How Was Duke’S Mascot Chosen?

The Blue Devil is the mascot of Duke University’s basketball team, the Duke Blue Devils. He is a costumed human character wearing a blue and white cape with the team’s logo on it and a blue mask with white horns. He usually wears a white tape on his forehead with a message written on it. The name “Blue Devil” was inspired by the Chasseurs Alpins, a group of blue cape- and beret-wearing French soldiers known as “les Diables Bleus”. They were known for their blue uniforms, berets, and flowing capes during World War I.

The name “Blue Devils” was chosen by the staff of the student paper after naming contests focused on nicknames that leaned into Duke’s blue. The Chronicle’s staff continued to use the name, and eventually, “Blue Devils” became the official mascot and nickname of the Duke athletics program. The name dates back to World War I and the Chasseurs Alpins, who were well-known French soldiers.

The origin of the university mascot is virtually forgotten, but its instant, national recognition has long been established. The name “Blue Devils” was chosen by the staff of the student paper after naming contests focused on nicknames that leaned into Duke’s blue. The Chronicle’s staff continued to use the name, and eventually, “Blue Devils” became the official mascot and nickname of the Duke athletics program.

In “Details of the Devil: The History of Duke’s Mascot”, stories from those who have proudly worn Duke’s Blue Devil costume are revealed. The Blue Devils’ mascot has a heritage that is less sacrilegious than expected and rooted in military excellence.