Crusaders Retired

[JD24]

The Valparaiso Dunes

Valparaiso Cara Dunes 

How about Lorna Dunes?

People will have their stomach growling at each mention.

[rogerwilco]

The Valparaiso Cruise Aid Givers?
I mean, it's helpful and topical.

[rogerwilco]

The Valparaiso Cruise Aid Givers? I mean, it's helpful and topical.

Shorten it to Cruise Aiders

[VUGrad1314]

Even if I'm neutral on the name change does everyone remember when we were making headlines because we were good at basketball? Those sure were some good times that feel like an eternity ago... If the new name brings with it good karma to make our program good again change me from neutral to all for it.

[humbleopinion]

I presume that there will be some effort to tie the new name to Valpo's motto "In Thy light, we see light."

I would have to presume that they will reject the traditional term for those who carry the candle in a liturgical procession.  Trivia question:  what is that term?

[usc4valpo]

JD24 - how was my response offensive?

[Valpo2022]

Why not keep the name Crusaders, and retire the mascot? Follow the lead of another institution, the College of the Holy Cross, which has successfully navigated these same waters by choosing to accept their own definition of what it means to be a "Crusader" and not accept definitions of the past and/or ones dictated by outside "hate groups" which do not represent Valpo and its many stakeholders. See the post below copied from the Holy Cross website.

From: Rev. Philip L. Boroughs, S.J., President of the College
To: Alumni, Students, Faculty and Staff
March 14, 2018

Dear Members of the College Community,

Several weeks ago, our Board of Trustees completed a period of discussion and discernment and, based on thoughtful input from many of you, chose to reaffirm our identity as Crusaders. But our work was not done. At the same time, the Board tasked our administration with assessing all visual representations of the Crusader, to ensure they align with our definition of what it means to be a Holy Cross Crusader. That definition is based on a contemporary understanding of the term, which suggests a noble effort to support a cause, to right a wrong or to make a difference.

As we discussed as a community the appropriateness of our use of the Crusader moniker and mascot, several themes emerged. We are Holy Cross Crusaders for:

The importance of the intellectual life, critical thinking and reflective learning.
The Jesuit and Catholic intellectual and spiritual traditions.
The dialogue between faith and reason.
The common good, human rights, social justice and care for the environment.
Human life.
Interreligious understanding and dialogue.
Inclusivity and respect for different cultures, perspectives and identities.
Honesty, equality, fairness and freedom of speech.
Health of mind, body and spirit.

Since the founding of the College, our students, faculty, staff, and alumni have embodied these ideals. Our students spend their spring breaks working with the poor and marginalized in Haiti, Nicaragua, Bolivia and Appalachia and recent grads generously join the Jesuit Volunteer Corps, Teach for America and the Peace Corps. Our alumni become teachers, doctors, researchers, government officials, religious and priests, and advocates for the transformation of society through education, social service and business. These are just a few examples of what it means to be a Crusader today.

Upon reflection on this contemporary definition, it is clear that our current visual representations of the Crusader do not align with this understanding. For some, knight imagery alone could convey nobility, chivalry and bravery. However, the visual depiction of a knight, in conjunction with the moniker Crusader, inevitably ties us directly to the reality of the religious wars and the violence of the Crusades. This imagery stands in contrast to our stated values.

Over the coming months, the College will gradually phase out the use of all knight-related imagery. Moving forward, the College will use the interlocking HC on a purple shield, currently the secondary athletics logo, as the primary marker for all athletic teams, uniforms and advertising. This also means we will retire our costumed mascot. I understand these decisions will be a disappointment to some of you but I trust our community's support for Holy Cross and for our athletic teams will continue unwaveringly.

I want to thank all of you who have participated in this discussion about our identity. These conversations aren't easy, but they are necessary. I am hopeful we have emerged with an even stronger sense of who we are and what we stand for, and that you all remain as proud as I am to be a part of the Holy Cross community.

Sincerely,

Rev. Philip L. Boroughs, S.J.
President

[usc4valpo]

This is feeling like the South Park Christmas episode where Mr. Hankey saves the day.

[oklahomamick]

This distracts from a sub par basketball results. 

[mj]

Considering the financial position of VU, I would hope that the financial impact of changing the mascot was considered. If not, then it would seem to be another example of the university making questionable financial decisions.

It wouldn't surprise me to see them go with Knights or Valiants just so they wouldn't have to redo the basketball court.

