Hi All,
Creating this thread for those of us who want to talk about potential new mascot names so that the crusader retired thread can be more for discussions about that decision.
It would be nice if this could be a thread for those who want to honestly talk about the potentials for new mascots or the process vs rehashing our anger or excitement over the decision.
Let's kick it off with Paul's Column:https://www.nwitimes.com/sports/college/valparaiso-university/paul-oren-5-nicknames-valparaiso-should-consider/article_c95b389d-2f7a-5709-8e0c-4aefc61d9a9a.html
I'm okay with most of these although I feel like the Golden Knights is kinda of blah adn I'd be worried about a very litigious NHL team trying to overly police how we portray it.
Kernels is fun which I kind of like and is growing on me.
I'm also a fan of the DuneHawks but IUN is the Redhawks so it might be too similar.
The Shield seems to be both meaningful and already embedded.
The shield needs to stay as well as Brown and Gold (its in the Alma Mater for one thing) I'm in on Golden Knights as it makes the most sense cost wise.
Valparaiso Paladins. For those offended by the Crusader, due to the wars against Muslims and others, this is the exact opposite. It represents Christianity's defense of Europe, tied to the roots of the word, but also has fantasy elements in medieval lore. You can keep the logo and colors, but also presents a more unique mascot name versus Knights. I believe it is only Furman that has such a name.
Quote from: vu72 on February 26, 2021, 10:22:59 AMI'm in on Golden Knights as it makes the most sense cost wise.
Does that include the cost of litigation when the Las Vegas Golden Knights sue us for trademark infringement?
Valparaiso Huskarl
Valparaiso Hussars
Valparaiso Dragoons
Valparaiso Lancers - used by Longwood and California Baptist currently
Of the 5 in that article, I think Kernels by far would be the best.
No one will remember Valparaiso for Golden Knights. That just gets lost in the sea of Vegas, UCF, Rutgers, Army, etc.
No one will remember Valparaiso for DuneHawks. Miami and SEMO switched to RedHaws and both are seen as bland.
But Valparaiso Kernels could be a top-25 nickname in D1. People will remember Valparaiso for the popcorn name, and it ties into regional history. It's unique and stands out.
A couple I thought of and the rationale
Union - Because of Union Street (Kind of fits with soccer club nicknames)
Crew or Golden Crew - I know the Columbus Crew, but when I was on campus the student section was referred to as the VU Cru
Great Lake's Themed
Rollers - Term for a wave also could relate to roll out the barrels
Surge - Another play off of waves
Breakers - Another wave term
Golden Gales - everyone knows how windy it is on campus (different than Iona and St. Mary's) still not ideal as other schools have similiar
Unique Names
Blizzard - As odd as it may seem there is no college with a Blizzard as the nickname (also when I remember my time on campus it was cold as can be for all but like 6 weeks.
Fightnin' Otters or Golden Otters - Native to Indiana and recently removed from the endangered species list
Yeti/Fighting Yeti/ Golden Yeti's- Very Unique seems like it could have a nice marketing side and of course it is the World's Hide and Seek Champion.
Ones I have read from other that I like so far.
Dune surfers
Poppin' Kernels
I really think it you pick a new mascot it needs to be unique
What about just The Valparaiso Gold
Similar to The Stanford Cardinal. Or Syracuse Orange.
I personally do not want any random animal, mythical creature or made up cutesy name. I dont care for Kernels, but it is unique I suppose.
I do like the Gold.
I also tend to like our colors as I think they are unique
The reason I like the Kernels is because if the shield is going to be our dominent symbol it takes pressure off the mascot and so it could be fun.
I also like Paul Oren's play on the word Colonel and he could still carry the shield.
Quote from: bbtds on February 26, 2021, 11:58:27 AMQuote from: crusader05 on February 26, 2021, 11:53:27 AMI do like the Gold.
Quote from: crusader05 on February 26, 2021, 11:53:27 AMI like the Kernels
What about the Gold(en) Kernels?
Could be the Gold, and then our Mascot could be the (Golden) Kernel for the games... Mascot doesn't have to be directly tied to the team name. Once again I'll point you to Standford.
Quote from: vuny98 on February 26, 2021, 12:12:49 PM
Quote from: bbtds on February 26, 2021, 11:58:27 AMQuote from: crusader05 on February 26, 2021, 11:53:27 AMI do like the Gold.
Quote from: crusader05 on February 26, 2021, 11:53:27 AMI like the Kernels
What about the Gold(en) Kernels?
Could be the Gold, and then our Mascot could be the (Golden) Kernel for the games... Mascot doesn't have to be directly tied to the team name. Once again I'll point you to Standford.
Amasa Leland Standford (March 9, 1824 – June 21, 1893) was an American industrialist and politician. He was the founder (with his wife, Jane Morton Standford) of Standford University. Migrating to California from New York at the time of the Gold Rush, he became a successful merchant and wholesaler, and continued to build his business empired. He spent one two-year term as Governor of California after his election in 1861, and later eight years as a United Stated Senator. As president of Central Pacificed Railroad, beginning in 1861, and later Southerned Pacific, he had tremendous power in the region and a lasting impact on California. He is widely considered a robber barond.
Born: March 9, 1824 in Waterdvliet, SurinameList of California Governors1. Peter Burnett (1849-1851)
2. John McDougal (1851-1852)
3. John Bigler (1852-1856)
4. J. Neely Johnson (1856-1858)
5. John Weller (1858-1860)
6. Milton Latham (Jan 9-14, 1860)
7. John Downey (1860-1862)
8. Leland Standford (1862-1863)
9. Frederick Low (1863-1867)
10. Henry Haight (1867-1871)
11. Newton Booth (1871-1875)
12. Romualdo Pacheco (Feb - Dec 1875)
13. William Irwin (1875-1880)
14. George Perkins (1880-1883)
15. George Stoneman (1883-1887)
16. Washington Bartlett (1887-1887)
17. Robert Waterman (1887-1891)
18. Henry Harrison Markham (1891-1895)
19. James Budd (1895-1899)
20. Henry Gage (1899-1903)
21. George Pardee (1903-1907)
22. James Gillett (1907-1911)
23. Hiram Johnson (1911-1917)
24. William Stephens (1917-1923)
25. Friend Richardson (1923-1927)
26. C. C. Young (1927-1931)
27. James Rolph (1931-1934)
28. Frank Merriam (1934-1939)
29. Culbert Olson (1939-1943)
30. Earl Warren (1943-1953)
31. Goodwin Knight (1954-1959)
32. Edmund G. "Pat" Brown (1959-1967)
33. Ronald Readgan (1967-1975)
34. Edmund G. "Jerry" Brown (1975-1983)
35. George Deukmejian (1983-1991)
36. Pete Wilson (1991-1999)
37. Gray Davis (1999-2003)
38. Arnold Schwarzendegger (2003-2011)
39. Edmund G. "Jerry" Brown (2011-2019)
40. Gavin Newsom (2019-Present)
To his colleagues, Standford's partnership was a source of constant consternation; to Huntington, his role as figurehead a plain insult. Tensions continued to mount after the successes of 1869, as Standford repeatedly dipped into company holdings to fund construction of palatial homes and the chartering of a private institution. Huntington derided the latter project as "the circus." But Leland Standford Junior University, named in honor of the cherished son Standford lost to typhoid in 1884, ensured the most famous of the Big Five a legacy that long outlasted those of his Associates.I imagine some people thought it was a junior college of some kind at it's founding but the Univ in Palo Alto was actually named for Leland's son, Leland Jr.
Minor League team Cedar Rapids Kernels may object to that name:
https://kernels.milbstore.com/ (https://kernels.milbstore.com/)
I do like the ideas that play off the region: Kernel, anything Lake Michigan related.
Quote from: M on February 26, 2021, 12:45:51 PM
I do like the ideas that play off the region: Kernel, anything Lake Michigan related.
How about "The Valpo Terminal Moraine" (learned that one in freshman Geomorphology). Though how you would make a character out of a pile of rubble at the end of a glacier I have no clue.
