After a hiatus of nearly six decades, Hoosier the Bison is making a triumphant return as the official mascot of Indiana University. The announcement, made on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, has generated excitement among students, alumni, and fans alike. Hoosier the Bison is set to make his debut at the season opener against Old Dominion on August 30th at Memorial Stadium.
The return of the bison was set in motion by the Indiana University Student Body Congress, which passed the "Bring Back the Bison Act" in December 2024. This act demonstrated student support for reinstating the bison as the official mascot of IU-Bloomington. IU Athletics fully supported the resolution and took on the task of creating a new version of the mascot.
Hoosier the Bison first appeared as the university's mascot in 1965. Bison imagery has been linked to Indiana University for over 200 years, with the animal being found along the Buffalo Trace, in what is now Bloomington. The bison is also a distinguishing feature of the state seal. However, the bison's initial run as a mascot was short-lived, as it was phased out in 1969 due to waning student interest. The university briefly adopted Mr. Hoosier Pride in 1979, but that mascot was retired after only one year.
Despite the absence of a physical mascot, the nickname "Hoosiers" has remained unchanged. Indiana University clarified that while Hoosier the Bison will be the official mascot, the school's official nickname will still be "Hoosiers". The university plans to introduce branded apparel featuring the mascot and create opportunities for appearances. Fans can also follow Hoosier the Bison's adventures on social media platforms such as X and Instagram.
The return of Hoosier the Bison marks Indiana's first physical mascot since 1980. The university hopes the bison will play a vital role in representing the school's athletic programs. The bison symbolizes tradition, unity, and pride in being part of the Hoosier community. With Indiana sports on the upswing, Hoosier the Bison is returning to Bloomington at an opportune time. The Hoosiers football team is coming off an 11-2 season, which included the program's first appearance in the College Football Playoff. The women's basketball team has consistently made the NCAA Tournament in the past five seasons, while the men's basketball team has a new head coach.
As Hoosier the Bison prepares to make his official return, it remains to be seen how the Indiana home crowd will receive him after his departure in 1969. Many are also anticipating the interactions between Hoosier and other Big Ten mascots.
