bring luck to their teams and represent
admirable qualities.
Many mascots have significance to the
people who support that school. The
gamecock chosen by the University of
South Carolina makes reference to Thomas
Sumter, while bringing to mind the
determined, fighting nature of the birds
themselves.
Tigers are very popular as mascots because
they are strong and terrifying predators.
The University of Texas at Austin uses the
longhorn steer, which is associated with
the state’s dominance in the cattle industry.
The University of Florida uses the alligator,
which is also the official state reptile.
Gladys: Are there any surprising mascots?
Victoria: The University of Maryland has
a turtle—a diamondback terrapin to be
exact. A turtle may not make you think of
speed and strength, but they are a symbol
of longevity, and the diamondback terrapin
is the state reptile.
Campbell University in North Carolina has
a very enigmatic mascot. They are known
as the “Fighting Camels” and no one seems
to know exactly why. It does make their
mascot one of the most unique in the
country.
their team loyalties using the mascots, as
well as school colors.
Some schools have live animals as their
mascots and many have people dressed
in costume. These mascots provide
entertainment at games during timeouts
and halftime. No matter what happens
during a game, the mascots are fun.
Gladys: Do you have a favorite mascot?
Victoria: Of course I do. My favorite
mascot is a grasshopper name Gladys!
Gladys: What are mascots for?
Victoria: Mascots help to generate team
spirit. People like to rally around their
school’s team, and the mascot gives them a
common symbol. Sports fans can identify
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