[78crusader]

I think the survey was simply an exercise to provide cover for the administration when it decided to announce (the preordained) decision to jettison the Crusader name.  Similarly, I suspect the decision was announced by the Interim President in order to provide cover for the incoming President ("Hey, the decision was made before I officially assumed the office of the President").  I don't believe for a second that this decision was not blessed by the new President. 

This unwise move by the University has made the work of our Athletics Department employees, every one of whom is a fine person, that much harder.

Paul

[humbleopinion]

Valpo certainly isn't the first to go through this:

List of college nickname changes in the United States
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia


Adams State Grizzlies, formerly the "Indians"
Akron Zips, called the "Zippers" from 1927 to 1950; this was changed when the term became most associated with the type of clothing fastener.[1][2]
Alabama–Huntsville Chargers, changed from "Uhlan Chargers" to "Chargers" over time[3]
Alaska Nanooks, changed from the "Polar Bears" to "Nanooks" (the Inupiaq word for polar bear) in 1963.[4]
Alvernia Golden Wolves, changed from "Crusaders" ahead of the 2017–18 season[5]
Amherst Mammoths, adopted in 2017 after "Lord Jeffs" was dropped in 2016[6][7]
Arizona State Sun Devils, formerly the "Owls",[8] then the "Bulldogs" from 1922 to 1946[9][10]
Arkansas Razorbacks, changed from the "Cardinals" in 1909.[11]
Arkansas State Red Wolves, formerly the "Indians" (1931–2008), "Warriors" (1930–1931), "Gorillas" (1925–1930), and "Aggies" (1911–1925).[12]
Arkansas Tech Wonder Boys — Originally nicknamed "Aggies"; the term "Wonder Boys" was first attached to the school's football team in an Arkansas Gazette story on November 17, 1920, and was soon officially adopted. The women's nickname of "Golden Suns" was adopted once Tech added women's sports.[13]
Army Black Knights, the current nickname was derived from newspapers calling the team the "Black Knights of the Hudson" in the 1930s. It was changed from the "Cadets" in 1999. Cadets is still considered an acceptable use, however.[14]
Auburn–Montgomery Warhawks — Changed from "Senators" in 2011.
Ball State Cardinals, changed from the "Hoosieroons" in 1929.[15]
Baruch Bearcats, formerly the "Statesmen"
Belmont Bruins, changed from "Rebels" in 1995
Bethel Threshers, changed from "Graymaroons" in 1960[16]
Binghamton Bearcats, changed from "Colonials" in 2000. The school has had two previous nickname changes, but both coincided with changes of the school name. For those changes, see below.
Bloomfield Bears, changed from "Deacons" in 2014
Bowling Green Falcons, changed from the "Normals" in 1927.[17]
Bradley Braves, changed from "Indians" in the 1930s[18]
Brewton–Parker Barons, formerly the "Wildcats"
Brooklyn Bridges, formerly the "Kingsmen"
Brown Bears, Senator Theodore F. Green suggested the nickname "Bears" in 1904,[19] but the unofficial nickname "Bruins" became more prevalent starting in the 1930s.[20] It was formerly used interchangeably with the official nickname, although some media disused "Bruins" after a minor league hockey team, the Providence Bruins, was established nearby in 1992.[21]
Buffalo Bulls, formerly known as the "Bisons" (1915–1930), changed to distinguish from the city of Buffalo's identically named professional teams.[22]
Butler Bulldogs — First known as "Christians", alluding to the school's original name of North Western Christian University (though it had become Butler University in 1877, before the school had an athletic program). The "Bulldogs" nickname was first used in 1919 by a cartoonist for Butler's student newspaper, and was soon officially adopted.
Cal State Los Angeles Golden Eagles, changed from "Diablos" in January 1981[23]
Campbell Fighting Camels — Officially adopted near the start of 1934; originated from a misunderstood conversation early in the 20th century between university founder James Archibald Campbell and a visitor trying to encourage him after a fire destroyed almost all of the school's original buildings. Before the official adoption of "Camels" (with "Fighting" added later), "Hornets", "Campbells", and "Campbellites" were variously used.[13]
Capital Crusaders, formerly the "Fighting Lutherans"[24]
Carthage Red Men, reverted from "Redmen"
Case Western Reserve Spartans, formed from the combination of Western Reserve and Case Institute of Technology. Western Reserve's nicknames were the Pioneers (1921—1927) and Red Cats (1928—1971). Case Institute of Technology's nicknames were the Scientists (1918—1938) and Rough Riders (1930—1971). In the 1930s, both of those names were used.[25]
Cedar Crest Falcons, formerly the "Classics"
UCF Knights, reverted from "Golden Knights" from 1993 to 2007.
Central Michigan Chippewas, formerly the "Bearcats" (1927–1942), "Dragons" (1925–1927), and the "Normalites" (until 1925). The current name was chosen in honor of the local Saginaw tribe, and has remained in use with the tribe's consent.[26][27]
Chowan Hawks, reverted from "Braves" in 2006
Cincinnati Christian Eagles, formerly the "Golden Eagles". The school closed during the 2019 fall academic term.
Colgate Raiders, changed from "Red Raiders" in 2001
Colorado Buffaloes, changed from the "Silver and Gold" in 1934. They had also been known informally as the "Arapahoes", "Big Horns", "Frontiersmen", "Grizzlies", "Hornets", "Yellow Jackets", and (the football team) "Silver Helmets".[28]
Colorado State Rams, referred to as "Aggies" before 1957
