The renaming of the Gamecock live mascot has been a topic of conversation for the past few weeks. The university first announced it would be changing the name from 'Sir Big Spur'. They even took suggestions from the public on the new name. Then it was announced they would change the name to "The General" as an homage to Thomas Sumter. Then in a new turn of events, The University announced Thursday, it is keeping the name as it was. The statement from South Carolina Deputy AD Eric Nichols is below.
“It was always preferred that we would stay with the ‘Sir Big Spur’ name. I appreciate the passion that the owners, Mary Snelling and Ron Albertelli, and the new handlers Beth and Van Clark, have for the Gamecocks and the live mascot. We are pleased that we are starting the season with the same name as in year’s past.”
"Following feedback the Athletics Department received, there was more dialogue made with the owners of the Gamecock live mascot, who had rights to the name. The two families and the administration reconnected and found a solution in the best interest of the University, while respecting the wishes of both families."
“Sir Big Spur” will be on the sidelines Saturday night as the Gamecocks’ football team hosts Georgia State in Williams-Brice Stadium.
