The CU buffalo mascot, also known as Ralphie, is a beloved and iconic symbol of school spirit at the University of Colorado Boulder. Ralphie is a live buffalo that leads the football team onto the field at home games. Ralphie is known for being strong, powerful, and full of energy. She represents the determination and tenacity of the university's athletes and is a source of inspiration for both students and fans. The tradition of having a live buffalo as a mascot dates back to 1934 when a group of students introduced a baby buffalo named Ralph as the university's first mascot. Over the years, the tradition grew and evolved, with Ralph being succeeded by other buffalo mascots, all named Ralphie.
CU's team may be called the "Buffs," but the more scientifically-accurate term for Ralphie is a North American Bison, Neely said.
You can tell the difference between a bison and buffalo because bison have large humps at their shoulders and bigger heads than buffalo, the Smithsonian s National Zoo Conservation Biology Institute said. Then Ralphie VI introduced herself to the world, with dark brown fur and doe eyes and tiny horns that have inches to go before becoming the handlebar mustache-style horns buffaloes are famous for.
Over the years, the tradition grew and evolved, with Ralph being succeeded by other buffalo mascots, all named Ralphie. The current Ralphie, Ralphie V, made her debut in 2008 and has been an integral part of game days ever since. She lives on a ranch in Colorado and is cared for by the Ralphie Handlers, a group of student volunteers who are responsible for her well-being and safety.
Colorado Buffaloes select new live mascot — Ralphie VI
The University of Colorado has found its next Ralphie — even if it’s unclear when she will actually make her debut.
Athletic director Rick George wrote in a newsletter sent out to Buffs fans Friday that the university selected a new buffalo to serve as Ralphie VI.
The university previously revealed back in the spring that a female buffalo had been picked to replace Ralphie V, who retired at the end of the 2019 season, according to the sports information department. George wrote this week that she has been training “at a pace the 14-month-old buffalo is comfortable with.”
RELATED: Colorado Buffaloes mascot Chip wrecked by T-shirt cannon misfireIn addition to a new animal, Taylor Stratton has been selected as the Ralphie program manager after John Graves stepped down at the start of April. Stratton had been the assistant manager the previous four years.
“It’s a whole lot of things,” Graves told The Post. “We look at their temperament, how comfortable they are around humans. We also look at the characteristics of their legs and joints and what they look like (there). And making sure they’re happy and healthy. There’s a whole lot we look at.”
The sight of Ralphie thundering onto the field before a game is a thrilling experience for both fans and players alike. It symbolizes the unity and pride of the university community and serves as a reminder of the rich traditions and history of the University of Colorado Boulder. In addition to her role at football games, Ralphie also participates in other university events and serves as a goodwill ambassador, making appearances at parades, fundraisers, and community outreach programs. She is a beloved figure not only on campus but also in the wider Colorado community. Overall, the CU buffalo mascot, Ralphie, is a cherished symbol of school spirit, tradition, and strength. Her presence at games and events brings joy, excitement, and a sense of pride to the University of Colorado Boulder..
Reviews for "CU Buffalo Mascot: Building Bridges Between Athletics and Academics"
1. John - 1 star - I was extremely disappointed with the CU buffalo mascot. It lacked any creativity or originality. It was simply a person dressed in a poorly designed buffalo costume. There was nothing memorable or exciting about it. I expected more from a university with such a strong sports program. Overall, it was a major letdown.
2. Sarah - 2 stars - The CU buffalo mascot was underwhelming to say the least. It looked more like a cheap Halloween costume than a professional mascot. The design lacked any real attention to detail, and it did not accurately depict a buffalo in any way. It felt like an afterthought rather than a well-thought-out representation of the university. I would have loved to see a more engaging and creative mascot to boost school spirit.
3. Mark - 1.5 stars - The CU buffalo mascot was a complete disappointment. It had no personality or enthusiasm, making it difficult for anyone to get excited about it. The movements and interactions with the crowd were awkward and forced. It seemed like the person inside the costume had no idea how to effectively engage with the audience. It was a wasted opportunity to create a memorable and impactful mascot for the university.
4. Emily - 2 stars - The CU buffalo mascot lacked any sort of charm or charisma. It was simply a person in a buffalo costume, without any unique traits or characteristics to make it stand out. The costume itself looked cheap and poorly made, which added to the disappointment. Overall, the mascot felt like an afterthought rather than a well-considered symbol of school spirit. It definitely needs improvement.