Basketball

Kent State University's Golden Flashes have a new mascot to represent them on court and field - a live golden eagle. Kathy Stafford, vice president for university relations, told KSU's employee newsletter that the golden eagle was a natural for that as they ''have tremendous vision, soar to amazing heights and always reach for the highest goals,'' just like KSU faculty and staff.


''You could tell from the crowd reaction that it was a great thing,'' said Alan Ashby, director of athletic communications for Kent State. ''I was shocked, honestly, at how large the bird was. It's a big, strong, powerful symbol of what we are". She said the golden eagle also can help to elevate the public's appreciation of the natural world: ''She is a powerful ambassador who can help to deliver our message that will benefit thousands of other wild animals.''

Baseball

The Pirate Parrot is the mascot of the Pittsburgh Pirates, debuting in 1979. He is a large green parrot who wears a Pirates jersey and cap. The character of a parrot was derived from the classic story Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson, most notably the one owned by Long John Silver named "Captain Flint".

Soccer

The Rapids kicked off the new tradition in their mascot department on Independence Day with their newest mascot being the symbol of the USA, the American bald eagle! Adding to the importance of honoring this sacred bird is the fact that the week Edson was introduced, the bald eagle had been taken off the endangered species list for the first time in 40 years!



The Rapids chose Edson because he symbolizes courage, freedom, spirit and the pursuit of excellence. His official birthdate is July 4, and he was released in front of the Rapids' faithful after being delivered to the stadium in an official van straight from the Rocky Mountain Arsenal Wildlife Refuge.