late. The heroic epic of their campaign lasts 104 days. The team turns back on April 21 and returns when everyone in the camp has lost hope. Returns to the limit, and not all, three polar explorers from the auxiliary group disappeared without a trace.
All those who return come with frostbite and are completely exhausted. The record for moving to the North is set – 86 ° 34 ‘, this is only not much further than Nansen (37 kilometers) and very far from the Pole.
| Umberto Cagni during the polar epic |
After recovering, resting and writing reports, Luigi Amadeo sets off on his second circumnavigation. At the same time, options for new climbing expeditions are constantly being worked out. In 1904, Sir Henry Stanley, the greatest explorer of Central Africa, a man whom the duke sincerely admired, dies. In his honour, Luigi Amadeo plans a climbing and scientific expedition to the very heart of the African continent. To the mysterious Mountains of the Moon or Rwenzori in the local way, discovered by the legendary Englishman.
This is a giant meridional ridge on the equator, known since ancient times as a very unfriendly place.
Surrounded by impenetrable and dangerous forests, the mountains are constantly covered with clouds, high humidity, rain and fog are not the best conditions for research. But this time the expedition ends with brilliant results, and even the weather is favorable for travelers. The mountain range, to which the duke named Stanley (Mount Stanley), was fully explored. Made 13 ascents to its main peaks.
| Duke in the middle, with guides (left – Petitjac, right – Olier) |
The main peaks of the Mount Stanley massif receive the names of the royal majesties: Margherita (5109 m), Alexandra (5091 m) and Albert (5087 m). The latter is in honor of the future king of Belgium, one of the initiators of the expedition. It will be discussed in more detail in the second part of our story.
In 1909, the duke leads another historic expedition, thanks to which his name is now constantly on the lips of those who are interested in mountaineering.
The Rib of Abruzzo is the name of the most popular route on K2. So, the Italians go to Karakoram, to the foot of the second peak of the world. The composition is all the same people, first of all – permanent guides from Aosta.
The very peak of K2, “Capo due” – as the Italians say, has been studied from all sides. From the west, the duke with Petitzhak ascends the pass, now called Savoy (6666 meters). From the east, an attempt is made to climb the seven-thousander Skiang Kangri. Camp 1 was set at an altitude of 6500 meters. However, it was not possible to go far higher, the path was blocked by huge cracks.
The Italians attempted to climb K2 along the route, which is now called the Abruzzi route. A hopeless attempt. The technical difficulties of the route absolutely did not allow local porters to work on it. Yes, and for climbers, hanging ropes were required.
There were a record number of them in the expedition for that time – 400 meters. Ridiculous by today’s standards. Above 6000 meters the team did not rise. The Duke of Abruzzi made a very categorical conclusion – K2 can only be reached by plane.
Leaving the K2 base camp, the duke chooses Chogoliza (7670 m), then called Bride Peak, as the object of climbing. A logical route along a long ridge leads to it. The ascent stops at an altitude of 7500 meters on June 18, 1909 due to fog and strong winds. This high altitude record, achieved by the guide Joseph Petijac, was only beaten by the British on Everest in 1922.
| Duke’s expedition under K2, in the background on the right – Chogoliza |
This was the Duke’s last climbing feat. He was called to affairs of state. Italy enters the war with Turkey and the Duke of Abruzzo leads the royal Adriatic fleet, which played a crucial role in the victory of his country.
Then comes the First World War, which Italy enters in 1915. The fleet under the command of Luigi Amadeo dominates the Adriatic Sea and the duke conducts a brilliant operation to evacuate the Serbian army (more than 100 thousand people). True, at 19In the year 18, after several sabotage, at the insistence of the allies, the duke was removed from command. But at the end of the war, he is again a national hero. However, soon Mussolini came to power in the country, the royal family began to fade into the shadows.
Since 1923, Luigi Amadeo has finally become a “colonizer”, in the most positive sense of the word. He is fully committed to the development of agriculture in Somalia. Through his efforts, a large agricultural enterprise was built, which began to supply Europe with fresh vegetables and fruits. The most important factor was artificial irrigation, water was sorely lacking. To create a system of reservoirs, the duke undertakes a number of research expeditions to the sources of the rivers, to the mountainous regions of Ethiopia.
During the last of them, Luigi Amadeo falls seriously ill. An unknown infection or an exacerbation of an old disease, doctors have not identified.
| The last award of the Duke of Abruzzo |
In 1933, in February, the Duke of Abruzzo comes to Italy to say goodbye. His friend King Albert of Belgium is the most welcome guest. They part with a sad smile, both great climbers of royal blood have very little time left to live. One of them knows about it, the other doesn’t.
How, as an adult, he got into a fight with his older brother, Prince William, or, more precisely, how his older brother broke his chain around his neck during a fight and threw him onto a dog bowl that was on the floor. About that fight and how the fragments crashed into Harry’s back, he talks in the book “Spare”. But, apparently, the fragments hit him not only in the back.
“Reserve” was half-jokingly called in England any younger offspring in a royal or simply in an aristocratic family, when the eldest inherited the title, and the one born behind him became a spare in case the heir died or, as happened with King Edward VIII, abdicated.
He never managed to “free himself” from resentment, envy and childhood trauma. You do not believe many of the statements in the book, you doubt some of the stated “facts” and claims.
That is, they would not mind their dad, the future king, living with his mistress?
Harry describes a fight with his older brother, who allegedly attacked him, threw him on the floor (on a dog bowl) and broke the neck chain. Who didn’t have fights with their siblings as a child? But the difference is that the fight that Harry described happened not so long ago – in connection with his marriage to Megan, when the prince was 33 years old.
Diana felt “alien”, although in her case this was aggravated by the fact that she really was a stranger and unloved wife of Crown Prince Charles, who was in love with Camilla. As the Princess of Wales admitted in a sensational interview with the BBC, “their marriage was crowded.” But it is strange that Harry, who so jealously kept the memory of his mother, could not take into account her sad experience.
The Taliban themselves are also outraged, who now declare him a war crime, although Harry writes that there were no civilians among those killed by him. It must be said that the prince describes his role in hostilities quite dispassionately. “I’m not proud or ashamed of what I’ve done.” He says that in order not to be tormented by remorse, he represented the enemies as “chess pieces” that simply had to be removed from the board.
