The Facts:
The University has had three live mascots in the past; the last of which, Lobo III, was actually a coyote.
Our Opinion:
A live mascot is an excellent idea for a University in desperate need of something to cheer about on the court and field. Student Government must ensure, though, that the wolf-like dog would be well cared for and students approve of this allocation of student fee money.
In years gone by, the American Red Wolf was a dominant feature of the southeastern United States. The packs occupied large swaths of pre-industrial North Carolina and are the namesake for the University’s Wolfpack. The name “Wolfpack” itself was derived from a letter to the editor in 1921, which spoke to the off-field antics and unstable coaching of the football team — like a pack of wolves.
In the past, the University kept two wolves — Lobo I and II — and a coyote — Lobo III — to serve as living mascots. Unfortunately, the tradition died more than 30 years ago and has not been revived.
A plan under consideration by Student Government would bring a new living mascot — presumably Lobo IV — to the University. In lieu of actual red wolves, which are considered critically endangered and would be unfeasible to handle, the arrangement would involve Student Government purchasing a Tamaskan dog and bringing it to campus.
The Tamaskan, which is a very wolf-like looking breed, would supplement Mr. and Mrs. Wuf, adding another component to the University’s Wolfpack.
The idea would bring back an old tradition and would doubtlessly excite students in the pre-game festivities before major athletic events.
The only concern is whether the dog would be properly cared for. A proud emblem for the University should not sit in a cage at the Vet school or be relegated to a life with any sort of poor care.
Likewise, the funding for the wolf-like dog would come from student fees by way of Student Government. Most students would likely support the idea, especially considering the seemingly low costs, but Student Government should still let students vote on the proposal with its expected costs in a referendum.
The care is the primary concern, though, and Student Government must have set plans before the living mascot can be considered. The concerns of housing, care taking and funding must all be addressed before it can move forward.
Otherwise, the concept of Lobo IV is solid and would help build dwindling school spirit concerning athletics.