The LSU Tiger Team Mascot, also known as Mike the Tiger, is one of the most beloved symbols of Louisiana State University. Mike is not only a fierce and majestic representation of the university, but also a live Bengal tiger who resides in his own habitat on campus. He serves as a source of pride and a rallying point for students, alumni, and fans alike. Mike is more than just a mascot; he is a living embodiment of the university's spirit and values. He represents strength, courage, and determination, all qualities that the LSU community strives to embody. The selection process for each Mike is carefully considered, with only the most exceptional tigers chosen to become the face of the university.
Legend has it that less than a month after his arrival at LSU, Mike II died of pneumonia at only eight months of age. Reportedly, Mike II was then secretly buried under a willow tree along the Mississippi River by newly appointed athletic director Jim Corbett, campus police chief C. R. “Dick” Anderson, and LSU Athletic Department business manager Jack Gilmore.
Reportedly, Mike II was then secretly buried under a willow tree along the Mississippi River by newly appointed athletic director Jim Corbett, campus police chief C. On August 4,1956, the LSU Board of Supervisors passed a resolution stating that caretaker salaries and maintenance costs for the new tiger would come equally from student fees and the Athletic Department.
The selection process for each Mike is carefully considered, with only the most exceptional tigers chosen to become the face of the university. Mike's presence on campus is a constant reminder of the university's commitment to excellence and its rich history. He has become a symbol of traditions and memories for generations of students and alumni, with many finding solace and inspiration in his majestic presence.
HISTORY OF MIKE THE TIGER
In 1934, Athletic Department trainer Chellis “Mike” Chambers, Athletic Director T. P. Heard, Swimming Pool Manager and Intramural Swimming Coach William G. “Hickey” Higginbotham, and LSU law student Ed Laborde decided to bring a real tiger to LSU, then known as the “Ole War Skule.”
They raised $750, collecting 25 cents from each student, and purchased a two-hundred pound, one-year-old tiger from the Little Rock Zoo. The cub was born on October 10, 1935, and was originally named Sheik. His name was changed in honor of Chambers, the man most responsible for bringing him to LSU. Interestingly, Mike I must have remembered his original name because even years later Hickey Higginbotham could get him to roar just by calling Sheik.
Early in the morning on Wednesday, October 21, 1936, onlookers lined Highland Road, awaiting the entourage arriving from the train station. LSU students staged a campus strike equal to none to welcome their new tiger mascot to campus. Mike I would assume his duties only three days after arriving on campus. He would reign at LSU for nearly twenty years, traveling with the team and serving as the LSU mascot. Mike I died on Friday, June 29, 1956 of complications associated with kidney disease. He was twenty years and eight months old at his death. He created a legacy in which Mike the Tiger has come to symbolize the heart and soul of LSU athletics.
Following Mike’s death, a fund was established to perpetuate his memory by mounting his pelt in a lifelike manner and displaying him at the university’s Louisiana Museum of Natural History, where it remains to this day.
From his iconic eye makeup to his powerful roar, the LSU Tiger Team Mascot is a true icon of school spirit and pride. While Mike is undoubtedly a beloved figure, it is important to remember that he is also a living animal. LSU takes great care to ensure his well-being and provide him with a comfortable and enriching environment. His habitat is designed to mimic his natural surroundings and allow him to live a fulfilling life, while also providing opportunities for educational experiences for the campus community. In conclusion, the LSU Tiger Team Mascot, Mike the Tiger, is not just a mascot but a symbol of strength, courage, and determination. He represents the pride and spirit of the LSU community and serves as a reminder of the university's commitment to excellence. While he is a beloved figure, it is important to remember that he is also a living animal, and LSU takes great care to ensure his well-being. Mike is a true icon of school spirit and pride at LSU..
Reviews for "From Student to Mascot: The Journey of the LSU Tiger Team"
1. John - 1 star - The LSU tiger team mascot was a huge disappointment. The costume looked cheap and poorly made, and the person wearing it didn't even try to interact with the crowd or show any enthusiasm. It felt like they were just going through the motions with no real passion for the role. Overall, it was a lackluster experience that left me feeling underwhelmed.
2. Sarah - 2 stars - I was really excited to see the LSU tiger team mascot in action, but it fell short of my expectations. The person inside the costume barely moved or engaged with the crowd. They didn't even attempt any tricks or stunts to entertain the audience. It felt like they were just there to take pictures and then disappear. I was hoping for a more energetic and interactive mascot experience.
3. Mike - 2 stars - While the LSU tiger team mascot had potential, it didn't deliver. The costume looked outdated and the person wearing it seemed disinterested and unenthusiastic. They didn't interact with the crowd or create any excitement. I expected a mascot to be lively and engaging, but it felt more like they were going through the motions. Overall, it was a lackluster performance that left me unimpressed.
4. Emily - 1 star - The LSU tiger team mascot was a major letdown. The costume was outdated and looked worn out. The person inside barely moved or interacted with the crowd. There was no sense of energy or enthusiasm. It was supposed to be a fun experience, but instead, it was boring and forgettable. I expected more from such a well-known mascot.
5. David - 1 star - The LSU tiger team mascot was a total disappointment. The costume was shabby and appeared to be in need of repair. The person inside didn't put any effort into their movements or interactions with the crowd. It felt like they were just going through the motions without any passion. I left the event feeling uninspired and underwhelmed.