Which College’S Mascot Is Huge Red?

Big Red, the mascot of Western Kentucky University’s sports teams, the “Hilltoppers” and “Lady Toppers”, was created by Ralph Carey in 1979. It is a red, furry creature that symbolizes the spirit of WKU students and alumni, as well as the sports teams’ nickname, the “Hilltoppers”. Since 2002, Big Red has been selected into the Capital One All-America Mascot Team eight out of ten years of its existence. In 2005, Big Red placed second at the Capital One All-America Mascot Team.

Big Red was conceived in the fall of 1979 in the mind of Ralph Carey, who created a suit based on amusement park characters. Since then, Big Red has been the Hilltopper mascot since December 1, 1979. According to Sports Illustrated, Big Red is number eight on its list of the top 10 greatest mascots in college football history. The plush, charming, and lovable blob is celebrated for its spirited attitude and undying love for the university.

In honor of the 150th anniversary of college football, Big Red was named one of the Top 10 Greatest Mascots in College Football History. The card launched on May 12, 2024, features the famous Hilltoppers mascot, Big Red. The university’s historical timeline notes that Big Red was born in 1979, a product of WKU student Ralph Carey.

Capital One cites Big Red’s spirited attitude and undying love for the university as a reason why it has been a staple on the campus for over 30 years.