Football History

Tucked away in Boone, North Carolina, is the successful football program of Appalachian State University. The team has made the students, faculty, alums, and fans proud to support them at home and away games. App State has an excellent tradition of quality pigskin play and is a perennial contender for their respective conference title and sometimes even a post-season bowl game.

On the following pages, we will cover:

-The Program's Origin

-The Biggest Games in School History

-The Program's Top Players

-The Program's Most Significant Coaches

-The Program's Logo and Mascot History

-The Teamm's Helmet Designs Over Time

-and so much more

Learn more Gridiron history of the team on this page!

We came across a few stories of students on both sides of a University of Texas and Texas A&M Rivalry that each tried to one-up the other through the team mascots.

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The Lafayette Leopards have a unique and recognizable school nickname. Where would a school in Eastern Pennsylvania garner such a name as Leopard though?

According to the school's website, the name was first used on campus when Lafayette sports editor George Parkman referred to the team as the 'Leopards' on October 7, 1927. Parkman noticed that other competitors were selecting animal nicknames and decided Lafayette should have one. NCAAF Nickname 1

The principal theme of this podcast episode revolves around a profound exploration of Arkansas Razorback football history, accompanied by insights from our esteemed guest, Rod Lovan. We delve into the evolution of the Razorbacks from their inception in 1894, initially known as the Cardinals, to their rebranding that immortalized their identity as the formidable Razorbacks. The discussion further illuminates the rich tapestry of memories associated with Arkansas football, highlighting significant players and coaches who have indelibly shaped the program's legacy. Additionally, Rod shares his journey and the genesis of his successful venture, Sterling Soap, which specializes in artisanal shaving products. Throughout our conversation, we celebrate the storied past of Razorback football and the enduring spirit of community and entrepreneurship that defines the state of Arkansas.

-How Arkansas Became the Razorbacks

The year was 1909. The University of Arkansas football team, clad in their cardinal and white, had just finished a grueling game against LSU. They’d fought tooth and nail, clawing their way to a hard-earned victory. Their coach, Hugo Bezdek, was beaming with pride. As he surveyed his victorious team, covered in mud and sweat but eyes shining with triumph, he couldn't help but exclaim, "You guys fought like a wild band of razorback hogs out there!"

Now, the razorback hog wasn't your average farm pig. It was a fierce, wiry, and tenacious creature native to the wilds of Arkansas. Known for its scrappy nature and never-give-up attitude, it symbolized strength and resilience. Bezdek's comparison resonated deeply with the players and the fans alike. It perfectly captured the spirit they had displayed on the field that day.

The nickname "Razorbacks" spread like wildfire. It was a far cry from the somewhat tame "Cardinals" they'd been known as before. "Cardinals" were nice, but "Razorbacks" were powerful. They were untamed. They were Arkansas!

The following year, 1910, the students of the University of Arkansas held a vote. Should they stick with the Cardinals or embrace this exciting new identity? The result was decisive. The Razorbacks were in! The fierce wild hog became the official mascot, replacing the more docile bird. And so, the Arkansas Razorbacks were born, a name that continues to embody the grit and determination of the university's athletes to this very day.

-Podcast Chat with Rod Lovan

An engaging discourse on the entrepreneurial spirit of Rod Lovan unfolds as he shares the genesis of his venture, Stirling Soap. This episode segment seamlessly transitions from the realm of sports to the realm of business, illustrating how Rod’s passion for traditional wet shaving dovetails with his commitment to quality craftsmanship. The narrative reveals the challenges and triumphs of establishing a brand that caters to shaving enthusiasts and embodies the essence of Arkansas pride. Rod elaborates on the journey from humble beginnings—making soap as a hobby—to creating a thriving enterprise that employs multiple individuals in the community. This discussion serves as a microcosm of the broader American dream, showcasing how innovation and dedication can lead to substantial achievements. The episode concludes with a reflection on the importance of community support in both sports and business, emphasizing the interconnectedness of local culture and entrepreneurial success.