CSU–Pueblo ThunderWolves, changed from the "Indians" in 1995. The school name was changed from University of Southern Colorado in 2003.[29]
Crossroads Knights, formerly the "Royals"
Cumberland Phoenix, changed from Bulldogs in 2016[30]
Cumberlands Patriots, changed from the Cumberland "Indians" (note the singular "Cumberland") in 2002, when the school was known as Cumberland College. The school adopted its current name of the University of the Cumberlands in 2005.
Dartmouth Big Green, formerly "Indians" which was disused since the 1970s in favor of an existing nickname, "Big Green".
Davis & Elkins Senators, formerly the "Scarlet Hurricane"[24]
Dean Bulldogs, formerly the "Red Devils"
Detroit Mercy Titans, originally the "Tigers"; changed in 1919 or 1924, depending on the source. The school was then known as the University of Detroit, and the change was presumably made to avoid confusion with Major League Baseball's Detroit Tigers. While the school became the University of Detroit Mercy after a 1990 merger, the "Mercy" name was not added to the athletic branding until 2017.
Dickinson State Blue Hawks, changed from "Savages" in 1972
Dixie State Trailblazers, changed from "Rebels" to "Red Storm" in 2009, and "Trailblazers" in 2016
Duke Blue Devils, changed from "Blue and White" in 1923
D'Youville Saints, changed from "Spartans" in 2020[31]
East Carolina Pirates, changed from the "Teachers" in 1934.[32] The school was a teachers college until the 1940s.
Eastern Michigan Eagles, changed from the "Hurons" (1929–1991) due to pressure from the Michigan Department of Civil Rights; the teams had previously been known as the "Normalites" and the "Men from Ypsi".[33]
Eastern Nazarene Lions, changed from the "Crusaders" in 2009
Eastern Washington Eagles, changed from "Savages" in 1973
Elon Phoenix, formerly the "Fighting Christians"
Endicott Gulls, formerly the "Power Gulls"
FIU Panthers, changed from "Sunblazers" to "Golden Panthers" in 1987[34] and "Panthers" in 2010.
Fort Lewis Skyhawks, known first as the "Beavers", changed to "Aggies" in the early 1930s, changed to "Raiders" in 1963, and adopted current nickname in 1994
Furman Paladins, football team changed from "Hurricane" in 1961, baseball team changed from "Hornets" in 1961, basketball team has been "Paladins" all along.[35]
George Washington Colonials, changed from "Hatchetites" in 1928
Georgia Southern Eagles, formerly the Blue Tide (1924–1941) and Professors (1941–1959)
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, "Yellowjackets" (as one word) first came into use after it appeared in the Atlanta Constitution in 1905; other nicknames included "Techs" (discontinued c. 1910), "Engineers", "Blacksmiths" (1902–1904), and "Golden Tornado" (1917–1929)[36]
Hampton Pirates and Lady Pirates, known as the "Seasiders" from 1916 to 1932[24]
Hanover Panthers, formerly the "Hilltoppers"[24]
Hawaii Rainbow Warriors and Rainbow Wahine, known as "Fighting Deans" before 1923; the school's nickname was "Rainbows" from 1923 through 2000,[37] when the university allowed all of its athletic teams to adopt their own individual nicknames: the baseball team retained the "Rainbows" nickname; the men's basketball, swimming and diving, and tennis teams adopted "Rainbow Warriors"; the football, men's golf, and men's volleyball teams adopted "Warriors"; and all women's teams adopted the nickname "Rainbow Wahine". In 2013, the university announced that all men's teams would become "Rainbow Warriors" effective with the start of the 2013–14 school year. In one more recently added women's sport, beach volleyball, the official nickname remains "Rainbow Wahine", but that team has mostly deprecated it in favor of "SandBows".
Hawaii Pacific Sharks, changed from "Sea Warriors" in 2014
Hillsdale Chargers, changed from "Dales" in 1968[38]
Hofstra Pride, formerly the "Flying Dutchmen"
Huron Screaming Eagles, known as the "Scalpers", which was unofficially dropped in 1973; the "Tribe" then came into usage, was officially adopted in 1975, and remained until about 1997[39]
Husson Eagles, formerly the "Braves"
Ithaca Bombers, formerly the "Blue Team", "Blues", "Blue and Gold", "Collegians" and "Seneca Streeters." The name was changed to the "Cayugas" by a student vote in 1937. The origin of the nickname "Bombers" is unclear, but the first known reference was in a December 17, 1938 issue of the Rochester Times-Union article on the basketball team. Some faculty have expressed reservations of the current nickname's martial connotations.[40]
IUP Crimson Hawks, changed from the "Indians" in 2006
IUPUI Jaguars, changed from the "Metros" in 1997 upon moving to NCAA Division I.
Iowa State Cyclones, changed from "Cardinals" in 1895[41]
Johnson Royals, changed from the "Preachers" and "Lady Evangels" to the "Royals" in 2013[42]
Juniata Eagles, changed from "Indians" in 1994[43]
Kansas City Roos – As part of the 2019 rebranding of the University of Missouri–Kansas City athletic program from "UMKC" to "Kansas City", the nickname was shortened from the historic "Kangaroos" to "Roos" (which had been in use alongside "Kangaroos" for many years).[44] Only the athletic program was rebranded; the university name remains unchanged, and "UMKC" is still used for academic branding purposes.
Kansas State Wildcats, changed from the "Aggies" and the "Farmers" in 1915, before reverting to the old nicknames that same year, when the school was known as the Kansas State Agricultural College. It was changed permanently in 1920.[45] The school changed its name to Kansas State University later.

