Why is ASU mascot a devil?

20 marks 75 years since Sparky the Sun Devil was born at ASU. On a clear, sunny day in 1946, Arizona State College track coach Donn Kinzle was on an early morning run along the Salt River bed. A dust devil materialized, swirling and dancing above the sand and rock. At that instant, the idea for the Sun Devil was born.

What is the meaning of Sun Devils?

The nickname, and therefore, the Sun Devils' mascot, comes from a weather phenomenon known as a whirlwind. In some places, it is referred to as a “dust devil” or a “dancing devil.”

Was the ASU mascot fight real?

During Arizona and Arizona State's rivalry game the two school's mascots fought just as hard as the players on the field. Except instead of fighting the opposing team on the field, they were seen coming to blows on the touchline.

Is Sparky the Sun Devil offensive?

Although ASU intended for the Sun Devil to reference Arizona's blistering climate, some fans have viewed Sparky as offensive and even creepy. In 2020, thousands of fans petitioned for the "Sun Devils" moniker to become the "Sun Angels."

When did ASU become the Sun Devils?

The school adopted the moniker, the Sun Devils, on November 20, 1946. The trophy awarded after each game, the Territorial Cup, is the nation's oldest rivalry trophy. It is currently held by the University of Arizona.

Evolution of Sparky the mascot: Arizona State University (ASU)

What is the controversy with the Sun Devils?

The Arizona State football program has been mired in controversy over the past year due to a recruiting scandal that led to a recent self-imposed bowl ban for the 2023 season. The sanctions come as the culmination of an NCAA investigation that has already seen massive turnover on the Sun Devils coaching staff.

What was ASU mascot before Sparky?

Sparky was born on November 20th, 1946 as Arizona State University's Mascot after students voted for the college to change their name from the “Bulldogs” to the “Sun Devils”. Students, faculty, alumni, and season-ticket holders were given a voice again in 2013 when they voted on the current Sparky design.

Why does Arizona say bear down?

“Bear Down?” In 1926, John Byrd “Button” Salmon, our student body president and quarterback, was critically injured in a car crash. His last words to his coach were, “Tell them … tell the team to bear down.” Today, this simple two-word phrase is a rallying cry that embodies the spirit of our university.

What is ASU football nickname?

Perhaps the easiest way to recognize fellow Sun Devils is by seeing them sport the “Fork 'em Devils” hand sign — the universal sign of ASU pride!

Has ASU ever won a Rose Bowl?

Then ASU senior quarterback Jake Plummer (16) interviews the media surrounded by fans after clinching the Rose Bowl in a win against Cal at Sun Devil Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 9, 1996. ASU won 35-7.

What are ASU students called?

ASU welcomes more than 6,645 international students each semester from over 120 countries, the 11th highest international student population in the U.S. ASU's international students are an important and integrated part of the community. They are proud to call themselves “Sun Devils”.

Who designed the ASU Sun Devil logo?

Okay, here is where it gets fun: Two years later, ASU enlisted the talents of Berk Anthony, a Disney illustrator, and proud alumnus, to create a design for the newly adopted Sun Devil mascot. He created today's iconic look, initially just designing Sparky as a logo, not a fleshed-out character.

What is ASU known for?

Consistently recognized by U.S. News & World Report as the country's most innovative school, Arizona State University also takes the top spot in the nation for sustainability (Sustainability Tracking, Assessment and Rating System) and global impact (Times Higher Education).

When did ASU change their name?

From humble beginnings, and through a series of name changes that led to a 1958 vote of the people and a 2-to-1 margin of victory for the advancement of Arizona State College to Arizona State University, ASU's century-plus trajectory has led to its being recognized as the “most innovative” university in the country by ...

When did ASU change their logo?

The ASU sunburst

The sunburst logo was introduced in 1995, replacing all preexisting ASU logos. The logo is made up of a sun icon that is incorporated into the three letter forms (A, S and U) and provides a strong and recognizable graphic image of ASU's mission and purpose.

What university is The Sun devil?

Men, women, and youth can all shop the largest selection of Arizona State Sun Devil's Gear from the Official Sun Devil Shop, with everything from game clothing to home and office decorations to computers and tablets. Check out our stores and make sure you are ready to cheer on the Sun Devil's this year!

What is The Sun Devils new name?

— Sun Devil Stadium is renamed Mountain America Stadium.

Why do liverpudlians hate The Sun newspaper?

Though other newspapers reported stories critical of the fans, The Sun drew outrage among Liverpudlians for its repetition of unreliable claims as fact—including false claims by police officers—and its position in the aftermath of the events.

Is ASU a historically black university?

OUR MISSION. Alabama State University is a student-centered public HBCU committed to excellence in teaching, research and service. ASU provides a nurturing, holistic learning environment focused on developing students, on campus and virtually, to be global change agents.

Is ASU a good school?

ASU is ranked the top public university in the U.S. chosen by international students, according to the 2023 Institute of International Education Open Doors Report. Placing ahead of the University of Illinois, Purdue and University of Michigan, ASU also ranked in the top five among all universities.

What does forks up mean ASU?

The Arizona State Mascot is Sparky the Sun Devil, the devils weapon of choice is a pitch fork or a trident like the one Sparky carries. The hand gesture of your index, middle and pinky fingers up represents that trident and is used to show support and rally support.