Thursday, October 14, 2010

Uga VIII

Even though the season hasn't gone as planned, this weekend is a big one for the Bulldog nation! Not only is it Homecoming and the Dawgs are trying to start a win streak with their second straight win, but Uga VIII will be introduced. There will be a passing of the collar ceremony before the game kicks off on Saturday against Vanderbilt. Russ, who has served admirably in his temporary role taking over for the untimely death of Uga VII, will hand over the collar to Uga VIII. The next Uga is the great-great-great-great-great-grandson of the original Uga and is the grandson of Uga VI. Uga VIII’s registered name is Big Bad Bruce. He was named in honor of Dr. Bruce Hollet who is the official veterinary for the Uga line and a member of the UGA Veterinary School.

Uga VIII was selected from a pool of several puppies in the bloodline of the original Uga. The selection was based on several different criteria, including age, size, health status and head size. He is 13 months old, weighs 55 pounds and is in good health. He has recently had nasal surgery to help improve his breathing. According to Sonny Siler, the owner of the Bulldogs line of mascots, “Big Bad Bruce has an excellent head.” In addition, Big Bad Bruce has been raised listening to the Red Coat Marching band music piped into his kennel. I say he sounds like a perfect Uga! I am sure he will continue to carry on the prestige of one of the most storied mascots in all of college sports.

Welcome Uga VIII and Go Dawgs!

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