[humbleopinion]

More:

Kent State Golden Flashes, changed from the "Silver Foxes" in 1927[46]
Kentucky Wildcats, formerly "Blue and White" through 1909
Keuka Wolves, known as the "Storm" until 2014 and as the "Wolfpack" from 2014 to 2016, a nickname changed upon threat of legal action from North Carolina State University[47]
Knox Prairie Fire, known as the "Old Siwash" or "Siwash" until 1993[48]
Lander Bearcats, formerly the "Senators"
Lehigh Mountain Hawks, changed from the "Engineers" in 1995; also previously known as the "Brown and White"
Lincoln Christian Red Lions, formerly "Preachers" (men) and "Angels" (women).
Long Beach State Beach (or "The Beach"), officially known as 49ers before 2020–21, although the school had been transitioning to "The Beach" for several years. The baseball team continues to use Dirtbags.
Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns, changed from the "Bulldogs" to Raging Cajuns in the early 1960s. The "g" was dropped from the end of the first word later.[49]
Louisiana–Monroe Warhawks, changed from the "Indians" in 2006
Loyola Ramblers, changed from "Grandees" around 1926; the earlier nickname was selected in a contest held by the student newspaper but failed to catch on.[50]
Maranatha Baptist Sabercats – Changed from "Crusaders" in 2014.
Marquette Golden Eagles, changed from the "Warriors" in 1994, which had been used at least since 1960. Earlier nicknames included "Hilltoppers" and "Avalanche".
Marshall Thundering Herd, made official in the mid-1960s, although it was in unofficial use since the 1930s alongside the nickname the "Big Green".[51]
Maryland Terrapins, made official in 1932,[52] although in unofficial use earlier;[53] formerly the "Old Liners", and before that, the "Aggies" and "Farmers" when the school was known as Maryland Agricultural College.[54]
Maryville Scots, formerly the "Highlanders"[24]
MCLA Trailblazers, formerly the "Mohawks"
McMurry War Hawks, known as the "Indians" until that nickname was dropped in 2006[55]
Memphis Tigers, originally adopted in 1915 when the school was known as the West Tennessee State Normal School, but changed to "Teachers" and "Tutors" when the school name was changed to West Tennessee State Teachers College. In 1939, the Tigers nickname was reintroduced. The school later changed its name to Memphis State College and then the University of Memphis.
Miami RedHawks, changed from the "Redskins" in 1997, the team had previously been known as the "Big Reds", the "Reds and Whites", the "Red-Skinned Warriors", and the "Miami Boys".[56]
Michigan State Spartans, changed from "Aggies" in 1925, which had been used contemporaneously with the unofficial nicknames of the "Fighting Farmers" and "Farmers".[57]
Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders, adopted in 1934 to replace a "wide range of names"[58]
Midwestern State Mustangs, formerly the "Indians"
Milwaukee Panthers, changed from "Cardinals" in 1964, when the school was branded athletically as "Wisconsin–Milwaukee". There was an earlier nickname change, but that coincided with a merger that resulted in a change of the school name. For that change, see below.
Minnesota State Mavericks, changed from "Indians" on July 1, 1977, when the school was known as "Mankato State".[59]
Mississippi State Bulldogs, changed from "Maroons" in 1961, they were known as the "Aggies" under the school changed its name from Mississippi A&M in 1932.[60]
Montclair State Red Hawks, changed from "Indians" in 1989[61]
Morningside Mustangs, changed from "Chiefs" in 1998; known as the "Maroons" from about 1910 until the late 1950s[62]
Multnomah Lions, formerly the "Ambassadors"
Nebraska Cornhuskers, adopted in 1900, the teams had formerly been known as the "Antelopes", "Bugeaters", "Old Gold Knights", "Rattlesnake Boys", and "Treeplanters"
Nebraska Wesleyan Prairie Wolves, changed from the "Plainsmen" in 2000[63]
Nevada Wolf Pack, adopted in 1923, they had previously been known as the "Sagebrushers" and "Sage Hens"[64]
Newberry Wolves, adopted in 2010 to replace "Indians", which had been dropped two years earlier. The teams had competed without a nickname in the interim.[65]
North Carolina State Wolfpack, adopted in 1922, previous nicknames had included the "Aggies", "Farmers", "Techs", and "Red Terrors"[66]
North Dakota Fighting Hawks – First known as the "Flickertails" until 1930, at which time "Fighting Sioux" was adopted.[67] After major controversy over this nickname in the early 21st century, "Fighting Sioux" was retired in 2012. The school then went without a nickname for three years, as the state passed a law prohibiting the selection of a new nickname until 2015. In November of that year, following two rounds of fan voting, a new nickname of "Fighting Hawks" was chosen and immediately adopted.