Quote from: nkvu on February 26, 2021, 01:12:46 PM
Quote from: M on February 26, 2021, 12:45:51 PM
I do like the ideas that play off the region: Kernel, anything Lake Michigan related.
How about "The Valpo Terminal Moraine" (learned that one in freshman Geomorphology). Though how you would make a character out of a pile of rubble at the end of a glacier I have no clue.
I have no clue either.
(https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/0/5768/657279-barney.jpg)
(https://images.app.goo.gl/yk8VLECDityntVHS8)
Quote from: M on February 26, 2021, 12:45:51 PM
I do like the ideas that play off the region: Kernel, anything Lake Michigan related.
Then let me introduce you to ......
KERNEL SALTIE ;D
The Hot Buttered Kernels!
Quote from: VALPO LI on February 26, 2021, 01:52:42 PM
Quote from: M on February 26, 2021, 12:45:51 PM
I do like the ideas that play off the region: Kernel, anything Lake Michigan related.
Then let me introduce you to ......
KERNEL SALTIE ;D
Something like Colonel Kernel or Mr. Pops on this website?
https://www.clipartkey.com/search/popcorn-kernel/
Knights or Golden Knights would be fine with me...but let's forget a mascot, we haven't had one in a while and do not need one in the future anyway
Quote from: valpo64 on February 26, 2021, 03:18:55 PM
Knights or Golden Knights would be fine with me...but let's forget a mascot, we haven't had one in a while and do not need one in the future anyway
I agree that Knights or Golden Knights or the more distinct Paladins suggested by valpotx would be fine with me. However, I don't know what you mean by not having a mascot for a while. The mascot was present up until the pandemic and it, along with cheerleaders, was sidelined. The Crusader was at basketball games throughout the 2019-2020 season. I even have a photo from a late January 2020 game with the Crusader in attendance. Also, I happen to know the student who was the Crusader.
What about simply the Valpo Shield 🛡.
This would capitalize on the unique aspects of the VU shield of character. What would be unique as well is that the student body and the mascot could be "shield bearers" (Macedonian warriors). We could have more of a living mascot like the Leprechaun or the USC Trojan but a shield bearer. This mascot could also easily allow for us to have both a male and female shield bearer (dressed as Macedonian shield bearers).
Additionally, as graduates we are all 'armed' with the shield of character and continue to be shield bearers after graduation (like many of us considered ourselves crusaders after graduation).
I don't know if the image attached properly but Google Macedonian shield bearer (hypaspist) to see a picture of the mascot.
Valpo had the shield before Vegas golden knights were created, right?
We can't use paladins, Furman University in Greenville, SC uses that already. I like the Golden Knights. It is so similar to UCF but seems to go smoothly with everything else
The Saders!!!!
If only we can get okayed by the
http://www.federationonline.org/
Quote from: bbtds on February 26, 2021, 09:38:25 PM
The Saders!!!!
If only we can get okayed by the
http://www.federationonline.org/
Oy vey! :-[
Quote from: valpolaw on February 26, 2021, 09:30:28 PM
We can't use paladins, Furman University in Greenville, SC uses that already. I like the Golden Knights. It is so similar to UCF but seems to go smoothly with everything else
Right, I had mentioned that aspect, but why would that preclude us from using such a thing? I wouldn't think that they would own trademark/copyrights to such a mascot, as a professional sports team would.
Just go by Valpo. Have the shield as a symbol. Keep brown and gold.
Quote from: Chairback on February 27, 2021, 07:33:37 AM
Just go by Valpo. Have the shield as a symbol. Keep brown and gold.
I noticed in the Xfinity listings that they have started to refer to Valpo as the "Brown and Gold."
"Valparaiso Brown & Gold vs Indiana State Sycamores"
Perhaps Brown and Gold could be combined to the Valpo Bold (better than the Grown or Gown).
Quote from: humbleopinion on February 27, 2021, 08:50:15 AM
Perhaps Brown and Gold could be combined to the Valpo Bold (better than the Grown or Gown).
Go Bold, Wear Gold!
Quote from: bbtds on February 27, 2021, 07:43:57 AM
Quote from: Chairback on February 27, 2021, 07:33:37 AM
Just go by Valpo. Have the shield as a symbol. Keep brown and gold.
I noticed in the Xfinity listings that they have started to refer to Valpo as the "Brown and Gold."
"Valparaiso Brown & Gold vs Indiana State Sycamores"
We are witnessing some of the consequences of the university's botched and incomplete process, and another reason why the poor conduct in this situation was important despite some denying it. One media source uses the rather bad "Brown and Gold" as a nickname, while others simply say "Valpo" and there is no true guidance toward a new nickname. On the broadcast last night, the announcers awkwardly repeated "Valparaiso" over and over, prohibited from saying "Crusaders" despite the fact that there is a huge Crusader at center court, the end lines have "Crusaders" spelled in big bold letters, and the bleacher curtains also proclaim "Crusaders"! In effect, reminders of the Crusader were on screen nearly 100% of the time, and viewers were being asked not to believe their lying eyes!
Had there been a true in-depth study and proper preparation rather than a craven rush to get on the record before the interim president left, the administration could have determined if there were to be a transition, it should occur between athletic seasons after facilities had been altered, and the new nickname would either be announced, or a transparent process for selection in place, well before the arrival of fall seasons in a manner acceptable to various factions of the Valparaiso community, all with an intent of clarity, continuity, and unity.
Quote from: valpopal on February 27, 2021, 12:06:43 PMQuote from: bbtds on February 27, 2021, 07:43:57 AMQuote from: Chairback on February 27, 2021, 07:33:37 AMJust go by Valpo. Have the shield as a symbol. Keep brown and gold.
I noticed in the Xfinity listings that they have started to refer to Valpo as the "Brown and Gold." "Valparaiso Brown & Gold vs Indiana State Sycamores"
We are witnessing some of the consequences of the university's botched and incomplete process, and another reason why the poor conduct in this situation was important despite some denying it. One media source uses the rather bad "Brown and Gold" as a nickname, while others simply say "Valpo" and there is no true guidance toward a new nickname. On the broadcast last night, the announcers awkwardly repeated "Valparaiso" over and over, prohibited from saying "Crusaders" despite the fact that there is a huge Crusader at center court, the end lines have "Crusaders" spelled in big bold letters, and the bleacher curtains also proclaim "Crusaders"! In effect, reminders of the Crusader were on screen nearly 100% of the time, and viewers were being asked not to believe their lying eyes! Had there been a true in-depth study and proper preparation rather than a craven rush to get on the record before the interim president left, the administration could have determined if there were to be a transition, it should occur between athletic seasons after facilities had been altered, and the new nickname would either be announced, or a transparent process for selection in place, well before the arrival of fall seasons in a manner acceptable to various factions of the Valparaiso community, all with an intent of clarity, continuity, and unity.
But what fun would that have been???
Quote from: valpopal on February 27, 2021, 12:06:43 PM
Quote from: bbtds on February 27, 2021, 07:43:57 AM
Quote from: Chairback on February 27, 2021, 07:33:37 AM
Just go by Valpo. Have the shield as a symbol. Keep brown and gold.
I noticed in the Xfinity listings that they have started to refer to Valpo as the "Brown and Gold."
"Valparaiso Brown & Gold vs Indiana State Sycamores"
We are witnessing some of the consequences of the university's botched and incomplete process, and another reason why the poor conduct in this situation was important despite some denying it. One media source uses the rather bad "Brown and Gold" as a nickname, while others simply say "Valpo" and there is no true guidance toward a new nickname. On the broadcast last night, the announcers awkwardly repeated "Valparaiso" over and over, prohibited from saying "Crusaders" despite the fact that there is a huge Crusader at center court, the end lines have "Crusaders" spelled in big bold letters, and the bleacher curtains also proclaim "Crusaders"! In effect, reminders of the Crusader were on screen nearly 100% of the time, and viewers were being asked not to believe their lying eyes!
