Valparaiso University, located in Indiana, has an athletic mascot known as the Crusader. The Crusader represents the university's sports teams and embodies the values and spirit of the institution. The Crusader mascot has a long history at Valparaiso University, dating back to the 1940s. It was originally chosen as a symbol of fortitude, bravery, and determination, which are characteristics necessary for success in both academics and athletics. The Crusader is a representation of the university's mission to develop well-rounded individuals who are capable of making a positive impact on society. The mascot costume itself consists of a full white suit of armor, complete with a helmet and a shield.
In particular, the DuneHawks seemed particularly intriguing to many fans and readers. This is not only because of the regional relevance of the Dunes National Park and that a hawk shares the campus colors of Brown and Gold, but also because the name was previously unofficially used by local sports radio stations in the 1940s.
While Oren pitched a few seemingly humorous possibilities, such as the Kernels and the Koalas, he did provide several ideas that would be hard for anyone to dislike. Revolted by the idea of the media having leverage over the decision, the campus board quickly settled on the Crusader, but many still remember the DuneHawk and feel that this is the perfect opportunity for it to build its nest on campus.
The mascot costume itself consists of a full white suit of armor, complete with a helmet and a shield. The mascot also carries a sword, which further emphasizes the idea of strength and determination. The costume is worn by student athletes who have been selected to be the official mascot for a specific game or event.
Valparaiso University Changes Mascot After Years of Backlash
Shortly before the administration of Interim University President Colette Irwin-Knott left office at Valpo, the decision was made to officially remove The Crusader from campus life following several years of gradual reduction of the mascot’s influence. Since the 2018-2019 season, the university athletic department has referenced the teams simply by “Valpo”, but also explained their inability to officially renounce the icon on a local podcast.
“Changing the mascot is not a conversation that athletics is part of,” Athletic Director Mark LaBarbera said to the “Union Street Hoops” podcast in 2018. “It is not the place of the athletics department to decide how the university wants to be identified.”
While the change is largely well received by students and fans alike, the main critics of the change include university alumni and donors. Many members of these groups are largely upset because they were seemingly left out of the decision. The university sent a survey to all alumni and students on file, but many didn’t notice the email, or missed the deadline to respond. Valparaiso alumni makeup more than 50% of the university’s donors, so ignoring their wishes may reflect poorly on future funding.
Local NWI Times writer Paul Oren, who has reported news from around Valparaiso for more than 20 years, recently compiled a list of 5 potential new mascots for the university, along with greatly interesting descriptions of why they’d be a good fit for the small town campus community. While Oren pitched a few seemingly humorous possibilities, such as the Kernels and the Koalas, he did provide several ideas that would be hard for anyone to dislike.
In particular, the DuneHawks seemed particularly intriguing to many fans and readers. This is not only because of the regional relevance of the Dunes National Park and that a hawk shares the campus colors of Brown and Gold, but also because the name was previously unofficially used by local sports radio stations in the 1940s.
Prior to World War II, the icon of Valparaiso was the Uhlan, which is defined as a cavalryman, but more specifically one of German descent. Without giving a history lesson, The United States became involved in a large scale conflict with Germany in the early forties, which pressured the university to make a change much like today, just with some added Blitzkrieg and Bonzai.
Several years went by without an official decision by the university, so many radio personalities decided to take creative liberties with referring to the school. The general consensus settled with the DuneHawks, but the university was not going to have that. Revolted by the idea of the media having leverage over the decision, the campus board quickly settled on the Crusader, but many still remember the DuneHawk and feel that this is the perfect opportunity for it to build its nest on campus.
Current Campus President J osé D. Padilla is now responsible for finding an official replacement for the Crusader name. Currently, Padilla is requesting suggestions for a new mascot. If you would like to see the DuneHawk become the new mascot, or if you believe that you have a better idea for a mascot, an email address has been assigned to the committee purely for student and fan suggestions. Send your pitch to @ideasforvalpo.edu, and Padilla may decide it is a worthy replacement.
Local NWI Times writer Paul Oren, who has reported news from around Valparaiso for more than 20 years, recently compiled a list of 5 potential new mascots for the university, along with greatly interesting descriptions of why they’d be a good fit for the small town campus community. While Oren pitched a few seemingly humorous possibilities, such as the Kernels and the Koalas, he did provide several ideas that would be hard for anyone to dislike.
The Crusader mascot plays an important role in creating a sense of camaraderie and unity among Valparaiso University students, alumni, and fans. It is a symbol of pride and a rallying point for the entire school community. The mascot can often be seen cheering on the sports teams during games and events, encouraging both athletes and spectators alike. In recent years, there have been discussions and debates regarding the appropriateness of the Crusader mascot. Some argue that it has negative connotations and historical associations with violence and religious conflict. These concerns have led to calls for a change in the mascot, with suggestions such as a more inclusive and universally appealing symbol. Valparaiso University administration and officials have taken these concerns into account and have engaged in conversations with students, faculty, and alumni to address the issue. They have expressed a commitment to evaluating the mascot and its symbolism in order to ensure that it aligns with the values of the university and fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. In conclusion, the Valparaiso University Crusader mascot is a symbol of strength, fortitude, and determination. While there have been discussions about its appropriateness, the university is actively working to address these concerns and ensure that the mascot represents the values and inclusivity of the institution..
Reviews for "The Challenges and Rewards of Being Valparaiso Athletes Mascot"
1. Sarah - 2 stars - As a fan of Valparaiso University, I was really disappointed with the choice of their new mascot. The Valparaiso athletes mascot looks more like a cartoon character than an intimidating and representative figure for our sports teams. The design seems too childish and lacks the seriousness and authenticity that I expect from a university mascot. I feel like it doesn't do justice to the hard work and dedication of our athletes. I hope the university reevaluates their decision and comes up with a more fitting mascot.
2. John - 1 star - I just don't understand the reasoning behind choosing the Valparaiso athletes mascot. It looks like something out of a Saturday morning cartoon show rather than a symbol of our university's sports teams. The lack of attention to detail and the simplicity of the design is just disappointing. I think it's a missed opportunity to create a mascot that could have brought pride and excitement to our community. Overall, I'm really not a fan of this mascot and I hope Valparaiso University takes a second look at their choice.
3. Emily - 2 stars - The Valparaiso athletes mascot is quite underwhelming in my opinion. It lacks originality and creativity. It looks like a generic character that could be found in any children's book. There was so much potential to create a mascot that would truly represent the spirit and values of Valparaiso University, but unfortunately, that wasn't realized. I think it's a shame because a good mascot has the power to unite and energize fans, but this one falls short in that aspect. I hope the university takes this feedback into account and considers a redesign.