The moniker "Green Wave," synonymous with Tulane University athletics, isn't just a catchy phrase; it's a vibrant reflection of the university's location and the dynamic energy of its teams. The story of how Tulane adopted this unique nickname is rooted in the physical environment surrounding the campus and the expressive language of sportswriters.

Tulane University is situated in the heart of New Orleans, a city intimately connected to the mighty Mississippi River. The river's constant flow, its powerful currents, and the verdant greenery that lines its banks have long been a source of inspiration for the city's inhabitants. It's this natural imagery that played a crucial role in the naming of Tulane's athletic teams.

Early in Tulane's athletic history, teams were often referred to simply as "the Olive and Blue," the university's official colors. However, as sports journalism evolved, writers sought more colorful and descriptive terms to capture the essence of the games and the teams involved. Given Tulane's location and the imagery associated with the river, the phrase "Green Wave" began to appear in sports reports.

The rolling, surging motion of the Mississippi, combined with the lush greenery of the Louisiana landscape, evoked the image of a powerful, unstoppable wave of green. This metaphorical wave perfectly captured the energy and momentum of Tulane's athletic teams. Sportswriters, always on the lookout for vivid language, seized upon the phrase, and it gradually gained popularity.

Over time, "Green Wave" became more than just a descriptive term; it transformed into an integral part of Tulane's identity. The nickname resonated with students, alumni, and fans, embodying the spirit of the university and its connection to the unique environment of New Orleans. Today, the Green Wave represents not only the athletic teams of Tulane University but also the dynamism, resilience, and vibrant spirit of the institution itself.

The Vanderbilt University Commodores boast a unique nickname with a rich history intertwined with the life of their founder, Cornelius Vanderbilt. Though not a military man himself, Vanderbilt earned the moniker "Commodore" during his early career in shipping.

The story begins in the early 19th century. Young Cornelius, with a thirst for success, started ferrying passengers between Staten Island and Manhattan. His relentless drive and leadership impressed fellow captains, who bestowed upon him the playful title of "Commodore," a naval rank denoting a leader of a squadron of ships. The nickname stuck, becoming synonymous with Vanderbilt's ambition and eventual rise as a shipping and railroad tycoon.

When Vanderbilt established Vanderbilt University in 1873, his influence naturally extended to the university's athletic teams. While the earliest teams lacked a formal mascot, Vanderbilt's legacy as the "Commodore" provided a natural connection. Interestingly, live dogs served as unofficial mascots for a short period before the university settled on a more permanent symbol.

The official Vanderbilt Commodore mascot, a costumed naval officer complete with a traditional uniform and cutlass, first appeared in the 1960s. This visual representation not only honors Cornelius Vanderbilt's nickname but also pays homage to the era when "Commodore" was a prominent naval rank.

The Vanderbilt Commodore moniker transcends mere athletics. It embodies the spirit of perseverance, leadership, and ambition that Cornelius Vanderbilt exemplified. Today, students, faculty, and alumni alike proudly wear the "Commodore" title, a testament to the enduring legacy of the university's founder and the values he instilled.

It was From Humble Beginnings to Roaring Gators: The Birth of a Florida Football Tradition.

The University of Florida, synonymous today with the ferocious roar of the Gator chomping on opponents, wasn't always adorned with orange and blue or represented by a giant, toothy reptile. The story of how the Gators became a symbol of Florida athletics is a tale of chance encounters, student spirit, and a mascot that perfectly embodies the state's unique character.

The early days of Florida athletics were a far cry from the modern era of cheering for the Gators. Established in 1853, the university fielded its first football team in 1906. However, a nickname was curiously absent. Teams were simply referred to as the "Florida eleven" or the "University of Gainesville eleven."

The now-iconic Gator connection can be traced back to a seemingly insignificant event in 1907. Austin Miller, a Gainesville native attending law school at the University of Virginia, was tasked with ordering pennants for his father's store back in Florida. Visiting the Michie Company, a manufacturer of such items, Miller realized Florida lacked an official emblem. Inspired by the presence of mascots for other schools and the abundance of alligators in Florida, Miller suggested the "alligators." The manager, unfamiliar with the creature, approved based on a picture Miller procured from the university library.