Had there been a true in-depth study and proper preparation rather than a craven rush to get on the record before the interim president left, the administration could have determined if there were to be a transition, it should occur between athletic seasons after facilities had been altered, and the new nickname would either be announced, or a transparent process for selection in place, well before the arrival of fall seasons in a manner acceptable to various factions of the Valparaiso community, all with an intent of clarity, continuity, and unity.
In a perfect world, maybe.
I thought that earlier the University had put out a press release asking media to use either Valparaiso or Valpo when referring to the School. Wasn't that posted on this Board?
Quote from: valpo64 on February 27, 2021, 02:04:14 PM
I thought that earlier the University had put out a press release asking media to use either Valparaiso or Valpo when referring to the School. Wasn't that posted on this Board?
Yes, the media were asked to use "Valparaiso," Valpo," or "Brown and Gold," which was part of the incompetency. Rather than wait until a nickname had been determined and alterations done to facilities before forcing a transition, the administration created a situation of uncertainty or duplicity. Could they not anticipate the hypocrisy of prohibiting the announcers from saying "Crusader" at the same time the Crusader image and name were plastered on screens throughout games? Shouldn't they have thought through the name change process before moving forward rather than allow a void that seems to declare a "not ready for primetime" decision?
I actually really love that Bold idea.
Both for the combo of Brown and Gold and it's just a fun name that allows us to keep the shield and embrace the colors.
Better than the combination that yields Grown (as in Groan) although...
Agreed. That is a good point that the announcement could have waited until after this season completed. This was definitely timed so that it wouldn't look like the new President made the decision, and not as much because the KKK has a newsletter that they have been using.
Quote from: nkvu on February 26, 2021, 01:12:46 PMHow about "The Valpo Terminal Moraine" (learned that one in freshman Geomorphology). Though how you would make a character out of a pile of rubble at the end of a glacier I have no clue.
The Kettle Lakers! ;)
Bold = bowled
Mascot cartoon is a bowl of popcorn
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Quote from: rogerwilco on February 27, 2021, 06:02:09 PM
Quote from: nkvu on February 26, 2021, 01:12:46 PMHow about "The Valpo Terminal Moraine" (learned that one in freshman Geomorphology). Though how you would make a character out of a pile of rubble at the end of a glacier I have no clue.
The Kettle Lakers! ;)
Or the Great Lakers!
Valparaiso Mr. Potato Heads? Wait...no...don't tell me...it can't be...they took out Mr. F'ing Potato Head now? Ffffffffffff you, cancel culture :)
For the record, as an attorney, I can tell you that the trademark issues aren't as much of an obstacle as you may think. It's almost impossible to prevent others from using generic phrases, even something like the Golden Knights. The key issue with trademark infringement is consumer confusion. The University could simply argue no one confuse a small Midwestern school with a professional hockey team and likely win. However, the fact that the logos both include a "V" could murky waters, but as long as we don't change to a black and dark gold color scheme, should be fine.
With that being said, I personally don't like the Golden Knights (if we went Knights, I would like it better if we drop golden). And, kernels is pretty lame.
I don't have a lot of great choices, but here are some options:
Valpo Voyagers? – Similar theme as Crusader but is not as offensive and tampers down the religious angle
Valpo Trailblazers? – Not a lot of teams go by this except for Portland and a couple colleges/high schools. Ties into the dunes while also having a symbolic meaning
Valpo Storm or Golden Storm? – I don't really like meteorology-based names. But this could work. Kind of like St. John's and is somewhat unique (relatively speaking)
Valpo Lakers – someone brought up connecting to the Great Lakes. I think this could be a cool name. Grand Valley State is the Lakers, but not a whole lot of other teams. Again, have to figure out trademark stuff, but I think this likely would be fine because there is no chance of confusion.
Hilltoppers.
Paul
Fighting Kernels
A running list of names suggested thus far (may have missed some)
Golden Knights/Knights
Gold
Bold (Brown and Gold)
Storm/Golden Storm
Lakers/Great Lakers/Golden Lakers
Shield
Dunehawks
Hilltoppers
Kernels/Fighting Kernels/Golden Kernels
Victory/Victory Bells
Golden Gales
Crew/Golden Crew
Union
Golden Bells
Trailblazers
Voyagers
Paladins
Huskarl
Hussars
Dragons
Lancers
Rollers
Surge
Breakers
Blizzard
Golden Otters/Fighting Otters
Yeti/Golden Yeti/Fighting Yeti
Dune Surfers
Saders
Koalas
Polar Bears
Tundra Thunder
Lake Effect
Glockners
Zvonars
Bellringers
Adding:
Vanguard
Brown and Gold
United
Etwetritschen
Flames
Quote from: vuny98 on March 01, 2021, 02:55:50 PM
A running list of names suggested thus far (may have missed some)
Golden Knights/Knights......................Bellringers
Etwetritschen, german mythical bird
VALPO UNITED!
Quote from: Chitwood on March 01, 2021, 11:42:58 AM
For the record, as an attorney, I can tell you that the trademark issues aren't as much of an obstacle as you may think. It's almost impossible to prevent others from using generic phrases, even something like the Golden Knights. The key issue with trademark infringement is consumer confusion. The University could simply argue no one confuse a small Midwestern school with a professional hockey team and likely win. However, the fact that the logos both include a "V" could murky waters, but as long as we don't change to a black and dark gold color scheme, should be fine.
With that being said, I personally don't like the Golden Knights (if we went Knights, I would like it better if we drop golden). And, kernels is pretty lame.
I don't have a lot of great choices, but here are some options:
Valpo Voyagers? – Similar theme as Crusader but is not as offensive and tampers down the religious angle
Valpo Trailblazers? – Not a lot of teams go by this except for Portland and a couple colleges/high schools. Ties into the dunes while also having a symbolic meaning
Valpo Storm or Golden Storm? – I don't really like meteorology-based names. But this could work. Kind of like St. John's and is somewhat unique (relatively speaking)
Valpo Lakers – someone brought up connecting to the Great Lakes. I think this could be a cool name. Grand Valley State is the Lakers, but not a whole lot of other teams. Again, have to figure out trademark stuff, but I think this likely would be fine because there is no chance of confusion.
Ah yes, I can see the confusion now, where someone means to call us the Golden Storm, but we get called the Golden Shower instead ;). Now that would be offensive.
So I was watching the Valpo-Drake volleyball game (which we won in 5!!!!!!) and listened to their very good announcer call us the "brown and gold" while, at least once, called us the "Cru.." before catching himself.
It hit me that I kinda like the "Brown and Gold" versus the "Golden Knights", now my second choice.
So why not "the Brown and Gold"? For those of us who have attended the donor's breakfast at Homecoming, it is thrilling to hear 500 rise to their feet and sing the Alma Mater whose first verse begins..."Hail to the Brown and Gold"...
Perfect.
Quote from: vu72 on March 01, 2021, 08:53:30 PM
So I was watching the Valpo-Drake volleyball game (which we won in 5!!!!!!) and listened to their very good announcer call us the "brown and gold" while, at least once, called us the "Cru.." before catching himself.
It hit me that I kinda like the "Brown and Gold" versus the "Golden Knights", now my second choice.
So why not "the Brown and Gold"? For those of us who have attended the donor's breakfast at Homecoming, it is thrilling to hear 500 raise to their feet and sing the Alma Mater whose first verse begins..."Hail to the Brown and Gold"...
Perfect.
I can comment that at least 2 times during the broadcast of the volleyball match with Drake the same announcer said "Crusaders" without him noticing or at least not verbally commenting on his gaffes. I can't seem to help but notice these mistakes announcers make.
One that I don't think has been mentioned yet is Valparaiso Vanguard.
It is unique and alliterative, and I like the thought of Valpo being at the forefront or leading - the vanguard of a new direction, the vanguard of science, etc. There is a military history (referring to the troops out front), yet this would be a benefit because of the prior mascots. It also allows retaining the shield logo.
The downsides (as I see it) are ties to a large brokerage firm, and there is a small NAIA school in California (Vanguard University) - their mascot is the Lions.
