Just my opinion, but an albino gator makes little sense and has no connection to the gators in The Swamp on campus and we have football stadium called The Swamp. The Gator fits both. We have a built-in tradition, why try some other mascot that has no university ties, be it a Catahoula or an AI? If a gator is colored, it should be Vermilion red or not colored and stays green.
Facebook is a hellscape.
Regardless of your opinion on this specific design, I think people should take a step back and appreciate the fact that a recent graduate was passionate enough about this subject to sink countless hours in to this work and starting the discussion. Look at the student section next time you are at a Cajun sporting event. We are generating students few and far between who will give more than a passing thought to this university after graduating. We can't even get them interested while they are here. Our students, and even some of our student athletes, would rather spend their time and money in BR than in Lafayette. Knock the design if you want, but the, "this sucks. F you for trying" mentality is wild.
Agree ZeppelinCajun, I applaud Cory's efforts.
You know I really appreciate that. Yours too Turbine. After an entire day of seeing people say really bad things about my work, question my character, and then watch someone weaponize my light hearted joke at how divisive Al has become against me, I can definitely say it’s been a long day. It’s a day I ask myself, “Do I really love UL this much?” “Should anybody love UL this much if this is how fans treat passion for the university?” “Is it really worth taking the bullets that Dr. Maggard, Dr. Savoie, and the rest of the marketing department have been avoiding for years?” After this experience, I honestly don’t blame them.
There’s a lot of room for doubt, but seeing comments like yours is a jolt of joy in my pursuit to make the UL experience better.
I see the lack of engagement with the young people too. I saw the empty student sections before I left town. The fanbase is dwindling at roots, and I’m one of the few young alumni that’s actually trying to stop it. That’s why it’s encouraging to see how well like he is with people in my age group and below. Cajuns Barstool has fully embraced him. That’s great far as student engagement. Al even got a compliment from Pete’s. Al might not be able to win today because there’s too much of the past still around, but give him some time. I’m still confident after the things I’ve seen today.
Oh, and I still love UL too.
Cory, your talent will make room for you.
You were given a gift and possibly selected at the right time and right place to do exactly what you know you are supposed to do.
Please don't let the "noise" or opinions get in your way.
UL and "Al" may be the vehicle to something greater for you. Please don't give up on us and whatever destiny may have for you.
Enjoy the ride bro! Geaux Cajuns
Big hurdle will be when UF files a lawsuit over of the name Al. If Wyoming sued and won against McLeast and their logo, Florida is a no brainer.
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