Rooney (mascot)

Rooney is the costumed hawk mascot of Roanoke Maroons in Salem, Virginia. Officially, Rooney is considered a "Maroon-tailed Hawk" which is "indigenous" to the Salem, Virginia area.

Rooney
UniversityRoanoke College
ConferenceOld Dominion Athletic Conference
DescriptionAnthropomorphic hawk
Origin of nameRoanoke Maroons
First seen2009

Mascot history

Rooney was created in 2009 after the submission of more than 350 suggestions by students, alumni, faculty, staff and friends of the College. From these suggestions, officials narrowed the options to six. These officials consisted of two groups: the Mascot Team, composed of various students, administrators, and alumni, and a professional company who works with mascots and logos. Public comment was also critical in creating the mascot as the process continued.[1]

In 2017, a generous donation to the college lead to the creation of a 14-foot-tall Rooney topiary that stands in near Kerr Stadium and a student residence hall.[2]

Ever since Roanoke decided upon Rooney as the mascot in 2009, students who have portrayed the bird will wear the costume's feet at graduation to reveal their identity to other students and faculty members.[3]

Historically, Roanoke College has been known as the Maroons and officials ensured that this will not change due to Rooney's creation.

References
  1. "Rooney, Roanoke College's Maroon Mascot | Roanoke College". www.roanoke.edu.
  2. "Rooney Topiary stands guard over Maroon Athletic Quad | Roanoke College". www.roanoke.edu.
  3. "Rooney". www.roanoke.edu.

Roanoke College

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