The Valpo Crusaders mascot, known as the Torchbearer, is a symbol of strength and perseverance. The Crusaders, the athletic teams of Valparaiso University, have embraced this mascot since 1942. The Torchbearer is depicted as a knight in shining armor, carrying a torch and a shield with the letter "V" for Valpo. The mascot represents the university's commitment to excellence and its steadfastness in the pursuit of success. The Torchbearer's attire consists of a golden helmet, a crimson cape, and silver armor. The mascot's presence at Valpo sporting events encourages students and fans to rally behind their teams and show their school spirit.
In a statement, university officials mentioned the use of the term by the Ku Klux Klan and that crusader imagery was displayed by individuals who participated in the Jan. 6. U.S. Capitol riot.
Valparaiso is the latest in a series of professional sports teams and college athletic programs to examine and abandon team names and mascots amid a national discussion on the meaning of such symbols. The Crusader mascot is not only of concern to our current students but has been under scrutiny during the past few decades as it can be associated with aggressive religious oppression and violence, Irwin-Knott said.
The mascot's presence at Valpo sporting events encourages students and fans to rally behind their teams and show their school spirit. The Torchbearer is often seen leading cheers, interacting with the crowd, and hyping up the atmosphere. The use of a knight as the Valpo Crusaders' mascot is meaningful in several ways.
Valparaiso University to drop Crusader mascot, citing name's association to hate groups
Valparaiso University announced it will begin looking for a new nickname and mascot on Thursday, Feb. 11, 2021.
Posted at 8:41 AM, Feb 12, 2021 and last updated 2021-02-12 08:52:57-05VALAPARAISO — Valparaiso University will begin a search for a new mascot after campus leaders announced Thursday the school will abandon the Crusader nickname due to its association with hate groups.
The Lutheran university's faculty and student senates each passed resolutions calling for the change and the university's board of directors supported examining the appropriateness of the team name, interim president Colette Irwin-Knott said in a video posted online.
Irwin-Knott said hate groups such as the Ku Klux Klan have adopted and embraced the Crusades and its symbols. The Crusades were a series of religious wars in the 11th century between Christians and Muslims. Valparaiso's mascot is a helmeted figure that wears faux armor.
"In fact, a newspaper of the KKK carries the name 'The Crusader,' and this is not something we want to be connected with Valparaiso University in any way," Irwin-Knott said. "The negative connotation and violence associated with the Crusader is not reflective of Valpo's mission and values, which promote a welcoming and inclusive community."
Student body president Kaitlyn Steinhiser said many students are eager to see the Crusader mascot retired.
"Mascots are intended to help us show our school spirit and represent Valpo values, rather than be divisive and symbolize negativity," Steinhiser said. "There has been a growing concern from students on campus about how the current Crusader mascot represents us, as well as how it may impact prospective students’ views of our university."
A new mascot has not been announced by the university and leaders did not provide a timetable for when one will be named. The Northwest Indiana school has been known as the Crusaders since 1942.
Valparaiso is the latest in a series of professional sports teams and college athletic programs to examine and abandon team names and mascots amid a national discussion on the meaning of such symbols.
Major League Baseball's Cleveland Indians announced in December a plan to drop the team name it has had since 1915. The Washington Football Team changed its name before the 2020 NFL season.
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Valparaiso University announced it will begin looking for a new nickname and mascot on Thursday, Feb. 11, 2021.
Firstly, it reflects the university's Christian heritage and the Crusaders' commitment to upholding values of faith and service. Secondly, the knight symbolizes bravery and chivalry, embodying the spirit of competition and fair play. The Torchbearer is a cherished part of Valparaiso University's tradition and serves as a rallying point for students, alumni, and fans. The mascot's presence brings energy and excitement to sporting events and unites the Valpo community in support of their teams. Whether on the field or in the stands, the Torchbearer represents the dedication and pride of being a Valpo Crusader..
Reviews for "The Valpo Crusaders Mascot: Engaging with the Valparaiso Community through Outreach Programs"
1. John Smith - 1 star - I have to say, the Valpo Crusaders mascot is just downright offensive. The use of a medieval knight as a mascot for a university sports team is not only outdated, but it also perpetuates harmful stereotypes about the Crusades. As a modern society, we should be moving away from glorifying violence and instead focus on fostering unity and inclusivity. Valpo needs to seriously reconsider their choice of mascot.
2. Emily Johnson - 2 stars - While I appreciate the effort to have a unique mascot, I find the Valpo Crusaders mascot to be uninspiring and uninspiring. The concept of a knight feels overdone and lacks originality. Additionally, the design of the mascot itself is lacking in creativity and fails to elicit any excitement or team spirit. I believe Valpo could benefit from reimagining their mascot to better represent their team and captivate the audience.
3. Michael Thompson - 1 star - The Valpo Crusaders mascot is simply ridiculous. I mean, who thought a medieval knight was a good representation of a university sports team? It's completely out of touch with modern sports culture and fails to connect with fans. I would much rather see a mascot that reflects the energetic and dynamic nature of the team, rather than some outdated, cliché image. Valpo needs to reconsider their choice and embrace a more contemporary mascot.