Go Bears! Go Bears!
“Deep in the Heart of Texas” – or Waco, Texas, for those unfamiliar with the Lone Star State – students at Baylor University agree that everything is bigger, including their sports programs. Officially established in 1845 by Republic President Anson Jones, Baylor University participates in 17 varsity sports and enjoys a history of many significant accomplishments. In addition to the school’s football squad appearing in 23 bowl games, Baylor’s track and field division are recognized for producing several successful United States Olympians.
Bruiser the Bear for Baylor University
Aside from serving as a symbol for the university, the American black bear helps Baylor promote awareness for this essential wildlife furball. In 1914, students on campus voted to have the bear represent the school as their official mascot. Since then, Baylor has utilized the bear to spread school spirit across campus while rockin’ the green and gold. (Baylor’s official colors).
The university currently has two American black bears residing at the Bill & Eva Williams Bear Habitat located on campus. Judge Joy Reynolds, or “Joy,” and Judge Sue Sloan, “Lady,” are two biological bear sisters that encompass the heart and soul of Baylor University. They can be found playing with each other throughout the day near their “den” on university grounds. While these ladies are cute, it would be a little inappropriate to bring a nearly 300-pound bear to a home sporting game – this is where Bruiser the Bear comes in.
Bruiser the Bear is the school’s costumed mascot and can be found pumping up fans in attendance at most sporting events, pep rallies, and community events year-round! The spirit squad members under the bear suit consist of seven students who train at least twice a week – ensuring a mentally and physically healthy mascot to fan the flames of fandom.
BAY-LOR! BEARS! BAY-LOR! BEARS! Before joining Bruiser and the rest of the spirit squad at Baylor’s next home game, be sure to come prepared in the latest green and gold swag. Head over to Fanatics.com today and get ready to “Sic ’Em Bears!”
Sources
- https://www2.baylor.edu/baylorproud/2016/08/baylors-history-of-olympic-excellence/
- http://www.baylorbears.com/
- http://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/baylor/
- http://www.baylor.edu/about/?id=88778
- http://www.baylor.edu/licensing/index.php?id=50497
- http://www.baylor.edu/bear/index.php?id=18243
- http://www.baylorbears.com/ot/spirit-squad-mascots.html
