In 1925, Ohio University sought a unified nickname for its athletic teams. A campus-wide contest resulted in the selection of the “Bobcat,” which represents the animal’s sly, wily, and scrappy character. This decision overtook multiple informal references such as “Green and White” and “the Ohio Eleven,” adding coherence to the university’s sporting identity.
From “Mr. Bobcat” to Rufus: The Evolution of Ohio University’s Beloved Mascot
The Bobcat mascot debuted during the 1960 Homecoming game against Miami University. Thomas Schantz designed the costume, which included a brilliant green and white coat and a papier-mache skull.
A Lincoln Hall resident, Dan Nichols, was the first student to wear the outfit, beginning a decades-long tradition.
By the early 2000s, the Bobcat mascot’s appearance had grown dated. In 2006, Ohio University announced a new mascot called “Rufus,” which was chosen through a campus-wide contest. The name honors both the bobcat species, Lynx Rufus, and Rufus Putnam, a founding trustee of the institution.
Rufus is no longer merely a cheerleader on the sidelines. In 2010, Rufus made headlines for an unexpected reason. During a football game versus Ohio State University, the student in the Rufus costume tackled OSU’s mascot, Brutus Buckeye, as the Buckeyes entered the field.
The incident went viral, sparking a national conversation about mascot conduct and sportsmanship.
Rufus has become a prominent fixture at Ohio University events, representing school enthusiasm and unity. Rufus, who led the football team onto the field and participated in community events, is still a beloved symbol among students, alumni, and fans.
Rufus is more than a costume; he represents a legacy of pride, tradition, and metamorphosis. He is a living, dancing, high-fiving example of what it means to be a Bobcat.
Also Read: History of the TCU Horned Frogs Mascot
Ohio University’s mascot has evolved significantly from a papier mache head in 1960 to an intergalactic traveler in 2018. Rufus is more than just a face in the crowd; he is a legacy, a cheerleader, a comedian, a symbol of perseverance, and, most importantly, the soul of Bobcat Nation.
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