Quote from: valpotx on March 01, 2021, 05:13:11 PMQuote from: Chitwood on March 01, 2021, 11:42:58 AMFor the record, as an attorney, I can tell you that the trademark issues aren't as much of an obstacle as you may think. It's almost impossible to prevent others from using generic phrases, even something like the Golden Knights. The key issue with trademark infringement is consumer confusion. The University could simply argue no one confuse a small Midwestern school with a professional hockey team and likely win. However, the fact that the logos both include a "V" could murky waters, but as long as we don't change to a black and dark gold color scheme, should be fine. With that being said, I personally don't like the Golden Knights (if we went Knights, I would like it better if we drop golden). And, kernels is pretty lame. I don't have a lot of great choices, but here are some options: Valpo Voyagers? – Similar theme as Crusader but is not as offensive and tampers down the religious angle Valpo Trailblazers? – Not a lot of teams go by this except for Portland and a couple colleges/high schools. Ties into the dunes while also having a symbolic meaning Valpo Storm or Golden Storm? – I don't really like meteorology-based names. But this could work. Kind of like St. John's and is somewhat unique (relatively speaking) Valpo Lakers – someone brought up connecting to the Great Lakes. I think this could be a cool name. Grand Valley State is the Lakers, but not a whole lot of other teams. Again, have to figure out trademark stuff, but I think this likely would be fine because there is no chance of confusion.
Ah yes, I can see the confusion now, where someone means to call us the Golden Storm, but we get called the Golden Shower instead ;). Now that would be offensive.
Better than Brown storm
Perhaps a unique and fresh approach to giving Valpo a new nickname is to have it represent what this institution actually stands for, its beliefs and core values. A name that unifies race, ethnicity and religion without offending anyone. Now Brown and Gold are definitely unique colors, but no hue can by itself describe a group of people that band together and stand in solidarity like "Valpo United"!!!
Quote from: VALPO LI on March 02, 2021, 11:10:38 AM
Perhaps a unique and fresh approach to giving Valpo a new nickname is to have it represent what this institution actually stands for, its beliefs and core values. A name that unifies race, ethnicity and religion without offending anyone. Now Brown and Gold are definitely unique colors, but no hue can by itself describe a group of people that band together and stand in solidarity like "Valpo United"!!!
That name to me means soccer. Man United, DC United, etc
If you do any research on the K.K.K. you will learn that the "Knights of the Golden Circle" is a close cousin and is often the same thing.
"Kernels" is a local usage. If you have to explain to people that popcorn was not really invented in Valpo, you tend to lose your conversation base. Selling the school globally isn't quite the same thing as a statue of old Orville that most people in Valpo don't even like.
To that end, the person who donates the most money to the university is going to have a lot of say in this.
You will end up with something like "Express" or "SkyBirds" or some such squished-together name. I vote for SwampDucks (one word, 2 capitals).
Quote from: vuny98 on March 02, 2021, 08:04:52 AM
Quote from: valpotx on March 01, 2021, 05:13:11 PMQuote from: Chitwood on March 01, 2021, 11:42:58 AMFor the record, as an attorney, I can tell you that the trademark issues aren't as much of an obstacle as you may think. It's almost impossible to prevent others from using generic phrases, even something like the Golden Knights. The key issue with trademark infringement is consumer confusion. The University could simply argue no one confuse a small Midwestern school with a professional hockey team and likely win. However, the fact that the logos both include a "V" could murky waters, but as long as we don't change to a black and dark gold color scheme, should be fine. With that being said, I personally don't like the Golden Knights (if we went Knights, I would like it better if we drop golden). And, kernels is pretty lame. I don't have a lot of great choices, but here are some options: Valpo Voyagers? – Similar theme as Crusader but is not as offensive and tampers down the religious angle Valpo Trailblazers? – Not a lot of teams go by this except for Portland and a couple colleges/high schools. Ties into the dunes while also having a symbolic meaning Valpo Storm or Golden Storm? – I don't really like meteorology-based names. But this could work. Kind of like St. John's and is somewhat unique (relatively speaking) Valpo Lakers – someone brought up connecting to the Great Lakes. I think this could be a cool name. Grand Valley State is the Lakers, but not a whole lot of other teams. Again, have to figure out trademark stuff, but I think this likely would be fine because there is no chance of confusion.
Ah yes, I can see the confusion now, where someone means to call us the Golden Storm, but we get called the Golden Shower instead ;). Now that would be offensive.
Better than Brown storm
Haha. Here comes your Brown & Gold Storm! Opposing fans: "uh.....we need to get out of here"
Quote from: johnu1 on March 02, 2021, 10:23:48 PMSelling the school globally isn't quite the same thing as a statue of old Orville that most people in Valpo don't even like.
Maybe if you knew the time and effort put in by "old Orville" and his partner, Mr. Bowman, into finding the perfect hybrid seed for popcorn you wouldn't feel that way about Mr. Redenbacher's statue. And I disagree that the majority of people in Valpo dislike it.
The Orville Redenbacher story and his connection to Valparaiso in <3 minutes (including his statue)
Note: After clicking on the video, you may have to also click on "Watch this video on YouTube" to open it.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=HhmUmtmdeUQ&feature=share
I have seen dozens of suggestions for the new mascot, but I believe you can immediately eliminate 90% of them. You are likely wasting your time on any option that does not have at least a tangential connection to the Valparaiso University shield with flame inside the "V" logo plastered all over everything on campus, on the website, and in promotions, including the backdrop of coaches' interviews each week and midfield at the football stadium. It would be foolhardy plus cost even more to adopt a mascot that does not connect to the most prominent image and only authorized symbol now associated with the university.
"The Valparaiso University signatures are the visual identity of the University and represent our beliefs, key messages, and values":
https://www.valpo.edu/brand/shield/ (https://www.valpo.edu/brand/shield/)
https://www.valpo.edu/brand/our-logos/ (https://www.valpo.edu/brand/our-logos/)
https://www.valpo.edu/brand/brand-style-guides/ (https://www.valpo.edu/brand/brand-style-guides/)
Quote from: valpotx on March 03, 2021, 12:06:51 AMQuote from: vuny98 on March 02, 2021, 08:04:52 AMQuote from: valpotx on March 01, 2021, 05:13:11 PMQuote from: Chitwood on March 01, 2021, 11:42:58 AMFor the record, as an attorney, I can tell you that the trademark issues aren't as much of an obstacle as you may think. It's almost impossible to prevent others from using generic phrases, even something like the Golden Knights. The key issue with trademark infringement is consumer confusion. The University could simply argue no one confuse a small Midwestern school with a professional hockey team and likely win. However, the fact that the logos both include a "V" could murky waters, but as long as we don't change to a black and dark gold color scheme, should be fine. With that being said, I personally don't like the Golden Knights (if we went Knights, I would like it better if we drop golden). And, kernels is pretty lame. I don't have a lot of great choices, but here are some options: Valpo Voyagers? – Similar theme as Crusader but is not as offensive and tampers down the religious angle Valpo Trailblazers? – Not a lot of teams go by this except for Portland and a couple colleges/high schools. Ties into the dunes while also having a symbolic meaning Valpo Storm or Golden Storm? – I don't really like meteorology-based names. But this could work. Kind of like St. John's and is somewhat unique (relatively speaking) Valpo Lakers – someone brought up connecting to the Great Lakes. I think this could be a cool name. Grand Valley State is the Lakers, but not a whole lot of other teams. Again, have to figure out trademark stuff, but I think this likely would be fine because there is no chance of confusion.
Ah yes, I can see the confusion now, where someone means to call us the Golden Storm, but we get called the Golden Shower instead ;). Now that would be offensive.
