Drake University, located in Des Moines, Iowa, is represented by two primary mascots:
- Griff II: A live English Bulldog who serves as the university’s official mascot. Griff II frequently appears at campus events, sporting activities, and community engagements, embodying the spirit and tradition of Drake University.
- Spike: A costumed Bulldog mascot that energizes fans during athletic events, particularly at basketball games. Spike is known for engaging with the crowd and enhancing the game-day experience.
The tradition of the Bulldog mascot dates back to 1910, initiated by John L. Griffith, the university’s athletic director and head football coach. Griffith introduced his two English Bulldogs to games and practices, leading to the adoption of the Bulldog as the university’s mascot.
In recent times, Griff II has gained significant attention, especially during events like March Madness.
However, NCAA regulations restrict live mascots from participating in early tournament rounds, permitting their presence only at the Final Four. This policy led to fan petitions advocating for rule changes to allow mascots like Griff II in earlier rounds.
For a closer look at Griff II in action, you might enjoy this video: