Florida Gators Rivalry Reviewed: Florida State Seminoles

Apr 12, 2014; Tallahassee, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles mascot Chief Osceola before the start of the spring game at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports

Mascot: Chief Osceola and his horse Renegade have been a mainstay at Florida State since 1978. I’ve always liked live action mascots that are authentic and lifelike (see: Mike the Tiger). FSU’s previous attempts at mascots have most certainly failed, most notably Sammy Seminole and Chief Fullabull. But the Seminole Tribe of Florida has apparently approved the garb worn by Chief Osceola, making sure the character is that much more authentic.

Florida State nailed their nickname, and consequently, their mascot.. A lot of schools choose nicknames that don’t have anything to do with their geographical location or home state’s history. Have you ever seen a tiger in Alabama or Louisiana (besides in a cage)? How about a kangaroo in Ohio (I’m looking at you, Akron)? That’s where FSU succeeds. The Seminole name is unique to the state and represents the first inhabitants of the state of Florida. The Seminole Tribe of Florida’s past is well documented and their battle prowess makes for a great mascot. Although most of the Seminole Tribe now lives in Oklahoma, Florida State chose a nickname and mascot that fits incredibly well with a university in Florida.

Seminole fans will tell you that the greatest pre-game intro is when Chief Osceola gets on Renegade, runs out of the tunnel, and throws his flaming spear into the center of the football field, usually on the midfield logo. It’s certainly a nice touch and definitely something that can take a crowd teetering on anticipation to full-blown frenzy.

One thing I’ve noticed with Chief Osceola is he doesn’t interact with fans all that much. Considering that’s the main point of having a mascot, it’s kind of interesting that you don’t see him doing more with the crowd. I guess that’s why in 2012, FSU brought back Cimarron to devote more time to the spectating experience at Seminole sporting events. Cimarron also serves as a liaison to the school’s kids club. I know when I was a kid, all I wanted to do was meet my favorite team’s mascot. Now, little FSU fans can do so. But why did it take so long?