North Georgia Saints and Lady Saints — The first sports teams at what was then North Georgia College & State University were men's teams known as "Cadets", a nod to the school's status as a senior military college. When basketball became the first women's sport, that team was initially known as the "Golddiggers", referencing the school's location in the old gold-mining town of Dahlonega. By the late 1970s, the athletic program had settled on "Saints" and "Lady Saints". NGCSU no longer exists under that name, as it was merged into the University of North Georgia in 2013 with the new nickname of "Nighthawks" (see below).
North Greenville Crusaders, formerly the "Mounties"
North Texas Mean Green, formerly known as the "Eagles" (1922–1966), there are conflicting accounts on the origin of the nickname.[68][69]
Northeastern State RiverHawks, dropped Redmen in May 2006, adopted RiverHawks on November 14, 2006
Northern Illinois Huskies, adopted in 1940, previous names had included "Cardinals", "Evansmen", "Northerners", "Profs", and "Teachers"[70]
Northwest Christian Beacons, formerly the "Crusaders"
Northwestern Wildcats, changed from the "Purple" in 1924[71]
Notre Dame Fighting Irish, officially adopted in 1927, although it had been in use much earlier. Other nicknames included the "Catholics" in the 1880s and 1890s, and the "Ramblers" in the 1920s.[72]
Ohio Bobcats, replaced the "Green and White" in 1925[73]
Oklahoma Sooners, replaced the "Rough Riders" and "Boomers" in 1908[74]
Oklahoma City Stars, formerly "Goldbugs" prior to 1946 and the "Chiefs" thereafter[75]
Oklahoma State Cowboys and Cowgirls — Oklahoma A&M used the nickname of the "Agriculturalists" in the 1890s, which was shortened to "Aggies" and "Farmers". "Tigers" was briefly used as well, but proved unpopular. In 1924, the media began referring to the teams as the "Cowboys" and it was later officially adopted.[76]
Ole Miss Rebels, changed from the "Flood" in 1935 because of the negative association with natural disasters, most notably the 1927 flood that devastated the state's Delta region.[77]
Omaha Mavericks, adopted in the summer of 1971, previously known as "Indians" from 1939 to 1971 and "Cardinals" before 1939.
Oral Roberts Golden Eagles, formerly the "Titans"
Oregon Ducks, formerly the "Webfoots." "Ducks" introduced in the 1940s and nicknames were used interchangeably until the 1970s; "Ducks" officially adopted in 1978.[78][79]
Oregon State Beavers, previously known as the "Aggies" and then the "Orangemen". The yearbook was named The Beaver in 1916, which later led to the athletics teams' adoption of the nickname.[80]
Pacific Lutheran Lutes, formerly the "Gladiators"
Presbyterian Blue Hose — Officially changed from "Blue Stockings" c. 1954, though sportswriters had used "Hose" interchangeably with "Stockings" since the turn of the 20th century.[81]
Quinnipiac Bobcats, changed from the "Braves" in 2002
RPI Engineers, formerly the "Bachelors" and, from 1995 to 2009, the "Red Hawks"
Richmond Spiders, changed from the "Colts" in 1894.[82]
Rio Grande RedStorm, changed from the "Redmen" and "Redwomen" in 2008.
Ripon Red Hawks, changed from "Redmen" in 1994[83][84]
Rutgers Scarlet Knights, changed from the "Queensmen" in 1955[85]
St. Bonaventure Bonnies, changed from the "Brown Indians" and "Brown Squaws" in 1979
St. John's Red Storm, changed from the "Redmen" in 1995 for gender and cultural considerations. The university claims the old name did not refer to American Indians, but to the school color, a bright cardinal red.
Saint Leo Lions, formerly the "Monarchs"
Saint Mary's Cardinals, changed from "Redmen" during the 1989–90 season
San Diego State Aztecs, replaced the "Staters" and "Professors" in 1925[86]
San Jose State Spartans, adopted in 1925; prior nicknames included the "Daniels", the "Teachers", the "Pedagogues", the "Normals", and the "Normalites"
Santa Clara Broncos, adopted in 1923; prior nicknames included the "Missionites", the "Prunepickers", the "Friars", the "Missions", and the "Padres"[87] The school changed its name from the "University of Santa Clara" to "Santa Clara University" in 1985.[88]
Seattle Redhawks, formerly the "Chieftains"
Seton Hill Griffins, formerly the "Spirit"
Simpson Storm, changed from the "Redmen and Lady Reds" in 1992
Sioux Falls Cougars, changed from "Braves" in 1978[89]
Sonoma State Seawolves, changed from "Cossacks" in 1978
Southeast Missouri State Redhawks, known as the "Indians" and "Otahkians" before 2004[90]
Southeastern Oklahoma State Savage Storm, changed from "Savages" in 2006
Southeastern Fire, formerly the "Crusaders"