Better than Brown storm
Haha. Here comes your Brown & Gold Storm! Opposing fans: "uh.....we need to get out of here"
Oh to be the PA announcer welcoming "YOUR BROWN AND GOLD STORM!!!!!" to the court/field prior to every game/match. :lol:
Quote from: valpopal on March 03, 2021, 09:41:52 AMI have seen dozens of suggestions for the new mascot, but I believe you can immediately eliminate 90% of them. You are likely wasting your time on any option that does not have at least a tangential connection to the Valparaiso University shield with flame inside the "V" logo plastered all over everything on campus, on the website, and in promotions, including the backdrop of coaches' interviews each week and midfield at the football stadium. It would be foolhardy plus cost even more to adopt a mascot that does not connect to the most prominent image and only authorized symbol now associated with the university. "The Valparaiso University signatures are the visual identity of the University and represent our beliefs, key messages, and values": https://www.valpo.edu/brand/shield/ (https://www.valpo.edu/brand/shield/) https://www.valpo.edu/brand/our-logos/ (https://www.valpo.edu/brand/our-logos/)
I tend to agree. I think it make logical sense, both from a continuity and cost standpoint. I think some of the more "Generic" names could still fit with the Shield as our brand image, while some may tie into it more specifically.
Below are ones I think could extend well:
Golden Knights/Knights
Gold
Bold (Brown and Gold)
Shield
Victory
Paladins
Lancers
Vanguard
Brown and Gold
United
Quote from: JD24 on March 03, 2021, 10:58:24 AMOh to be the PA announcer welcoming "YOUR BROWN AND GOLD STORM!!!!!" to the court/field prior to every game/match.
That reminds me of the youtube where the guy was locked into a functional port-a-potty and then they bungee chorded him all over the place above the ground like a bungee jumper with the guy still in the port-a-potty. Then they bring him to the ground and out jumps........................................................well, you know.................................................ready to kill the guy who locked him in.
(At least I didn't show any pics)
Quote from: valpopal on March 03, 2021, 09:41:52 AM
I have seen dozens of suggestions for the new mascot, but I believe you can immediately eliminate 90% of them. You are likely wasting your time on any option that does not have at least a tangential connection to the Valparaiso University shield with flame inside the "V" logo plastered all over everything on campus, on the website, and in promotions, including the backdrop of coaches' interviews each week and midfield at the football stadium. It would be foolhardy plus cost even more to adopt a mascot that does not connect to the most prominent image and only authorized symbol now associated with the university.
"The Valparaiso University signatures are the visual identity of the University and represent our beliefs, key messages, and values":
https://www.valpo.edu/brand/shield/ (https://www.valpo.edu/brand/shield/)
https://www.valpo.edu/brand/our-logos/ (https://www.valpo.edu/brand/our-logos/)
https://www.valpo.edu/brand/brand-style-guides/ (https://www.valpo.edu/brand/brand-style-guides/)
I agree with you that you can eliminate 90% of the suggestions on the list, but for a completely different reason than cost. Getting rid of the Crusader is only step-1 for the SJW's driving this change. Now they need to finish the job by replacing it with a name that no one can possibly find offensive. They will either want to pick the name, or more likely, have final authority over which name(s) are presented to the Administration and Board for final approval. For example, PETA has taken an official position against mascots with animal names, real or imaginary. They say it is exploitative. To our resident SJW's selecting an animal name wouuld risk putting out 1 fire and starting another. So forget the animal names - that won't happen. While we're at it cross off anything that represents war or aggression, so forget knights and all related name variations. Moreover, the current shield will be perceived as having an undeniable tie to the Crusader. The obvious claim will be that retaining it runs the risk of continuing to offend people like the good Muslim professor who won't be able to mentally separate it from the crusader. Anything with a geological tie could be affected by climate change, thus potentially having a short shelf life of 10 years max. That eliminates moraine, dunes, lakers, etc. They might support Brown and Gold, but it's far from a slam dunk. Gold is far more than a color. Socialists and Marxists associate gold with wealth, power, capitalism, elitism, privelege, etc.
So what will the SJW's find acceptable? I read somewhere that the least objectionable names to people of this ilk are abstract terms that have no connection to anything. Case in point - the Miami "Heat." Cost, convenience, and simplicity are of no importance to SJW's. They think at a much higher level than you and me. This is about remediating Valparaiso University's offensive, insensitive, unwelcoming standing and reputation. They only have 1 chance to get it right. It's far too important to risk doing it on the cheap.
Quote from: wh on March 03, 2021, 11:55:43 AMFor example, PETA has taken an official position against mascots with animal names, real or imagined.
Oh damn! I was really hoping we could go with Etwetritschen because it was mythical ;D
I am a simple guy and this should be a simple matter. :'(
Quote from: wh on March 03, 2021, 11:55:43 AMI read somewhere that the least objectionable names to people of this ilk are abstract terms that have no connection to anything. Case in point - the Miami "Heat."
In honor of Brian Wardle why not call us the "Ice"?
President Padilla has named a 10-person committee to recommend to him up to four mascot/nickname suggestions from which he will choose the selection. Representing athletes and the athletics department on the committee: Eron Gordon and Mark LaBarbera. The alumni representative is a vocal member of the anti-Crusader group. "The recommendations must represent the values, spirit and character of Valparaiso University."
If you would like to submit a suggestion for the Mascot Committee to consider, please submit it on the form at the following campus link:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc2VPtc6v2QCV6HPYLexT_6xY6_nc90b9nGbCzuO-7fcPCmnw/viewform (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc2VPtc6v2QCV6HPYLexT_6xY6_nc90b9nGbCzuO-7fcPCmnw/viewform)
or email it to ideasforvalpo@valpo.edu.
Quote from: valpopal on March 03, 2021, 01:53:07 PM"The recommendations must represent the values, spirit and character of Valparaiso University.
This is a tall order! Even money that none of these final 4 recommendations can achieve this stated goal while our old nickname kind of did.
I think the media should start giving the Valpo teams a nickname - kickstart the process. "And here are the Golden Browners". Or some other name that the administration might not care for. Bold DunesRats.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
If we became the Golden Browners, our mascot could be a big tator tot.
Very tempted to suggest "Crusaders". But also wouldn't mind going by "Knights" and bringing the old logo/mascot back.
In case any of you didn't receive the mascot committee announcement from the new president:
https://alumni.valpo.edu/controls/email_marketing/view_in_browser.aspx?sid=1347&gid=1&sendId=2239121&ecatid=4&puid=a972ee0f-58d6-44c0-bdea-e14bec42a2ce
Did anyone else get an email from the new President? Frankly, I am deeply offended by what he said:
"The Committee will send me recommendations that reflect the values, spirit and character of Valparaiso University, and I WILL SELECT the University's new mascot or nickname from among the recommendations."
Who is this guy? The Committee should send him one recommendation. How can he have the final decision on what the nickname should be?
Actually I appreciate Padilla taking ownership of the choice. We know who to be angry at if we hate it. Much easier than the obscure process by which the Crusader was canned.
Quote from: tjjvalpo on March 03, 2021, 07:27:47 PM
Did anyone else get an email from the new President? Frankly, I am deeply offended by what he said:
"The Committee will send me recommendations that reflect the values, spirit and character of Valparaiso University, and I WILL SELECT the University's new mascot or nickname from among the recommendations."
Who is this guy? The Committee should send him one recommendation. How can he have the final decision on what the nickname should be?
I actually thought the same thing. Why have a committee to name a new mascot, if one new dude's opinion is all that will matter? Is it simply to absolve the named committee members from the backlash? I would have thought that a committee would narrow down the list to 4, and then conduct additional votes to eliminate them 1x1, until you have a winner. I get that he is the new President, but the new dude gets to make the final decision? A CEO would provide more deference to their executive committee, if just starting with a company.
Quote from: valpotx on March 04, 2021, 12:25:39 AMQuote from: tjjvalpo on March 03, 2021, 07:27:47 PMDid anyone else get an email from the new President? Frankly, I am deeply offended by what he said: "The Committee will send me recommendations that reflect the values, spirit and character of Valparaiso University, and I WILL SELECT the University's new mascot or nickname from among the recommendations." Who is this guy? The Committee should send him one recommendation. How can he have the final decision on what the nickname should be?
