Mascot search nears end
Nearly a year after beginning the process of selecting a new Jackrabbit, the mascot selction committee narrows choices down.
Brittany Westerberg
Issue date: 9/5/07 Section: News
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After mixed reactions following the release of the three prospective designs from Phoenix Design Works, the New York City firm hired by the Jackrabbit mascot redesign committee, the committee decided to open the contest to the public and accept designs from anyone who wanted to enter one. A $1,000 reward was offered for the design that was chosen by a panel of judges at the college.
According to University Relations Director Jenny Crickard, the committee received between 250 to 260 entries. "There has been a lot of interest," she said. The entries came from all over the country, from states such as South Carolina, Colorado and Washington, as well as from South Dakota. They even received entries from as far away as Germany, and those who submitted designs ranged from a 14-year-old to an 89-year-old alumnus.
Many of the entries were from SDSU graduates. "This shows a lot of school spirit and passion from alumni," Crickard said.
The committee narrowed the choices down to four or five prospective designs and sent them back to their artists for modifications, due back during the second week in August. The committee set up some focus groups for the week of August 20 in the Sioux Falls, Pierre and Rapid City areas to get feedback from students and interested parties from all over the state.
"The focus groups went very well," said Students' Association President Alex Brown. However, there wasn't as much student input as the committee had wanted, so Brown has been asked to set up more focus groups for the second week of school. Any students who want to be part of the focus groups will be able to sign up.
The committee will take a look at the conclusions these focus groups reach and then make a recommendation. "We're looking to get it done as soon as possible," Brown said.
"We're hoping to get it completed by the end of September," Crickard said. "Overall, we have some good designs. They're very different, and range from classic to abstract."
Viewing Comments 1 - 7 of 8
Duke, SDSU Class of 83
posted 9/06/07 @ 5:59 PM CST
One must remember that people usually resist change. So, there will always be a certain amount of "mixed reviews" regarding any change to the appearance of our mascot. (Continued…)
Jackfan
posted 9/11/07 @ 1:16 PM CST
I believe that the reason they are changing the mascot is for legal reasons rather than "We are in D-1 now" issues. Of course everyone loves the old logo and it would not be changed if it didn't have to be changed. (Continued…)
HoboJack
posted 9/12/07 @ 6:05 PM CST
Let's not waste anymore time or money! The jackrabbit, we know and love, has now beyond-a-doubt proven that it is truly timeless. The "SD" logo that was worn on the side of the Jacks football helmets - in what will be remembered as State's monumental, groundbreaking football squad (as we ventured into Division I) - is innovative, bold and representative of what is now 'South Dakota's' team. (Continued…)
Andrea (Bergan) Cleland
posted 10/19/07 @ 10:25 PM CST
Why the change anyway? Is there a legal reason?
If not, then leave it alone! We love "Our Jackrabbit" just the way it is and has been. Change is not about changing just because. (Continued…)
73Jack
posted 10/20/07 @ 9:52 AM CST
I will admit to liking the "SD" and the Rabbit just as they are, but I did understand the need for change a little more after seeing the logos of the other schools in the Summit League. (Continued…)
Jack(ie) 08
Jack(ie) 08
posted 10/24/07 @ 9:16 AM CST
I have spoken to many students and alumni and there's a consensus that SDSU should check into the legal issues behind our mascot. There's a good chance that there isn't even a problem at all. (Continued…)
MisterFeeny
posted 2/25/08 @ 11:02 AM CST
Design contests are always set up to pay out a designer terribly. And more often than not for work that deserves much more compensation. God forbid we get what we deserve. (Continued…)
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