Where did Houston Cougars get their name?
The Houston Cougars got their name in 1946, when the university's first physical education instructor and head football coach, John R. Bender, suggested it. Bender was a former head football coach at Washington State University, which also had the nickname "Cougars."
The cougar is a powerful and agile animal that is native to North America. It is also a symbol of strength and determination, which are qualities that Bender believed were important for the university's athletic teams.
The first official mascot of the Houston Cougars was a live cougar named Shasta. Shasta was a popular figure on campus for many years, and she even traveled with the team to away games. In 1989, Shasta was retired and replaced by a costumed mascot.
The Houston Cougars have a rich history and tradition. The team has won several conference championships and has made several appearances in the NCAA Tournament. The Cougars are known for their hard-nosed play and their never-say-die attitude. They are a proud team that represents the city of Houston and the state of Texas.