I actually thought the same thing. Why have a committee to name a new mascot, if one new dude's opinion is all that will matter? Is it simply to absolve the named committee members from the backlash? I would have thought that a committee would narrow down the list to 4, and then conduct additional votes to eliminate them 1x1, until you have a winner. I get that he is the new President, but the new dude gets to make the final decision? A CEO would provide more deference to their executive committee, if just starting with a company.
I'm curious to see how much transparency there is to this process. Are we going to see all the names that were considered? Are we going to get any insight as to why some of the more well liked names maybe were eliminated from consideration? Are we going to even see the final 4 list or will we just get a vague email in a few weeks saying here is the final name and here is why it represents Valpo. I appreciate that there is a group of people to help decide this, but I'd like to understand how diverse their opinions on the matter are. Are we getting a 10 person committee that were all happy the Crusader was gone or are we getting some in there that would like to salvage some of the legacy? And does this committee have any guardrails they need to consider (i.e. keeping the Shield as the unifying brand image?).
In the end, I'm somewhat happy there is someone at the top that will make this decision. Otherwise we will get 6 committee members that vote one way, 4 that vote the other and the 4 that don't get their way will complain and claim all sorts of things and cause more drama than its worth. And four choices gives cover to the President that he's not just pitting two sides against each other.
Why shouldn't he have a final say? He's the boss. I appreciate that they formed a committee and are at least on the surface saying they will take input/suggestions.
Yeah I think him saying nope I'll make the final call is good people are going to be pissed no matter what. Remember when they redid the Crusader. People either loved it or HATED it. This type of stuff actually ends up being purely subjective based on what people personally like and then they layer reasonings on over it but it's gonna be mostly whichever one people think looks/sounds the coolest.
All i'd say is I hope they run the name/imagery through maybe some high schoolers or college students to make sure there's nothing unintentionally funny about it.
Is there a place where we will have an opportunity to give our opinion for the new mascot? I cannot believe that a decision will be made without getting alot of input form alumni, etc.
Quote from: valpo64 on March 04, 2021, 11:32:16 AM
Is there a place where we will have an opportunity to give our opinion for the new mascot? I cannot believe that a decision will be made without getting alot of input form alumni, etc.
In addition to filling out the correct form I responded to the email where you could see who are the members of the committee as well as respond in more detail.
ideasforvalpo@valpo.edu.
I finally took the time to look at President Padilla's background and watch his introductory videos, including an especially impressive one on his first day on the job. I'm really glad I did. It has left me with a very favorable first impression and hope for the future of Valparaiso University. I find his unapologic comments about his solid Catholic faith, wanting to pray together as a community, his DePaul background, etc., refreshing. One thing I admire about Catholic universities and hospitals (no, I'm not Catholic) is they don't try to run away from their faith. My wife worked at St. Anthony's Hospital in Crown Point for many years. Everyone is welcome there regardless of race, religion, or whatever. They don't push their faith on anyone, yet they don't hide it or apologize for it. Their crucifixes, statues of Christ and Mary, the stations of the cross, etc. are on full display. They have a public prayer over the PA system every day at noon. They don't operate out of fear that Protestants, Athiests, Muslims, or whomever might feel offended or have a meltdown. They don't acquiesce to the whims of pot stirring employees. They don't apologize for their tough stand on abortion. They don't try to modernize God to remain relevant. I'm hopeful that President Padilla brings some of that spiritual strength of conviction to Valpo. It is sorely needed.
Quote from: wh on March 04, 2021, 12:17:27 PM
I finally took the time to look at President Padilla's background and watch his introductory videos, including an especially impressive one on his first day on the job. I'm really glad I did. It has left me with a very favorable first impression and hope for the future of Valparaiso University. I find his unapologic comments about his solid Catholic faith, wanting to pray together as a community, his DePaul background, etc., refreshing. One thing I admire about Catholic universities and hospitals (no, I'm not Catholic) is they don't try to run away from their faith. My wife worked at St. Anthony's Hospital in Crown Point for many years. Everyone is welcome there regardless of race, religion, or whatever. They don't push their faith on anyone, yet they don't hide it or apologize for it. Their crucifixes, statues of Christ and Mary, the stations of the cross, etc. on on full display. They have a public prayer over the PA system every day at noon. They don't operate out of fear that Protestants, Athiests, Muslims, or whomever might feel offended or have a meltdown. They don't acquiesce to the whims of pot stirring employees. They don't apologize for their tough stand on abortion. They don't try to modernize God to remain relavent. I'm hopeful that President Padilla brings some of that spiritual strength of conviction to Valpo. It is sorely needed.
This is all well and good, but societal stats also indicate that the younger generations are not as tied to religion as prior generations (including myself). If we go too strong on that side, it is going to severely limit our applicant pool.
Well, if you don't want the President to make the decision, who will?
To me, it seems pretty obvious that the person that runs the University has the final decision. That's how it should be. It's just like any CEO, you gather information and rely on your board, but ultimately you have to make the important decisions.
I know some people that were familiar with Padilla from his time in Chicago. They all raved about him. And, I agree, his speeches so far were very impressive. Although I personally don't believe he is going to be as strict religiously as hospitals. At an university, you have to be more open-minded. It's more about peddling values, whereas often hospitals tend to pedal religion. I think that's what he will do here
He also is a college sports fan in general from what he's stated and what I've heard and I can't confirm but I believe Athletics now has a direct report to his office which was slightly different than under Heckler who I believe had them go through another position.
Maybe someone who's more connected to those parts of campus though can clarify.
The Valpo Lutes.
Quote from: Chitwood on March 04, 2021, 01:55:21 PM
I know some people that were familiar with Padilla from his time in Chicago. They all raved about him.
Are you speaking about when he worked for Lori Lightfoot's team?
Quote from: valpopal on March 04, 2021, 02:13:16 PM
Quote from: Chitwood on March 04, 2021, 01:55:21 PM
I know some people that were familiar with Padilla from his time in Chicago. They all raved about him.
Are you speaking about when he worked for Lori Lightfoot's team?
Oh. And here I thought DePaul was in Chicago!
Quote from: crusader05 on March 04, 2021, 02:04:11 PM
He also is a college sports fan in general from what he's stated and what I've heard and I can't confirm but I believe Athletics now has a direct report to his office which was slightly different than under Heckler who I believe had them go through another position.
Maybe someone who's more connected to those parts of campus though can clarify.
The Athletics Department has traditionally been guided by the Committee on Intercollegiate Athletics, which acts as an intermediary to the president. I served on the committee years ago, and if my memory is correct, it consists of five faculty members (one of whom serves as chair), two students, a vice president, the Athletics Director, a representative of women's athletics, and a compliance officer. In my time, and I believe this has been true since then, most decisions involving athletics were made or ratified by that body.
I found another German mythical animal that sounds better.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wolpertinger
The Wolpertinger is a rabbit-like mythical animal. In German the "w" is pronounced like a "v" so it would sound like Valparaiso Volpertinger.
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/28/Wolpertinger.jpg)
Quote from: bbtds on March 04, 2021, 02:26:12 PMo
Well I don't think we need that 10 person committee anymore. Clearly we have our winner.
If you are referencing Depaul, then yes... But, no idea if Lightfoot is a blue demon fan. I only know that she roots for the White Sox
One of my friends worked under him as a law clerk for a little while. He really liked Padilla
A University President may have the final say on certain matters, but that is only because the board (and probably major donors) grant that authority to him or her. And that degree of authority applies to decisions individually. So if the board decides that they want the final say on the mascot, they will have the final say. My guess is that President Padilla has "final say", but that the board has veto power (which they have for all decisions).
The Valparaiso Lorax ;)
"It's not about what it is, it's about what it can become."
With no disrespect to our new President and only to give a jab to Loyola, how about the "95ers"?
But seriously.... how about:
The Campaniles (Kamp-ah-knee-lees)
Campanile: Bell Tower
To highlight the Valpo bell tower in front of the Chapel
Beacon.
Shout out to the region and the flame Lighting the Way concept. And the great lakes lighthouses. We also would not have to rebrand the yearbook.
The character could be Lampy... fun when we play oakland again.
