Shasta (mascot)
| Shasta | |
|---|---|
Shasta I, ca. 1952
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| University | University of Houston |
| Conference | The American |
| Description | Live/anthropomorphic cougar |
| Origin of name | Student contest |
| First seen | 1947 |
| Related mascot(s) | Sasha |
Shasta is the mascot of the University of Houston athletics teams, the Houston Cougars. The name "Shasta" refers to both a live and an anthropomorphic costumed cougar mascot.
The origin of Shasta dates back to 1927 when John R. Bender, a former head football coach of the Washington State Cougars came to Houston. Because of his fondness for the animal, Bender decided it would be the name of his new teams. Later that year, the school newspaper actively used the name, and other student organizations followed.
In 1946, the cougar was named the official mascot by the University as Houston as it became involved in intercollegiate sports. The next year, the Alpha Phi Omega fraternity raised funds to purchase a live cougar for the university, and held a contest to name it. Among 225 other entries, student Joe Randol won the contest with the following submission: "Shasta (She has to). Shasta have a cage, Shasta have a keeper, Shasta have a winning ball club, Shasta have the best." The first runner-up was "Raguoc" (cougar spelled backwards).
From 1947 until 1989 a live cougar mascot was used. However, from 1989 until 2012, Shasta existed as only a costumed mascot. Although a current live mascot was adopted by the university through a partnership with the Houston Zoo, a costumed student is still used for game appearances.
Shasta I (1947–1962) was the longest serving Shasta. She was purchased in Mexico during the fall semester of 1947 by members of the Alpha Phi Omega fraternity. Student caretakers of Shasta were known as the "Cougar Guard", and were responsible for bringing the cougar to the football team's away games among other activities. Following her service as the University of Houston mascot, she resided at the Houston Zoo.
Shasta II (1962–1965) was the shortest serving Shasta, and was the first to live in "Shasta's Den" (a cage built for her) at the southwest corner of Lynn Eusan Park. It's said that she was retired so soon due to an unruly attitude. She later resided at the Houston Zoo.
Shasta III (1965–1977) was also known as "The Lady". She was featured in several commercials for the American Motors Corporation, but was forced to retire due to poor health.
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