Who's That Masked Cat? The University of Houston's Mascot Mystery
So, you're curious about the University of Houston's mascot, huh? Well, buckle up, because we're about to dive into the wild world of college mascots. Let's get one thing straight: there's no boring stuff here.
The Cougar Chronicles
Now, you might be thinking, "A cougar? Really? Isn't that a bit... wild for a mascot?" And you'd be absolutely right! But hey, who wants a boring old eagle or bear, right? The University of Houston decided to go for something a bit more purr-fect.
The cougar, or more specifically, Shasta, is the name given to both the live cougar mascot (yes, you read that right!) and the costumed character that represents the university's spirit. It's like having a real-life superhero and a cuddly costume buddy all in one!
Shasta: The Cougar with Nine Lives (Okay, Maybe Not That Many)
Shasta isn't just any ordinary cougar. Oh no, this cat has a history! There have been multiple Shasta's over the years, each one leaving its own paw print on the university's legacy. From the original Shasta, who lost a toe in a rather unfortunate cage incident (don't worry, it grew back!), to the current Shasta, who probably spends most of its time napping and dreaming of chasing squirrels.
How to Become a Cougar Fanatic
Okay, so you're convinced that the University of Houston has the coolest mascot ever. But how do you become a true-blue Cougar fan? Fear not, aspiring cougar enthusiasts! Here are a few tips to get you started:
- Wear Cougar Gear: Show your support by rocking some UH apparel. From t-shirts to hats, there's something for everyone.
- Attend Games: There's nothing quite like the electric atmosphere of a college basketball or football game. So grab your friends and cheer on the Cougars!
- Learn the Traditions: Every good fan knows the traditions. From the Cougar Fight Song to the infamous "claw" gesture, immerse yourself in the UH culture.
- Follow the Team: Stay up-to-date on the latest news, scores, and player highlights. You'll be the envy of your friends with your Cougar knowledge.
- Embrace the Spirit: Most importantly, embrace the spirit of the University of Houston. It's about more than just sports; it's about being part of a community.
How-To FAQs
- How to become a Shasta mascot: Unfortunately, becoming Shasta is not as easy as putting on a costume. The university has a rigorous selection process for mascot performers.
- How to get Cougar tickets: Tickets can usually be purchased through the university's athletics department or online ticket retailers.
- How to learn the Cougar Fight Song: There are plenty of resources online, including videos and sheet music, to help you learn the fight song.
- How to do the Cougar claw: The claw is a simple hand gesture that involves extending your index and pinky fingers while curling the middle and ring fingers.
- How to show your Cougar pride: Wear your Cougar gear, attend games, learn the traditions, follow the team, and most importantly, embrace the spirit of the university.
So there you have it! The University of Houston's mascot is not just a cat; it's a symbol of school spirit, tradition, and a whole lot of fun. Go Cougars!