Though the initial intent may not have been mascot-related, the alligator quickly gained traction. The pennants bearing the image proved popular, and student publications began referencing the "Florida Gators." This informal adoption resonated with fans and athletes alike. The ferocious nature and resilience of the alligator mirrored the spirit desired in Florida's athletic teams.

The visual representation of the mascot, however, took a more organic path. Unlike some universities with predetermined mascots, the gator gradually permeated the university's identity. Early mentions included references in student publications and the adoption of orange and purple (later changed to gold) as school colors, mirroring the stripes of a tiger (a mistake some believe further fueled the need for a true gator mascot). This unofficial association with the alligator solidified its place as the embodiment of the Florida spirit.

The turning point came in 1936. Inspired by a travelling circus, a group of students, led by athletic trainer Chellis "Mike" Chambers, hatched a daring plan: bring a live gator to campus. Funds were raised from students, a young alligator cub was purchased from a zoo, and he was christened "Sheik." However, recognizing Chambers' pivotal role, the name was soon changed to "Mike," laying the foundation for the now-iconic tradition.

Mike I, as he became known, captivated the hearts of students and fans alike. He served as a living symbol of Florida spirit, attending games and even residing in a makeshift enclosure on campus. Though Mike I tragically passed away in 1956, the legacy of the live gator mascot was firmly established. Subsequent tigers, all named Mike, have continued this tradition, becoming beloved members of the Florida Gators community.

Today, the University of Florida boasts a state-of-the-art habitat for Mike, ensuring his well-being while allowing fans to connect with this unique mascot. From the chance encounter that led to the "alligators" moniker to the arrival of Mike I, the story of the Florida Gators is more than just a mascot adoption. It's a testament to the power of student spirit, the fortuitous alignment with a symbol that embodies the state's natural heritage, and a university's commitment to its mascot's well-being. So, the next time you hear the roar of the Gator chomping down on victory, remember the journey that led this powerful reptile to become a beloved symbol of Florida athletics.

This article delves into the surprising past of Duke University's athletics. Forget knights or crusaders – discover how Duke's teams transformed into the ferocious, rally-igniting Blue Devils. We'll explore the influence of World War I, student newspaper rivalry, and a dash of controversy that led to this now-iconic mascot. So, prepare to be surprised as you uncover the story of how Duke University became the Blue Devils!

Duke University's prestigious reputation may come as a surprise to those who don't know its history. Before the iconic blue devil mascot and sprawling Durham campus, Duke existed as a much smaller institution – Trinity College. Founded in 1838 as a Methodist school named Union Institute, it underwent several transformations. In 1851, it became Normal College, focusing on teacher training. Finally, in 1859, with financial backing from the Methodist Church, it was christened Trinity College, reflecting its Christian mission.

This early Trinity College laid the groundwork for Duke's future success. It emphasized a strong liberal arts education, attracting talented students and faculty. The move to Durham in 1892 and crucial donations from the Duke family in the early 20th century allowed Trinity to expand dramatically. In 1924, it officially became Duke University, honoring the Dukes' generosity and ushering in a new era of academic prominence. While the name changed, the legacy of Trinity's dedication to education continues to be a cornerstone of Duke University's identity.

Louisiana State University (LSU) boasts one of the most unique and beloved mascots in college athletics: Mike, the live tiger. But the story of how LSU adopted the tiger as its mascot goes beyond simply acquiring a majestic predator. It's a tale intertwined with military history, student spirit, and a touch of serendipity.

