The University of Mississippi Athletics
Finalists, Polling Announced For Mascot Contest
10/7/2003 | Athletics
Oct. 7, 2003
OXFORD, Miss. - The University of Mississippi's effort to develop a new look for its mascot moves into the fourth quarter today with the announcement of two finalists.
After consulting with the Committee on Intercollegiate Athletics, university officials have released two designs, tentatively named "Rebel Bruiser" and "Rowdy Rebel." All UM students, faculty, staff, active members of the Alumni Association, Loyalty Foundation members and season ticket holders are invited to register their preferences in an online poll.
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A contest to select a new mascot design ended late last month without producing an image that the Committee could enthusiastically support. University officials asked three artists to modify their designs - two from the contest and one new image - and resubmit them for consideration. The Rebel Bruiser and Rowdy Rebel designs were chosen from the redesigns.
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"From the beginning, we were looking for a stronger, tougher and more athletic look," said Athletics Director Pete Boone."Both of these accomplish that goal."
The images will be available at the secure Web site www.olemiss.edu/athletics/poll.html beginning at 9 a.m. Wednesday. The online poll will remain open through midnight Sunday, Oct. 12. UM constituents alone may register their preferences after entering identifying information and are limited to one response apiece.
A winner will be selected after the Committee on Intercollegiate Athletics reviews the poll results. The new design becomes the Rebels' on-field mascot and will be a registered trademark, used in a variety of formats including printed materials, merchandise, clothing, banners and electronic presentations.
