A mascot of ‘sedimental’ value (2024)

Rocky the Rock could make a comeback

It’s a rock.

The beloved, former mascot of Slippery Rock University, that is.

Rocky the Rock, the hand-made hero of SRU, is also referred to as Rocky I, was retired 22 years ago. To raise funds for incoming students and raise excitement around homecoming events, university officials started the “Rally for Rocky” campaign.

Samantha Swift, interim vice president of university advancement, said the goal of raising $22,000 by Oct. 15. The goal was sparked by popular demand.

“President Behre and I are often met with ‘When are you going to bring back the old mascot?’” she said.

The university’s homecoming theme is “Feelin’ 22,” which is why the donation goal was chosen, Swift said. Money raised to “release Rocky the Rock” will benefit the SRU Scholarship Fund.

“That money is one way to help relieve burdens for our incoming freshmen,” she said. “People are excited, you just look for something fun and lighthearted, especially with the way the world is, it’s something people can get behind and rally around, and it’s for a good cause.”

Homecoming is planned Oct. 14 to 16 and includes a matchup between the Rock and Gannon University’s Golden Knights at Mihalik-Thompson Stadium at 1 p.m. Oct. 15.

Rolling stone

Swift said Rocky I made his first appearance back in 1978, when the campus was referred to as Slippery Rock State College. The mascot-less school had an ambitious freshman, Bob Jones, who created Rocky with his mother.

“(His mother) made the costume, and (Jones) was anonymous the whole time he was Rocky. He donated the original costume to the university. It’s been in the archives in a case.”

Jones played the role until 1982, revealing his identity during a football game. But SRU ran with Rocky I until 2000. He was replaced by Rocky II, or, Rocky the Pride, the lion mascot of the institution, following input from faculty and students.

According to Swift, a Rocky costume by SRU’s theater costume department is in the works.

Making a comeback

If the school reaches its campaign goal, Swift said Rocky will hang out at the Alumni Association tent during Saturday’s homecoming festivities. As to who will wear the suit, that remains a secret.

“Once Rocky gets out, I can’t imagine he’ll want to go back in. He’ll want to take pictures and walk around,” she said.

As of Tuesday night, $6,373 dollars have been donated to Rally for Rocky. Swift said people can expect social media campaigns to bolster the fundraising efforts.

“I see old Rocky making a comeback,” she said.

To donate to Rally for Rocky, visit https://www.givecampus.com/schools/SlipperyRockUniversityofPennsylvania/rally-for-rocky.