In the world of college football, there's a special tradition with the Colorado Buffaloes. This tradition has been alive for more than 50 years and is a big part of the football games at Colorado's Folsom Field. Started 52 years ago, it still brings the lively spirit of the University of Colorado to each game.
The Colorado Buffaloes football program is a beacon of athletic achievement for the University of Colorado Boulder, competing in NCAA Division I FBS. A member of the Pac-12 Conference and soon rejoining the Big 12 Conference in the 2024 season, the team has etched its name in college football history. Playing at Folsom Field since 1924, the Buffaloes have amassed a record of 716–520–36, with a winning percentage of .577 as of the 2022 season. Notably, Colorado secured the National Championship in 1990, holding the 27th spot in all-time wins and the 40th spot in all-time winning percentage.
As the Colorado Buffaloes football program shines as a beacon of achievement, let’s take a look at their Mascot.
Colorado Buffaloes Mascot
The University of Colorado boasts one of the most distinctive mascots in the realm of intercollegiate athletics – a living buffalo named Ralphie. Representing the University of Colorado Boulder's athletic teams, the Colorado Buffaloes are synonymous with the spirit of determination and resilience.
The Live Colorado Buffaloes Mascot
The heartbeat of the Colorado Buffaloes mascot experience is Ralphie, a magnificent live buffalo. This emblematic creature leads the football team onto the field at the commencement of the game and halftime. Witnessing this grand sight is truly a remarkable experience, capturing the awe of spectators and even opposing teams. The stadium is filled with wonder as Ralphie charges across the end zone, making a beeline for the opposing sideline.
The legacy of the Colorado Buffaloes mascot
The narrative of Ralphie adds an intriguing layer to the Colorado Buffaloes mascot story. Although Ralphie is a female buffalo, choosing a male name raises questions. This distinctive naming choice finds its origins in history and tradition, dating back to 1934 when the university students adopted "Buffaloes" as their nickname. The decision to select a bison as the university's mascot emerged from a unique circumstance that involved renting a bison calf and a cowboy to handle her. This marked the inception of a tradition that would span generations.
The legacy of the Colorado Buffaloes mascot is not limited to a single chapter. A line of spirited female buffaloes has carried forward the torch of this tradition. From Ralphie I's service from 1966 to 1978 to the current Ralphie V, each buffalo has contributed to CU's national recognition, showcasing the university's vibrant spirit and connection to its heritage.
In the heart of Colorado Buffaloes' legacy lies Ralphie, a symbol of strength, history, and unity that continues to captivate generations of fans and forge a deep connection between the university's past and present.
FAQs
A. The Colorado Buffaloes mascot is a real buffalo named Ralphie.
A. Ralphie leads the football team onto the field at the beginning of the game and halftime.
A. The tradition began in 1934, and the name Ralphie is a nod to history.
A. The university students adopted "Buffaloes" as their nickname and the tradition started with renting a bison calf.
A. The university has had several spirited female buffalo mascots, with Ralphie V currently in service.