South Florida Bulls, shortened from "Brahman Bulls" in the mid-1980s[91]
Southern Miss Golden Eagles, adopted in 1972, the school had several previous nicknames,[92] including "Normalites", "Yellow Jackets", "Confederates", and "Southerners"
Southwestern Christian Eagles, formerly the "Moundbuilders"
Southern Illinois Salukis, formerly known at the "Maroons" from 1913 to 1951[93]
Southern Nazarene Crimson Storm, formerly the "Redskins"
Spalding Golden Eagles, formerly the "Pelicans"
Springfield Pride, changed from "Chiefs" in 1996[94]
Susquehanna River Hawks, changed from "Crusaders" in 2016[95]
Stanford Cardinal, adopted in 1981, formerly known as the "Indians" (1930–1972) and the plural "Cardinals" (1972–1981)[96]
Stonehill Skyhawks, changed from the "Chieftains"
Stony Brook Seawolves, adopted in 1994; previously known as "Soundmen" or "Baymen" (1950s), Warriors (1960–1966), and "Patriots"/"Lady Patriots" (1966–1994)[97]
SUNY Canton Kangaroos, formerly the "Northmen" and "Northstars"
Syracuse Orange, changed from the "Orangemen" and "Orangewomen" in 2004
Tennessee at Chattanooga Mocs, changed from Moccasins in 1997.
Texas Tech Red Raiders, changed from "Matadors" (1925–1932), which had been inspired by the campus's Spanish architecture.[98]
Toledo Rockets, adopted in 1923 by sportswriters who shortened it from "Skyrockets", coined by a student in the press box for a football game. Writers had previously called the football team the "Blue and Gold" and "Munies".[99]
Troy Trojans, reverted from "Red Wave" in 1973. Troy had been known as first the Bulldogs" and then the "Teachers" between 1909 and 1920, the "Trojans" from 1920 to 1931, and the "Red Wave" from 1931 to 1973.[100]
Tulane Green Wave, known as the "Olive and Blue" from 1893 to 1919, and referred to as the "Greenbacks" by the student-run The Tulane Weekly in 1919. Became known as the "Green Wave" from 1920 after the song "The Rolling Green Wave" published in the Tulane Hullabaloo.[101]
Tulsa Golden Hurricane, adopted in 1922, formerly known as the "Orange and Black", "Kendallites", "Presbyterians", "Tigers", "Tulsans", and "Yellow Jackets".[102]
UCLA Bruins, adopted in 1928, formerly known as the "Cubs" until 1923, in reference to the school's connection to the University of California Golden Bears. Known as the "Grizzlies" from 1923 until 1928, when UCLA joined the Pacific Coast Conference, which already included the Montana Grizzlies.[103]
UC Santa Barbara Gauchos, changed in 1936 from Roadrunners. Football coach Theodore "Spud" Harder requested a new name when he took over in 1934. A student vote settled on "Gauchos" in 1936, based on the 1927 film The Gaucho[104])
UC Santa Cruz Banana Slugs, changed in 1986 by student referendum from "Sea Lions", which had been used since the school began sponsoring NCAA athletics in 1981.[105]
UConn Huskies, officially adopted as the nickname in 1934; they had previous been unofficially known as the "Aggies" and the "Statesmen".[106] "UConn", long used as a short form for the school's formal name of "University of Connecticut", became the official athletic brand in 2013–14.
UMass Minutemen, changed from the "Redmen" and "Redwomen" in 1972. According to the university, the old nickname referred to the uniforms worn by the athletic teams, but it was changed nonetheless out of sensitivity to American Indians.
USC Trojans, replaced the "Methodists" and "Wesleyans" in 1912[107]
USP Devils, formerly the "Red Devils"
UT Martin Skyhawks, changed from "Pacers" in 1995
Utah Utes, formerly used "Redskins" nickname simultaneously with "Utes" nickname but discontinued using "Redskins" in 1972[108]
UVA–Wise Cavaliers – Formerly nicknamed "Highland Cavaliers"; dropped "Highland" in 2017.
VCU Rams – The "Rams" nickname was inherited from Richmond Professional Institute, one of the two institutions that merged in 1968 to form the current Virginia Commonwealth University. From 1948 to 1963, RPI's nickname was "Green Devils", reflecting the school's affiliation with The College of William & Mary. RPI and several other institutions were separated from W&M in 1962, and RPI adopted "Rams" a year later.
Virginia Tech Hokies, gradually transitioned from the original nickname of the "Fighting Gobblers"
Washington Huskies, adopted February 3, 1922; formerly the "Sun Dodgers" (1919–1921) and very briefly the "Vikings" in December 1921[109]
Wayne State Warriors, known as the "Tartars" from 1927 to 1999
Western Michigan Broncos, changed from "Hilltoppers" in 1939
Westminster Griffins, formerly the "Parsons"
Wheaton Thunder, changed from "Crusaders" in 2000[110]
Widener Pride, changed from "Pioneers" in 2006
William & Mary Tribe, formerly the "Indians" (1917–1977) and "Orange and White" (1893–1916)