LSU's athletic teams were initially known as the "LSU Baseball Club" or simply "Old War Skule." However, by the late 19th century, the nickname "Tigers" began to emerge. This wasn't a random choice; it was a tribute to the revered Louisiana Tigers, a group of Confederate military regiments known for their fierce fighting spirit during the American Civil War. In fact, LSUSports.net, (The Nickname: "Fighting Tigers") states that "Arthur W. Bergeron, Jr., PhD. in his the “Guide to Louisiana Confederate Military Units, 1861-1865” (LSU Press, 1989), the name Louisiana Tigers evolved from a volunteer company nicknamed the Tiger Rifles, which was organized in New Orleans." The first University after the US Civil War served in or at least was familiar with the regimen and felt the Tiger moniker was perfect in upholding the tradition and pride of the region, and would represent the school well on the sports fields. The association between these regiments and the qualities desired in LSU athletes - courage, tenacity, and a never-say-die attitude - cemented the connection.

The visual representation of the tiger mascot, however, took a more organic path. Unlike some universities with predetermined mascots, the tiger gradually permeated LSU's identity. Early references included mentions in student publications and the adoption of orange and purple (later changed to gold) as school colors, mirroring the stripes of a tiger. This unofficial association resonated with fans, solidifying the tiger's presence.

The turning point came in 1936. Inspired by a travelling circus, a group of LSU students, led by athletic trainer Chellis "Mike" Chambers, hatched a daring plan: bring a live tiger to campus. They raised funds from students (a quarter from each student which raised the sum of $750), purchased a young tiger cub from a zoo, and named him "Sheik." However, recognizing Chambers' pivotal role, the name was soon changed to "Mike," laying the foundation for the now-iconic tradition.

Mike I, as he became known, captivated the hearts of students and fans alike. He served as a living symbol of LSU spirit, attending games and even residing in a makeshift enclosure on campus. Though Mike I tragically passed away in 1956, the legacy of the live tiger mascot was firmly established. Subsequent tigers, all named Mike, have continued this tradition, becoming beloved members of the LSU community.

The evolution of the Mike the Tiger program reflects a commitment to responsible animal care. Today, Mike resides in a specially designed habitat on campus, ensuring his well-being while allowing fans to connect with this unique mascot.

In conclusion, LSU's adoption of the tiger as its mascot is a story that transcends mere symbolism. It's a testament to the power of student spirit, the enduring legacy of the Louisiana Tigers, and a university's commitment to its mascot's well-being. From the first "Mike" to the current resident, these magnificent creatures have embodied the fighting spirit of the LSU Tigers, leaving an indelible mark on college football history.

The University of Oklahoma's identity is deeply woven with the spirit of the American pioneer and the resilience of its state's founding. This connection is evident in both the adoption of their "Sooners" nickname and the iconic Sooner Schooner mascot.

Early on, OU athletic teams lacked a unifying moniker. They were known as the "Rough Riders" or "Boomers" for a decade. "Boomer" referenced the rapid growth Oklahoma experienced, but it wasn't until 1908 that "Sooner" emerged. This term originated from the Land Run of 1889, where settlers staked claims on unassigned territories before the official starting gun. These individuals, known as "Sooners," embodied a pioneering spirit – ambitious, determined, and perhaps a touch rebellious. The university, embracing the complexity of its heritage, saw this as a fitting representation of its student body and adopted "Sooners" as its official nickname.

For decades, OU lacked a single, consistent mascot. A beloved dog named Mex held the role from 1915 to 1928, followed by an "Indian dancer" named Little Red in the 40s. However, the need for a mascot that transcended individual personalities became clear. 1964 the Sooner Schooner, a Conestoga wagon reminiscent of those used in the Land Run, was introduced. Pulled by a team of white ponies, it symbolized the pioneering spirit that gave the Sooners their name. The Schooner's popularity soared; by 1980, it was officially designated the mascot.

The story doesn't end there. Recognizing the limitations of a non-human mascot for wider representation, the university introduced costumed mascots, Boomer and Sooner, in 2005. These energetic ponies mirrored the Schooner's team and further solidified the connection between mascot and nickname.

Today, the University of Oklahoma's identity is deeply intertwined with the Sooner's moniker and the Sooner Schooner tradition. It's a testament to the university's heritage, celebrating both the pioneers' determination and its students' vibrant spirit.


There is so much more to explore, so check out our other stories of Oklahoma Sooners football history.