My opinion, but if you need a dictionary (campaniles) or knowledge of mythical German creatures, it's probably not a name that will work.
I'd say the same for names that you have to explain the connection to Valpo (Kernels).
Name is not just for the fans and alumni (although it should have the goal of bringing the Valpo community together). This name needs to be used as a marketing and recruitment tool to a broader audience.
Quote from: vuny98 on March 07, 2021, 09:05:21 AM
My opinion, but if you need a dictionary (campaniles) or knowledge of mythical German creatures, it's probably not a name that will work.
I'd say the same for names that you have to explain the connection to Valpo (Kernels).
Name is not just for the fans and alumni (although it should have the goal of bringing the Valpo community together). This name needs to be used as a marketing and recruitment tool to a broader audience.
You ever heard of the Billikens?
https://www.bannersociety.com/2020/3/9/21150913/college-mascot-nicknames
80 mythological
Quote from: bbtds on March 08, 2021, 02:47:38 AMBillikens?
I'm not saying that there aren't some crazy and unique names out there. Some of them, like Billikens are over 100 years old, so they are "accepted" now. But to try and rebrand a college mascot, in the age of social media, is a different thing than in 1910 giving the team a nickname and it sticking. Especially for a University that wants to considers itself elite. Again, just my opinion.
Plus lets be honest here, this is that statue at SLU of Billiken. How long do we give it until this is called racist and canceled?(https://www.slu.edu/about/images/billiken-statue.jpg)
Quote from: vuny98 on March 08, 2021, 09:49:02 AM
Quote from: bbtds on March 08, 2021, 02:47:38 AMBillikens?
I'm not saying that there aren't some crazy and unique names out there. Some of them, like Billikens are over 100 years old, so they are "accepted" now. But to try and rebrand a college mascot, in the age of social media, is a different thing than in 1910 giving the team a nickname and it sticking. Especially for a University that wants to considers itself elite. Again, just my opinion.
Plus lets be honest here, this is that statue at SLU of Billiken. How long do we give it until this is called racist and canceled?(https://www.slu.edu/about/images/billiken-statue.jpg)
Put that comment on the SLU message board and see how they respond. It would be worse than suggesting they join the MVC again.
https://www.billikens.com/forum/index.php?/forum/101-billikenscom-main-board/
I posted it as "If suddenly the SLU administration declared the Billiken offensive what new mascot would you pick?" and one of the responses I got was
"the day we become anything but a billiken i'm looking for a new alma mater."
I do think that the one piece of info they dropped from the survey about most people identifying us as "Valpo" and how even Lottich stated incoming players didn't even know we were the crusaders means we can go for a fun or idiosyncratic mascot and not worry about it in regards to national recognitions.
Not every school is intrinsically linked to their mascot.I also think not worrying about that can take some pressure of it's replacement and honestly, you can incorporate the shield to most any mascot just by using it as a background and/or placing it anywhere on their costume.
PAUL OREN: 5 nicknames Valparaiso should consider
https://www.nwitimes.com/sports/college/valparaiso-university/paul-oren-5-nicknames-valparaiso-should-consider/article_c95b389d-2f7a-5709-8e0c-4aefc61d9a9a.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1
As Paul said (or should have said) since there is no way to put the appeasement genie back in the bottle once 'ze' is out, we might as well make the best of it. Of his 5 suggestions, I like Golden Knights. I think the image really pops. Good job by the graphic designer on all the images.
Absolutely. Also, most schools have at least two logos. Purdue has the "P" and the train symbol. IU has the cursive script and the trident... It's totally reasonable to continue using the shield symbol even if the name changes to something different, whether that be the dunehawks or the Trailblazers or the golden guard. You can still have another logo. The shield can still stick around no matter the new name
Paladins, as for Furman using it, so what? How many teams use Rams, Saints, Bulldogs etc. A Paladin is a religious warrior so Valpo could keep the knight.
Are there any actual soft or hard target dates to pick a name?
From what I read the committee has been chosen and by early May four mascot choices will be presented to the new University President.
http://www.valpotorch.com/news/article_d3421e96-8b3a-11eb-9f8b-1bbc96c0de9c.html
When choosing a new mascot Valparaiso University Chapel Pastor James Wetzstein added "I think it should be uniting, fun." -which brings me to remind the committee that Valpo United can still be a contender as a new nickname for Valparaiso University ;)
Quote from: VALPO LI on March 29, 2021, 11:27:46 AM
From what I read the committee has been chosen and by early May four mascot choices will be presented to the new University President.
http://www.valpotorch.com/news/article_d3421e96-8b3a-11eb-9f8b-1bbc96c0de9c.html
When choosing a new mascot Valparaiso University Chapel Pastor James Wetzstein added "I think it should be uniting, fun." -which brings me to remind the committee that Valpo United can still be a contender as a new nickname for Valparaiso University ;)
The other quote that stood out to me was from Mark LaBarbera:
"One of the things I'm hopeful for is that we'll be able to find a way to retain the shield, because I think the shield of character represents basically all of the things people felt were good about being a Crusader, all the positive pieces of it and then I think we need to find something that's fun and that people can get behind when they see the mascot or when the mascot is at games," LaBarbera said."
I'm especially pleased that he has emphasized the positive aspects of the prior mascot. Those were items that were foolishly missing from retirement announcement.
Valpo Flames all the way! The Valpo Shield of Character already is prevalent within the community. The cost of changing to the Flames would be minimal. I am aware that UIC also go by the Flames moniker, which is a drawback. If we are honest, could be a great time to change the color scheme of the Brown and Gold as there are not too many universities or pro teams with these colors, perhaps more money could be made from bookstore purchases with more traditional college colors.
Quote from: VUFan2021 on April 02, 2021, 10:32:40 AMould be a great time to change the color scheme of the Brown and Gold
Seriously, why would you want to change from the brown and gold? Something more catchy like. say, blue and white?
Quote from: VUFan2021 on April 02, 2021, 10:32:40 AM
Valpo Flames all the way! The Valpo Shield of Character already is prevalent within the community. The cost of changing to the Flames would be minimal. I am aware that UIC also go by the Flames moniker, which is a drawback. If we are honest, could be a great time to change the color scheme of the Brown and Gold as there are not too many universities or pro teams with these colors, perhaps more money could be made from bookstore purchases with more traditional college colors.
Please provide a list of other pro or college teams that use our colors. Other than Wyoming I am unaware of any.
Flames, please no.
The Mustangs of Southwestern Minnesota State is another.
Quote from: JD24 on April 02, 2021, 08:58:30 PM
The Mustangs of Southwestern Minnesota State is another.
Looks like Valpo, Wyoming, SW Minn and Baldwin-Wallace are the only US colleges, with no pro teams using our colors. Honestly I like that.
I grew to love the brown and gold colors. What is Lehigh? Brown and something else
Quote from: valpotx on April 03, 2021, 12:56:38 AM
I grew to love the brown and gold colors. What is Lehigh? Brown and something else
I think it's Brown and White and use maroon as an accent color.
Quote from: IndyValpo on April 02, 2021, 09:56:36 PM
Quote from: JD24 on April 02, 2021, 08:58:30 PM
The Mustangs of Southwestern Minnesota State is another.
Looks like Valpo, Wyoming, SW Minn and Baldwin-Wallace are the only US colleges, with no pro teams using our colors. Honestly I like that.
Wyoming and Valpo I believe are the only Division I programs that share the same school colors.
Adelphi University in NY (DII), Baldwin Wallace in Ohio (DIII), Rowan University NJ (DIII) also share the same brown and gold colors.
Western Michigan University Broncos are brown and gold but the University refreshed their brand and introduced a metallic gold to their logo while phasing out the "yellow" gold similar to Valpo Football. Southwest Minnesota State University also has a metallic gold with brown as their school colors.
Other Division I schools that share the brown are Lehigh (brown/white), St. Bonaventure (brown/white), Bowling Green (brown/orange) and Brown University (brown/white/cardinal).
And BTW the San Diego Padres sport the brown and gold uniforms!!!
