Florida State to Drop Seminoles as University Symbol

ScalpEm.com - Tallahassee, FL

Florida State University has decided to drop Seminoles as the school’s symbol. The school has been under heavy pressure to change its nickname to a more politically correct one. University athletics spokesperson James Morrison stated, “Today is an exciting day for Florida State athletics. The new moniker, Garnet, will help FSU expand its base of fans and unify our diverse university.” The change comes as a surprise, since FSU continues to have the support of Chief James Billie and the Seminole Tribe. Nike, quickly jumped in to help rename the university’s teams. Nike spokesperson Jody McGrath stated, “Both Florida State and Nike are proud to introduce the new line of apparel featuring the new team name, Garnet. Both men’s and women’s sports will be referred to as Garnet, with no distinguishing male or female characteristics. Starting with Fall 2005, gold will be used as a trim color, and will be featured as the color of the G logo.”

According to Nike and FSU projections, sales of the new merchandise should increase revenue by 25% for 2005.

When asked about the many traditions, statues and graphics depicting the former university symbol, the Seminoles, Morrison stated, “At this time all of those things are under review. It will likely take two years to completely phase out the old logos, but we certainly have the experience in doing something like this. This is something that needs to be changed, in order to continue to grow its fanbase.”

Morrison refers to the change in date on the university’s seal from 1857 to 1851, under then university president, Talbot “Sandy” D’Alembert. That change was made in order to make FSU the oldest public university in Florida. It continues to come under heavy criticism by cost consciencious administrators and boosters alike.

Jody McGrath also stated, “The Marching Chiefs have been phasing out many of the songs over the last two to three years, long before this change occurred. Part of this review process will address the use of songs like the Warchant and Seminole Uprising. Expect to see changes.”

The new “G” logo can be viewed below.