The Atlanta Braves Mascots: Chief Noc-A-Homa The Atlanta Braves, a professional baseball team based in Atlanta, Georgia, have a rich history and tradition that includes the use of mascots to entertain fans and create a lively game atmosphere. Chief Noc-A-Homa is one of the most significant and iconic mascots associated with the Braves. Chief Noc-A-Homa, portrayed by Levi Walker, first appeared in 1966 when the Braves moved to Atlanta from Milwaukee. He represented the Native American heritage, paying tribute to the Braves' name and their ties to Native American culture. The name "Noc-A-Homa" itself is a play on the phrase "knock a home run," reflecting the mascot's association with the team's success. Chief Noc-A-Homa became a beloved figure among Braves fans, known for his energetic dance moves and lively interactions with the crowd.
Chief Noc-A-Homa became a beloved figure among Braves fans, known for his energetic dance moves and lively interactions with the crowd. He would often perform during games, entertaining fans with his vibrant and spirited presence. His antics and performances helped create a fun and engaging experience for all those in attendance.
Chief Noc-A-Homa (Atlanta Braves)
Chief Noc-A-Homa was the original mascot of the Milwaukee and Atlanta Braves from the 1950s until 1986. The name was used for the "screaming Indian" sleeve patch worn on Braves jerseys. From at least the early 1960s, while still in Milwaukee County Stadium, until the early 1980s at Atlanta's Fulton County Stadium, this mascot "lived" in a teepee in an unoccupied section of the bleacher seats.
The name was intended to be a playful variation of "Knock a Homer." The mascot's job was to exit his teepee and perform a dance whenever a Braves player hit a home run.
In the late 1970s, when the previously mediocre Braves became contenders again, a peculiar superstition arose. When football season approached and the portable bleachers needed to be opened up for the Atlanta Falcons, the teepee was typically removed, and at that point, the Braves would typically start to lose. Superstitious fans claimed that disrupting Noc-A-Homa's home was the cause of their downturn, rather than the team just not having enough depth to sustain first place for the season. After this happened several years in a row, though, the story began to gain some currency. The rumor reached its height in 1982, when the Braves were in first place with a seemingly insurmountable lead. Needing additional seating for sellouts, the Braves removed the teepee and sold tickets for the seats normally supporting it. The Braves promptly lost 19 of their next 21 games and fell to second place. When Braves management put the teepee back in place, the Braves went back to first place and ultimately won the Western division that year.
Late in Noc-A-Homa's duration, Hopewell, Virginia native Kimberly Ann Calos was introduced as "Princess Win-A-Lotta"
The best-known Noc-A-Homa was Levi Walker, Jr., an Ottawa native and an Odawa Indian. In 1986, Walker and the Braves mutually agreed to end their relationship due to disagreements about pay and missed dates. Walker petitioned the club to revive his role during the Braves' 1991 pennant run, but the Braves' management declined. During the late 1970s, the Braves also had a green mascot called Bleacher Creature.
Noc-a-Homa was eventually replaced as the mascot by the characters Homer and Rally. This has not, however, circumvented the introduction of other Native American-inspired traditions for Braves fans, such as the "Tomahawk Chop," adapted with the arrival of Florida State University multi-sport star Deion Sanders from Florida State's popular war chant.
The Simpsons referenced Noc-a-Homa in "I, (Annoyed Grunt)-Bot," when Homer competes as battle robot named "Chief Knock-a Homer."
Atlanta-based band Black Lips wrote a song titled "Noc-A-Homa" for their 2011 album Arabia Mountain. Guitarist Cole Alexander said of the song, ""The guy who acted as the mascot was a real Native American and he used to do prayer dances on the pitcher's mound. He was just a nice guy who rooted for the team."
When it was revealed that Chief Noc-A-Homa would appear on the Braves 2013 batting practice caps, it drew criticism, stating that the logo is offensive against Native Americans.
However, over time, concerns were raised about the mascot's portrayal of Native American culture. Many viewed Chief Noc-A-Homa as a stereotypical representation that perpetuated harmful stereotypes and offensive caricatures. As a result, pressure mounted on the Braves organization to retire the mascot or make significant changes. In response to these concerns, the Braves officially retired Chief Noc-A-Homa in the early 1980s. The team made efforts to rebrand and reimagine their image, opting for a more inclusive and respectful approach. They moved away from Native American imagery and redesigned their logo and uniforms to focus on other aspects of Braves' identity. While Chief Noc-A-Homa is no longer an active mascot for the Atlanta Braves, his legacy remains a significant part of the team's history. The retired mascot serves as a reminder of the evolving perspectives on representation and cultural sensitivity in sports. The Braves organization, like many others, has continued to strive for better inclusivity and respect for all cultures. In conclusion, Chief Noc-A-Homa played a significant role as the mascot for the Atlanta Braves, representing Native American heritage and entertaining fans for years. Although retired due to concerns about cultural appropriation, his legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of promoting inclusivity and respect in sports and society as a whole..
Reviews for "The Braves Mascot Hall of Fame: Chief Noc-A-Homa's Induction"
1. Sally - 1 star
I am extremely disappointed with the Atlanta Braves mascot, Chief Boc A Hona. Not only is this mascot offensive, but it also perpetuates harmful stereotypes. The mascot's portrayal of a Native American is disrespectful and completely out of touch with modern society. It is offensive to the Native American community and sends a message that their culture and traditions can be reduced to a caricature for entertainment purposes. I urge the Atlanta Braves organization to reconsider their choice of mascot and find a more inclusive and respectful representation for their team.
2. John - 2 stars
As a long-time Atlanta Braves fan, I was not impressed with Chief Boc A Hona, their mascot. The mascot is lacking in creativity and originality. It feels like a cheap attempt at cultural appropriation without any understanding or respect for the culture it supposedly represents. The costume design is outdated, and the overall execution of the mascot is underwhelming. I believe the team could invest in a more engaging and exciting mascot that appeals to fans of all ages and backgrounds.
3. Sarah - 1 star
Chief Boc A Hona, the mascot of the Atlanta Braves, is offensive and insensitive. It is disappointing to see a sports team continue to use racially insensitive mascots in this day and age. The portrayal of a Native American chief is a clear example of cultural appropriation and reinforces harmful stereotypes. This mascot not only lacks creativity but also alienates a significant portion of the fanbase. I hope that the Atlanta Braves organization will listen to their fans and make a change by retiring this offensive mascot.