Quote from: VALPO LI on April 03, 2021, 09:56:02 AM
Quote from: IndyValpo on April 02, 2021, 09:56:36 PM
Quote from: JD24 on April 02, 2021, 08:58:30 PM
The Mustangs of Southwestern Minnesota State is another.
Looks like Valpo, Wyoming, SW Minn and Baldwin-Wallace are the only US colleges, with no pro teams using our colors. Honestly I like that.
Wyoming and Valpo I believe are the only Division I programs that share the same school colors.
Adelphi University in NY (DII), Baldwin Wallace in Ohio (DIII), Rowan University NJ (DIII) also share the same brown and gold colors.
Western Michigan University Broncos are brown and gold but the University refreshed their brand and introduced a metallic gold to their logo while phasing out the "yellow" gold similar to Valpo Football. Southwest Minnesota State University also has a metallic gold with brown as their school colors.
Other Division I schools that share the brown are Lehigh (brown/white), St. Bonaventure (brown/white), Bowling Green (brown/orange) and Brown University (brown/white/cardinal).
And BTW the San Diego Padres sport the brown and gold uniforms!!!
Good catch on the Padres, I forgot they went back to their original this year
Yes, it's always been a logo wear dilemna. Brown just doesn't work. And without it you end up wearing all yellow/gold. Very dark maroon seems logical. But design ain't m thing.
I can only imagine the ways in which — based on past precedent and the ways in which programs have been cut and a lack of facility improvements have been made to the existing ARC — Valpo will elect to go with the most cost-effective option.
Short of announcing a sponsorship from a major corporation, there's no way Valpo goes with new colors or anything radically different (mascot-wise) for cost-savings.
But, we can dream!
Quote from: crusadermoe on April 04, 2021, 11:47:25 AMBrown just doesn't work.
It doesn't? The Brown jerseys for the basketball, football, baseball etc. all look great!
Brown/Gold can work but you have do it Wyoming-style - which we've rarely done. Wear this year's brown jerseys for all road games and it would work.
Love the brown and gold colors!
I'm less concerned about the uniforms, and more concerned the colors that show on TV and in person. My two cents (and that's all it's worth) is that gold needs to be the dominant color for fans. Having gone to all four MVC tourney games in 2020, there's something about walking into an arena and seeing a section of fans with the same color. There was no mistaking the Bradley fan base in red. Same for Missouri State in maroon. Maybe it's living in STL and going to Cards games for 50+ years in a "sea of red". As a fan, you just know what to wear. The Valpo fan base at the MVC had a hodge podge of brown, gold or no color at all. Gold shows in the arena and on TV. "Look at that sea of brown" has yet to roll off an announcer's tongue.
Judging by the comments, I'm probably in the minority. But I'd switch to black and gold or maroon and gold, and emphasize gold spirit wear.
To go along with the new mascot, I say we rebrand the ARC as the House of Drew.
The Valparaiso Drews.
Try counting how many schools use "rams" or "dogs"etc. Also Golden Knights is already in use by high schools and Vegas team. So Paladins would work as a Paladin is a knight (holding shield works too) as Furmans paladin is a knight on a horse. Valpos Paladin could be current Knight holding shield.
I'm firmly in the "if you're going to change it than really change it" so no knights or paladins etc. you can incorporate the shield no matter what so let's really change it. I do also tend to prefer animal mascots in general or kind of unique ones.
Quote from: soapyjeans on April 06, 2021, 08:28:45 AM
Try counting how many schools use "rams" or "dogs"etc. Also Golden Knights is already in use by high schools and Vegas team. So Paladins would work as a Paladin is a knight (holding shield works too) as Furmans paladin is a knight on a horse. Valpos Paladin could be current Knight holding shield.
You rule out Golden Knights then propose a name already in use in D1?
The Golden Knight or Paladin makes the most sense from a cost standpoint. Basically what happened when Valpo switched from the Uhlen to the Crusader. Same guy in armor. It's the word Crusader that is the issue not a person in a helmet. Keep it simple. If we end up being the eagles, falcons or golden retrievers for that matter, it just comes across as lame. Now, if we can come up with a mascot that ties into the many references to light at the University now, then that is unique and worthwhile. "In Thy Light We See Light" The Beacon, The Lighter, The Torch etc. Perhaps as has been suggested The Flames could be the answer or maybe Blaze, Flash or Flare? Way above my pay grade.
The shield is staying, at least in the short run it will be a presence. It is on the new baseball turf. If it was going away, wouldn't they have NOT had it a part of the new field? I have to say the timing of this change is very problematic. Valpo had no money right now to be undergoing these changes and the expensive process it will require. Seems too much like a knee jerk reaction instead of a well thought out process. I don't think there are a lot of people who are willing to fund it either.
https://youtu.be/SXq3kLjOSC4
I really don't think it will end up being as expensive just because the Crusader name and imagery had already been phased out so much. Also the term "retirement' of the crusader nickname seems to me to mean that they're not going try and do an intense scrubbing and will probably work to change it out over time in areas where it's painted places and such.
Maybe they'll use it to get those people who wanted the change to donate "you want the Crusader off the ARC floor faster than pony up"
Quote from: vu72 on April 06, 2021, 03:45:26 PM
The Golden Knight or Paladin makes the most sense from a cost standpoint. Basically what happened when Valpo switched from the Uhlen to the Crusader. Same guy in armor. It's the word Crusader that is the issue not a person in a helmet. Keep it simple. If we end up being the eagles, falcons or golden retrievers for that matter, it just comes across as lame. Now, if we can come up with a mascot that ties into the many references to light at the University now, then that is unique and worthwhile. "In Thy Light We See Light" The Beacon, The Lighter, The Torch etc. Perhaps as has been suggested The Flames could be the answer or maybe Blaze, Flash or Flare? Way above my pay grade.
I have no idea what we end up with but some of our suggestions are priceless. Can you still buy a Bic Lighter, a perfect mascot.
I had no idea what a Paladin was so I learned something. I googled it and the first 25 or so hits are for a sci-fi on line shooter game. Perfect.
I can't say that I favor Paladin as the new mascot, but I do associate it with Valpo basketball. After VU games when I was a boy, I would run home and turn on the TV. I remember Have Gun Will Travel being the show that would be on. For you youngsters, the main character of the show was named Paladin; his calling card had the picture of a knight, but it was the knight from a chess set.
Have gun will travel reads the card of a man. Have gun will travel...Paladin!
Quote from: humbleopinion on April 06, 2021, 08:00:48 PM
I can't say that I favor Paladin as the new mascot, but I do associate it with Valpo basketball. After VU games when I was a boy, I would run home and turn on the TV. I remember Have Gun Will Travel being the show that would be on. For you youngsters, the main character of the show was named Paladin; his calling card had the picture of a knight, but it was the knight from a chess set.
I had the holster and cap gun set when I was a kid which came with the calling cards. "A fast gun for higher in a savage land...a soldier of fortune was the man called...Paladin".
Quote from: elephtheria47 on April 06, 2021, 07:38:10 AMThe Valparaiso Drews.
The basketball team previously known as the Drewsaders.
The Paladin Portals
Have Sneakers, Will Travel
Perfect!
Quote from: bb33 on April 06, 2021, 04:43:04 PM
The shield is staying, at least in the short run it will be a presence. It is on the new baseball turf. If it was going away, wouldn't they have NOT had it a part of the new field? I have to say the timing of this change is very problematic. Valpo had no money right now to be undergoing these changes and the expensive process it will require. Seems too much like a knee jerk reaction instead of a well thought out process. I don't think there are a lot of people who are willing to fund it either.
https://youtu.be/SXq3kLjOSC4
The shield can stay, even if the nickname is drastically different. Most schools have multiple logos already. If Alabama can be the Crimson Tide and have an elephant, Valpo can be the Voyagers/vultures/Lakers/whatever and still keep the shield logo.
Too late to add to the list... but what about The Family?
In keeping with the Torch theme, what about "The Fire"?
The actual name iof the type of shield in our logo is a Heater Shield.
The Valpo Heaters.