When it comes to college mascots, California is known for some truly unique and bizarre choices. From fruit to mythical creatures, here are seven of the weirdest college mascots in the Golden State.
1. Banana Slugs – University of California, Santa Cruz
The Banana Slug has been the official mascot of UC Santa Cruz since 1986. This slimy and slow-moving creature might not seem like the most intimidating mascot, but it certainly adds a quirky touch to the university’s athletic events.
2. Fighting Artichokes – Scottsdale Community College
Although not located in California, Scottsdale Community College in Arizona has one of the most unusual mascots in college sports – the Fighting Artichokes. The mascot was adopted in the 1970s as a nod to the school’s horticulture program.
3. Anteaters – University of California, Irvine
UC Irvine’s mascot, the Anteater, is certainly a strange choice. The origins of the mascot can be traced back to a student vote in 1965, in which students selected the Anteater over more traditional options like the Golden Bears or the Wildcats.
4. Fighting Okra – Delta State University
Another out-of-state mascot, Delta State University in Mississippi is home to the Fighting Okra. The unique mascot was chosen in 1984 as a way to add some local flavor to the school’s athletics program.
5. Geoducks – Evergreen State College
While technically not in California, the Geoduck mascot of Evergreen State College in Washington is too strange not to include on this list. The geoduck is a large clam native to the Pacific Northwest, and the school has fully embraced its quirky mascot.
6. Tritons – University of California, San Diego
The Triton, a mythical Greek sea god, might not seem too weird on its own. However, UC San Diego takes things a step further by representing the Triton as a blue, amphibious creature with a large trident. It’s certainly a unique take on tradition.
7. Kearny Komodo Dragons – Kearny High School
Located in San Diego, Kearny High School is home to the Kearny Komodo Dragons. This fierce and intimidating mascot was chosen in the early 2000s as a way to instill a sense of pride and unity among the school’s students.
In California, college mascots come in all shapes and sizes. From the slimy Banana Slug to the mythical Triton, each mascot adds its own quirky charm to the school’s identity. Whether you love them or find them a bit strange, these mascots certainly make for interesting conversation starters at games and events.