GEAUX … TIGERS.I would venture to say we hear the phrase at least once a day, and cheer it multiple times at the top of our lungs during sporting events.But few students realize that the Tiger nickname comes all the way from the Civil War era. The first president of LSU, Maj. David French Boyd, fought with Louisiana troops — nicknamed the “Tigers.” And since most collegiate teams at the time were named after vicious animals, the name stuck.LSU’s first live mascot was bought in 1936 with money gathered from students. His habitat was built a year later, and Mike took up residence on campus. Many of us walk by his habitat on game day or even just going to classes, and don’t give much attention to this fierce animal. This may be because he is often asleep or lounging in the shade. But can you blame him in this heat?But if you happen to have an 8:30 a.m. class, I would recommend seeing if Mike is awake. I had one every day during the fall, and saw Mike pacing around every time I was rushing to class.I started getting up a little earlier — no easy feat for me — to be able to watch him for a couple minutes every day.He is almost always out at that time of day and watching his contained power helped me gain even more pride in my school.We respect Mike so much that we have Mike I on display in the LSU Museum of Natural Science. He is still pretty intimidating, even being stuffed.There aren’t very many live animal mascots left in the SEC or even in the country, and personally, I think Mike is the best.I mean, entering Death Valley is scary enough for visiting teams, but hearing the roar of the tiger before the game starts can’t be good for their nerves.Put Mike up against any of the other mascots in the SEC and see how they fare. There is even a sign that warns against bringing dogs near Mike’s habitat. Watch out, Uga.
 
 
 
—–Contact Ellen Zielinski at [email protected]