Cy the Cardinal: Iowa State’s Beloved Basketball Mascot

Cy the Cardinal is Iowa State University’s beloved Basketball Mascot Learn more about Cy’s history and how he became such a big part of ISU Athletics.

Cy the Cardinal: A Brief History

Cy the Cardinal is the official mascot of Iowa State University’s (ISU) athletics teams. The cardinal is a large red songbird that is native to North America and the state bird of Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia The use of a cardinal as ISU’s mascot began in 1954 when the school’s athletic director Charles Darling suggested that the bird would be an appropriate symbol for the school.

Since then, Cy has become one of the most recognizable mascots in college athletics and has been a source of pride for ISU fans across the country. He can often be seen at ISU sporting events, cheering on the Cyclones and leading the crowd in chants of “Go State!”

Cy’s image has undergone some changes over the years, but he has always been depicted as a large red cardinal with white trim. In his current incarnation, Cy wears an ISU sweater and backwards Baseball Cap He is friendly and outgoing, and his infectious spirit is sure to put a smile on your face – even if your team is losing!

Cy the Cardinal: The Making of a Mascot

It’s hard to imagine Iowa State University without Cy the Cardinal, the school’s beloved live mascot. But Cy didn’t always exist—he was only born in 1955, when students held a contest to design a new university mascot.

Since then, Cy has become one of ISU’s most recognizable symbols. He can be seen entertaining fans at basketball games participating in campus events, and even posing for pictures with students on graduation day.

But what goes into being a live mascot? It takes a lot of hard work and dedication! The person playing Cy must be athletic, outgoing, and above all else, must love Iowa State University

If you think you have what it takes to be the next Cy the Cardinal, fill out an application today!

Cy the Cardinal: Iowa State’s Beloved Basketball Mascot

Iowa State’s beloved Basketball Mascot Cy the Cardinal, has been a staple at Iowa State University since his debut in 1975. Cy is a popular figurehead for the school’s basketball team and he is beloved by students and fans alike.

Cy originally started as a student-led initiative to bring more School Spirit to Iowa State basketball games The original Cy was selected through a campus-wide contest, and he quickly became a campus icon. In 1985, Cy was inducted into the Mascot Hall of Fame making him the first college mascot to receive this honor.

Cy has undergone several changes over the years, but his infectiously positive attitude and love for Iowa State University have remained constant. He is an important part of Iowa State culture, and he will continue to bring joy and excitement to basketball games for years to come.

Cy the Cardinal: From the Court to the Classroom

Cy the Cardinal is Iowa State’s beloved Basketball Mascot He has been a fixture at Iowa State men’s Basketball Games since 1955, and in that time, he has become one of the most recognizable and popular mascots in the country. In addition to his court duties, Cy also serves as an ambassador for Iowa State University making appearances at university events and fundraisers, as well as speaking engagements around the state.

In recent years Cy has added another title to his resume: teacher. He has appeared in several videos produced by the university’s Extension and Outreach department, covering topics such as fire safety, storm preparedness, and choosing healthy foods. In each video, Cy uses his fun and friendly personality to engage viewers of all ages and help them learn about important topics.

So whether he’s cheering on the Cyclones on the court or teaching Iowans about important life topics, Cy the Cardinal is always representing Iowa State University in a positive way. Go Cyclones!

Cy the Cardinal: A Fan Favorite

Iowa State’s beloved Basketball Mascot Cy the Cardinal, is a fan favorite among students and alumni. Named after the school’s colors, Cy first made his debut in 1965 and has been a staple at ISU Basketball Games ever since.

Cy the Cardinal: In the Community

Cy the Cardinal, Iowa State University’s beloved Basketball Mascot spends a lot of his time in the Ames community. He can be seen reading to children at the library, visiting with patients at the local hospital, and cheering on Cyclones athletes at school sporting events. Cy loves being involved in the community and bringing smiles to people’s faces!

Cy the Cardinal: Cy’s Closet

Cy the Cardinal is Iowa State University’s beloved Basketball Mascot and Cy’s Closet is a popular campus store where students can buy merchandise featuring Cy. The store is named after Cy because it is located in the same building as the basketball team’s locker room and it was originally created as a place for students to buy Cardinal-themed clothing and other items. Today, Cy’s Closet is still a popular spot for students to buy Iowa State gear, and it also stocks a wide range of other products, including gifts, novelties, and general school supplies.

Cy the Cardinal: Cy’s Kids Club

Cy the Cardinal is Iowa State University’s beloved Basketball Mascot Cy is a big part of the Cyclones’ game day tradition, and he is also the face of the Cyclone’s Kids Club. The Cyclone’s Kids Club is a free membership club for fans 12 and under. As a member of the club, kids receive a free t-shirt, coupons for concessions and merchandise, and invitations to exclusive events with Cy the Cardinal.

Cy the Cardinal: The Future of Cy

This winter, Iowa State University introduced a new addition to its athletics program: Cy the Cardinal. Cy is a mascot who represents the school’s Basketball team and he has quickly become a fan favorite.

However, some students have raised concerns about the future of Cy. Specifically, they worry that he will be replaced by another mascot if the basketball team ever gets a new Head Coach

Iowa State University has assured students that this is not the case. In fact, the university has said that Cy is here to stay and will continue to represent the school’s Basketball team for years to come.

Cy the Cardinal: FAQs

If you’re a fan of Iowa State athletics, then you know all about Cy the Cardinal! He’s been the school’s official mascot since 1955 and is beloved by fans across the country. Here are some FAQs about everyone’s favorite bird.

What is Cy’s full name?
Cyclone Alexander Welcomes All Fans, or just “Cy” for short!

What kind of bird is Cy?
He’s an American Redbird, which is a type of cardinal. Cardinals are known for their red feathers, hence Cy’s red body and head.

Where does Cy live?
Cy has his own home in Ames, Iowa, close to Jack Trice Stadium and Hilton Coliseum where the Iowa State football and basketball teams play respectively. He can often be seen tailgating with fans before home games!

What are some of Cy’s duties as mascot?
Cy attends all Iowa State home football and Basketball Games as well as many other university events throughout the year. He loves interacting with fans, especially kids!