Texans may believe it is safe to walk the state's highways and
byways. No recent Comanche raids have been reported and there
hasn't been a stage holdup in years.
"But be warned!" writes Rob Sledge. "Behind the doors of every
high school in the state crouch vicious beasts and savages ready, able
and even eager to pounce on the unsuspecting visitor. Texas may
appear to be civilized, but 'it's a jungle out there!'
In this entertaining yet informative book on Texas high school
mascots, Sledge traces the lore and the legends, the popular and the
pertinent, the original and the obscure, the conventional and the
controversial.
You will read about Mighty Mites, Porcupines, Battlin' Billies,
Wampus Cats, Hippos, Kangaroos, Gorillas, Sharks, Cottonpickers,
Roughnecks, Blizzards, and even one school that goes by the Daisies
(yes, it's a girls' school).
Chapters are devoted to birds, canines, felines, and other critters,
as well as historical figures, ranch icons, and, of course, Indians. The
most popular team names in Texas are compared with the top choices
for U.S. colleges, and readers are invited to have a little fun in
matching mascots to movie clues and potential headlines.
As far as we know, every high school in Texas is listed at least
twice—by school and by mascot—including some that are just
opening their doors this fall.
_________________________________________________________
Historian ROB SLEDGE is a former Red Ant, Eagle, Scorpion, Pirate,
Red Fox, Mustang, and Longhorn. He has taught Plainsmen, Indians,
Mustangs, and Broncos.
What people are saying about this book
"These pages offer enjoyable opportunities to understand how many
of the team titles were selected at more than 1,500 high schools, with
227 different names . . . comprehensive and always joyfully written
chapters . . . Anyone seeking specific information about their favorite
high school will be particularly grateful for three appendices:
Alphabetical Index by Mascot; Alphabetical Index by School; and
Mascot-Related School Addresses by the Numbers. This volume is
highly informative and thoroughly enjoyable—a true Texas victory on
the scoreboard of quality."—East Texas Historical Journal
". . . all libraries, especially in schools, can feel comfortable adding
[this book] to their collections."—Review of Texas Books
". . . perfect for sports fans of any age."—Kerrville Daily Times
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