Now we've all heard enough about the NCAA's ban on mascots that are "abusive" and hurtful toward Native Americans. But while the media has jumped all over the bellyaching put forward by your big-time Division I-A schools, the big changes are happening below the radar. As we approach the February 1 deadline to change mascots or appeal, lots of smaller colleges have given in to the NCAA's pressure and tossed aside their somewhat antiquated monikers in favor of hipper, more modern terminology.
This Monday, we saw what is presumably the most productive application of this politically-correct ruling, when Southeastern Oklahoma State University decided to call it quits on their old mascot, the Savages. Now, in general, we find the NCAA's witchhunt against mascots to be just that, a witchhunt, but we are also somewhat relieved to see the Savage put out to pasture. The term seems to cross that fine line between merely referential and prejudicial. So toss out all your old merchandise and say hello to the Southeastern Oklahoma State University Savage Storm!
Savage Storm? What the hell is that?
- Is it a Marvel Superhero?
- A new wave band?
- How about the Fred Savages?
- Or the Savage Gardens?
Whatever it is, I don't like it.
Those are just my suggestions. Savage Storm, give me a break.