CAM the Ram: A History of Colorado State University's Mascot
Colorado State University (CSU) has a rich history of mascots, each contributing to the school's vibrant spirit and traditions. From bulldogs and bears to the iconic ram, these animal ambassadors have embodied CSU pride and fostered a sense of community. Today, CAM the Ram serves as the university's beloved mascot, energizing crowds at games and representing CSU's enduring spirit.
Early Mascots: From Aggies to Bulldogs
Founded in 1870 as the Colorado Agricultural College, CSU initially adopted the nickname "Aggies" to reflect its agricultural focus. In the early days, the university's sports teams were known as the Aggies, a nod to the school's agricultural roots.
One of the first documented mascots was an eagle named Sam, gifted to the college by Bishop Dalton. However, the first official animal ambassador was an English bulldog named Peanuts, owned by the Alpha Pi Lambda fraternity brothers in 1913. Peanuts quickly became a campus favorite, known for his playful antics, such as biting car tires and chasing pedestrians. He attended all home football games, led Aggie rooters onto the field during halftime parades, and enthusiastically barked throughout the games from the sidelines. Peanuts even accompanied the Battery "A" artillery unit during World War I, traveling from Colorado to New Jersey for training and marching through the streets of New York City.
Following Peanuts' death, a 15-month-old black bear named Teddy became CSU's first official mascot in 1919. Owned by Frank Miller, proprietor of the Northern Garage in Fort Collins and a former member of Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show, Teddy sported an Aggie team sweater and attended football games and parades. However, Teddy's tenure as mascot was short-lived, lasting only about a year.
In September 1936, Glenn Morris, an Olympic decathlon champion and Aggie alumnus, presented the college with a white English bulldog named Gallant Defender. A gift from the Denver Kennel Club, Gallant Defender resembled Peanuts and wore a collar that read "A Champion for a Champion." He served as mascot for two years, accompanying the Spurs (the women's pep organization) to games.
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The Rise of the Rams
In 1945, the student body voted to change the school's nickname to "Rams," believing that rams best represented the culture of Colorado A&M. This decision marked a turning point in the university's mascot history, paving the way for the iconic CAM the Ram.
In 1946, the first live ram mascot, a gray-white 2-year-old named Buck, made his debut at an A&M-University of Denver basketball game in Denver. However, it wasn't until 1954 that the ram received an official name. President William Morgan declared that the ram would henceforth be known as CAM the Ram, a name derived from Colorado A&M.
CAM the Ram: A Living Tradition
Since 1954, a live CAM the Ram has faithfully served as CSU's mascot, accompanied by student "Ram Handlers." These dedicated students are responsible for the care and well-being of CAM, ensuring he is ready to represent the university at various events.
CAM is a domesticated Rambouillet sheep, the largest breed of fine wool sheep. This majestic animal embodies the strength, resilience, and spirit of Colorado State University. CAM loves attention and has formed special bonds with his handlers, enjoying affection, scratches, and cuddles. His favorite part of the day is hearing his handlers arrive.
The Ram Handlers play a crucial role in CAM's life and appearances. These students balance their academic responsibilities with their duties as CAM's closest humans, following a flexible, low-stress schedule. Teamwork is essential among the handlers, as they work together to create a smooth and stress-free experience for CAM during university events.
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"When you're on his leash, your main focus is how his behavior is doing and how he is doing," said Jasmine Fernandez, a Ram Handler. "You can kind of just look ahead and see if there are any possible things that might cause a disruption."
CAM's presence at games energizes the crowd and represents CSU pride. He leads the Colorado State football team onto the field before games, participates in university events, and poses for photos with students and alumni. CAM can also be seen on all types of Colorado State University merchandise and even as a stuffed animal in the stores on campus.
Honoring the Ram: Campus Statues
The ram's significance to Colorado State University is further reflected in the various ram statues that adorn the campus. These statues serve as landmarks and symbols of CSU pride, providing students, alumni, and visitors with opportunities to connect with the university's traditions.
- "Ram Proud": Located near Moby Arena, this elegant statue is a popular spot for students to pose for photos following graduation ceremonies. Originally placed south of the Durrell Center in 1999, it was moved to its current location in 2013 due to construction.
- "Rocky Mountain Rumble": This iconic statue, depicting two rams charging at one another, stands outside Canvas Stadium. Installed in 2017, it captures the spirit of competition and the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains.
- "Meet the Challenge": This ram statue has traveled around campus since 2002, residing in various locations before finding its current home at the medical center at Prospect and College in 2017.
- "Traditions": Located at the training center in Moby Arena, this statue features a ram draped with a CSU blanket. It was gifted to student-athletes and scholars, with the intention of athletes rubbing the ram's nose for good luck before games.
- Untitled Ram: This unnamed ram resides just east of the Michael Smith Natural Resources Building and is part of the Warner College of Natural Resources' art collection. It was installed inside the building in 1976.
A Legacy of Pride and Tradition
From its early days as Colorado Agricultural College to its current status as a leading research university, Colorado State University has been shaped by its mascots and traditions. CAM the Ram, in particular, has become an enduring symbol of CSU pride, representing the university's spirit, resilience, and commitment to excellence. As CAM continues to energize crowds and inspire students, his legacy will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.
The People Behind CAM: Ram Handlers
Behind every great mascot is a dedicated team of handlers, and CAM the Ram is no exception. A group of approximately 15 to 20 student Ram Handlers work tirelessly to care for CAM, ensuring his well-being and preparing him for his many appearances. These students, often nicknamed "CAM's closest humans," form a tight-knit family, united by their love for CAM and their commitment to upholding CSU traditions.
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Suzie Halvorson, an animal ambassador behavior specialist, has been affectionately dubbed "CAM's mama" by fellow handlers due to her unwavering dedication to CAM since his birth. Her expertise in animal behavior ensures that CAM is well-cared for and comfortable in his role as mascot.
Ram Handlers juggle their academic responsibilities with their duties to CAM, following a flexible schedule that prioritizes his needs. They are responsible for cleaning, feeding, and providing 24-hour supervision and care for CAM, ensuring his health and happiness.
The Costumed CAM: A Modern Addition
In addition to the live CAM the Ram, a costumed version of the mascot has been entertaining fans since the early 1980s. This two-legged CAM brings a different kind of energy to games and events, interacting with the crowd and posing for photos. The newest version of the costumed CAM was unveiled in October, adding a modern twist to the traditional mascot.
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