[valpopal]

I think the survey was simply an exercise to provide cover for the administration when it decided to announce (the preordained) decision to jettison the Crusader name.  Similarly, I suspect the decision was announced by the Interim President in order to provide cover for the incoming President ("Hey, the decision was made before I officially assumed the office of the President").  I don't believe for a second that this decision was not blessed by the new President. 

This unwise move by the University has made the work of our Athletics Department employees, every one of whom is a fine person, that much harder.

Paul

Quote from: valpopal on January 12, 2021, 06:33:18 PMHave others received an email from the university sent to the Valpo community with a survey to complete about calls for removing the Crusader mascot and nickname? The survey certainly exhibits a lack of objectivity or neutrality. Given the introduction to the survey and the wording or options in some of the questions, it clearly appears the intent is to dispose of the Crusader. For example, one question asks if you consider yourself "a Valpo person" or "a Crusader"; however, you cannot be both.


As noted at the time of the survey, it was deceptively designed to obtain a specific end, forcing respondents to choose between "a Valpo person" or "a Crusader," but not allowing both. Apparently, the Chicago Tribune has seen some results of the survey, and the leaked information is that the push poll questions got the results VU wanted: "Neither the email nor a university press release on the decision discloses whether the task force produced a report on its findings and recommendations, or whether Valparaiso will publish the 7,700 survey responses in some form. Its website does not bring up such materials in a search for 'crusader task force.' The Chicago Tribune has apparently seen at least some survey results, reporting that more than 80 percent of responses 'identified Valparaiso as the university's dominant brand,' with the Crusader drawing only 2.5 percent." https://www.thecollegefix.com/christian-university-ditches-crusader-mascot-because-of-association-with-hate-groups/

[vu72]

Wait...So we aren't the only school to make a change?  Shocking.

