Although the program has only been playing football since 2009, the South Alabama Jaguars mascot has a history that goes back much further than that. As the Jaguars feast on their college football opposition, there’s no better time to pounce on the history books to discover the tradition behind the South Alabama mascot.
Who (or What) is the South Alabama Jaguars Mascot?
What’s better than one college football mascot? How about two? South Alabama has two mascots, “South Paw” and “Miss Pawla”. The costumed Jaguars have been prowling the sidelines of Ladd-Peebles and Hancock Whitney Stadiums since the football program began in 2009.
“South Paw” was the original costumed Jaguars mascot, first appearing as a nameless paper mache head in 1971. The following year, the South Alabama mascot took on a new form — a fur hat and body combination worn first by Donnie Butler.
The Jaguars mascot got its name in the late 1970s, and in 1986, “South Paw” had a full rebrand featuring a soft jaguar head on top of a body covered in the uniform in the program’s distinctive red and white colors.
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In 1992, “South Paw” got a mate.
Described as “ever-flirtatious and mischievous” by the university, “Miss Pawla” is often seen clad in what can only be described as a cheerleader outfit, complete with a red and white bow on her head.
In addition to their appearances at South Alabama sporting events, the Jaguars mascot duo have long been a presence at community events in and around Mobile.
Does South Alabama Have a Live Jaguar Mascot?
No, at least not anymore. “South Paw” and “Miss Pawla” form the Jaguars’ mascots. However, this hasn’t always been the case.
In 1968, the university was given a South American Jaguar by a Baton Rouge civil engineer named Toxie Craft. In Jan. 1969, the new Jaguars mascot was given the name “Mischka” following a contest between students and staff of the university.
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However, “Mischka” didn’t last long as the Jaguars’ mascot. After someone had left the door to her pen unlocked, she took a tour of the South Alabama campus.
It was decided soon after that it might not be the greatest idea to have a live animal prowling the university, while it was also reported that the well-being of the animal played a role in the decision to no longer use a live animal mascot.
Why Is South Alabama’s Mascot the Jaguars?
South Alabama has been known as the Jaguars since 1965, following a decision by the board of trustees to select the animal as the school’s mascot. It is said that the jaguar symbolizes the courage and spirit of the university’s students and alumni.
Upon the unveiling of a jaguar sculpture outside the Mitchell Center — the home of South Alabama basketball — in 2001, this symbolism was further reinforced with the description of the animal’s “strength of character, physical power, and bravery.”
