How Tulane Became Known as the Green Wave
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.
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.
Arizona Wildcats History of the Mascots
The Arizona Wildcats football program boasts two iconic mascots, Wilbur and Wilma Wildcat, but their journey began with a very real bobcat named Rufus Arizona. Let's rewind a bit and explore the fascinating origin story:
The Original Wildcat (1915):
In 1915, the freshman football team purchased a live bobcat for $9.41 from an army blacksmith. They named him Tom Easter, but the student body soon christened him "Rufus Arizona," after then-university president Rufus B. von KleinSmid.
Rufus became an instant campus celebrity, attending pep rallies, football games, and even leading cheers.
Sadly, Rufus's reign was short-lived. In 1916, while playfully performing acrobatics in a tree, he fell and died a tragic death.
Legacy Lives On (1916-1959):
Despite Rufus's passing, the bobcat mascot had become ingrained in the university's identity. Several successor bobcats took on the mantle, each named Rufus Arizona, carrying the legacy forward.
However, concerns about animal welfare and logistics eventually led to the decision to phase out live mascots.
Enter Wilbur and Wilma (1959-Present):
In 1959, two University of Arizona roommates, Richard Heller and John Paquette, created Wilbur, the costumed wildcat we know today. The head-to-toe fur costume, with an American flag patch and cartoonish features, was an immediate hit.
Wilbur evolved over time, with his design undergoing minor tweaks and his antics becoming more elaborate.
In 1986, Wilbur found his perfect partner, Wilma, completing the dynamic duo. They were even "married" on the field before a football game, solidifying their place as beloved teammates.
The Original Wildcat (1915):
In 1915, the freshman football team purchased a live bobcat for $9.41 from an army blacksmith. They named him Tom Easter, but the student body soon christened him "Rufus Arizona," after then-university president Rufus B. von KleinSmid.
Rufus became an instant campus celebrity, attending pep rallies, football games, and even leading cheers.
Sadly, Rufus's reign was short-lived. In 1916, while playfully performing acrobatics in a tree, he fell and died a tragic death.
Legacy Lives On (1916-1959):
Despite Rufus's passing, the bobcat mascot had become ingrained in the university's identity. Several successor bobcats took on the mantle, each named Rufus Arizona, carrying the legacy forward.
However, concerns about animal welfare and logistics eventually led to the decision to phase out live mascots.
Enter Wilbur and Wilma (1959-Present):
In 1959, two University of Arizona roommates, Richard Heller and John Paquette, created Wilbur, the costumed wildcat we know today. The head-to-toe fur costume, with an American flag patch and cartoonish features, was an immediate hit.
Wilbur evolved over time, with his design undergoing minor tweaks and his antics becoming more elaborate.
In 1986, Wilbur found his perfect partner, Wilma, completing the dynamic duo. They were even "married" on the field before a football game, solidifying their place as beloved teammates.
