Where did Jacksonville State Gamecocks get their name?
The Jacksonville State Gamecocks got their name in 1947, when the university's athletic director, Emmett Crook "Baldy" Wilson, suggested it. Wilson was a former football player at the university, and he believed that the gamecock was a fitting symbol for the university's athletic teams.
The gamecock is a powerful and aggressive bird that is known for its fighting spirit. It is also a symbol of Southern culture, which is important to the university's identity.
The first official mascot of the Jacksonville State Gamecocks was a live rooster named Cocky. Cocky was a popular figure on campus for many years, and he even traveled with the team to away games. In 1989, Cocky was retired and replaced by a costumed mascot.
The Jacksonville State Gamecocks have a rich history and tradition. The team has won several conference championships and has made several appearances in the NCAA Tournament. The Gamecocks are known for their hard-nosed play and their never-say-die attitude. They are a proud team that represents the city of Jacksonville and the state of Alabama.