Some of those changes are hysterical but the one that caught my eye was Akron, changing from "The Zippers" to the "Zips"   

[mj]

Apparently, the Chicago Tribune has seen some results of the survey, and the leaked information is that the push poll questions got the results VU wanted: "Neither the email nor a university press release on the decision discloses whether the task force produced a report on its findings and recommendations, or whether Valparaiso will publish the 7,700 survey responses in some form. Its website does not bring up such materials in a search for 'crusader task force.' The Chicago Tribune has apparently seen at least some survey results, reporting that more than 80 percent of responses 'identified Valparaiso as the university's dominant brand,' with the Crusader drawing only 2.5 percent."

They certainly aren't doing themselves any favors by leaking info to the press but not releasing the survey results.

[hailcrusaders]

JD24 - how was my response offensive?

I imagine he was making a self-deprecating joke

[VALPO LI]

Change is hard.  Removing the symbol of our university and allowing it to come between fans and how we define ourselves is difficult.  We have seen numerous institutions go down this same road before us as listed below.  The allegiance to our mighty Crusader must now live on in our hearts and memories.  For some it will be difficult to let go others will welcome a fresh start with a new identity.  As long as we stick together Valpo will be fine!

[usc4valpo]

when getting rid of the mascot, you may have to get rid of the shield logo. If so, not you need to hire a consulting company who know how develop and get agreement a logo and the mascot. If you want to do it, you cannot do it internally. That is huge dollars!!!! Guess we will see if it is worth it.

[vu72]

when getting rid of the mascot, you may have to get rid of the shield logo. If so, not you need to hire a consulting company who know how develop and get agreement a logo and the mascot. If you want to do it, you cannot do it internally. That is huge dollars!!!! Guess we will see if it is worth it.

They spent a bunch developing the Shield when Heckler took over.  They just have to find a way to justify keeping the Shield otherwise I will lose my mind.

[vu72]

I've got it!  Seriously, why not change the name to then "Golden Knights"?  Central Florida are the Black Knights I think and Rutgers also are Knights.  Nothing needs to change, we could even keep the current mascot uniform.  Could it possibly be that simple?

[EddieCabot]

https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/1359903254147129344

Now I'm confused. Is "retiring the Crusader mascot over the coming months" the same as "changing the Crusader nickname?" If it is, it's certainly a strange way of saying it. The Crusader mascot and the Crusader nickname are related but different. The mascot is a symbol. There are examples where universities changed their mascot but retained their nickname.

Good question.  Illinois eliminated their mascot Chief Illiniwek but kept the nickname Illini.

[VALPO LI]

I heard that there is discussion that University of Illinois will become the "Belted Kingfisher"
https://dailyillini.com/news/2020/09/22/university-senate-endorses-kingfisher-mascot-in-landslide-vote/

[valpo64]

I am fed up with this academic , holier than thou attitude.  This change is ridiculous, especially at a time when money and finances are a problem.  These type of changes do not come cheap.  It is about time somebody had some balls to talk back against some of this re-do everything attitude of a few self-proclaimed do-gooders. Poor little kids..did somebody get offended?  Awww...we are so sorry.  Interim or permanent  President, this thing stinks.  And someone had the guts to send out a survey to cover their fannies on the change.  And as has been stated earlier, we will never see the actual results.  Come on Valpo, I thought we were better than this.

[vu84v2]

I found these comments in the Northwest Indiana Times to be quite interesting. Obviously, Adam is in a unique position to comment in that he is: a national figure, a Muslim, an alum who passionately supports Valpo, and someone with a close association with Valpo sports.

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Valparaiso alum and Chicago Bulls television play-by-play announcer Adam Amin is Muslim and he got his broadcasting career started by calling games for the Crusaders when he attended Valparaiso from 2005-09. He later worked for the university and called basketball games on the Horizon League Network before moving to ESPN and Fox Sports.

"I had a positive reaction to the news today, but then I had to ask myself why I had that reaction," Amin said. "When I signed up to go to Valpo, I knew what the mascot was. I also knew what the Crusades were and I was well aware of the history involved. I didn't think this university chose the mascot, goofy looking as it was, out of some level of malice.

"What I think now, observing the reaction that everyone is having, is it all depends on how important symbolism is to you. If the university is what it is because of the people that work there and the students that go there, then what does it matter what the mascot is? If the symbol that happens to represent the university makes people feel some sort of negative cognition, then change it. What's the problem with changing it?"

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I am hopeful that people across the spectrum of views remember the words highlighted in bold.