We already HAVE Two Mascots?!

This photo may seem to be evidence that we already have two mascots, but in fact, it demonstrates that in order to be a forward-thinking university, we need to give attention to our Rocky the Rocket heritage.

On the left is "Rocket Man," also known as Rocky the Rocket Man, which replaced the long-standing traditional rocket costume in 1998. The Rocket Man design was selected by committee from an array of contest entries. Then-Collegian cartoonist Carlos (now Charlos) Gary, a finalist
in the contest, created a far more fierce Rocky the Rocket Man design which obviously did not pass muster. Other finalist included Toledoan Pete Hoffman, most famous for a stint drawing the comic,
Steve Roper.

On the right is what the UT Athletic Department has called "Inflatable Rocky." I recall that the first time he took the field, students jeered, mocked, harranged, and otherwise made their disdain for this characterization of Rocky known. (I'll take a trip into the archives to verify these news stories). By the next game, the Rocket Man was back, and the inflatable hero was demoted/promoted to Kids Club events.

Yes,there are two mascots here. But do these mascots truly do justice to the image of a rocket? Would we at the university use this odd couple as examples of e-portfolio work, as BGSU does with Freddie and Freida? (Click on that link and take a look at how well represented BGSU is with the falcon pair. Then, use your imagination and replace them with Rocket Man and Inflatable Rocky. I rest my case).

I think it is time we demand more. More from Rocky--let's toughen him up, give him more power--and MORE mascots...We need a second mascot, not an inflatable punching bag that won't even attract the Barney-set.