In response to the unveiling of the newly redesigned Sparky:
Let me start by saying, I am an Arizona native, born and raised a Sun Devil since 1958. Just recently have I been able to support my Sun Devils by purchasing season tickets to the football program. I also enjoy the other sports, but I have a special place in my heart for the football program. I can remember when I was around 6 years old and at Thanksgiving time, The Arizona Republic and Gazette would have the big story on the front page about the Territorial Cup Game. Frank Kush (my hero still) and I really enjoyed the colored cartoon figures of Sparky and Wilbur. Now that was a sight to see. My dad and I would hang out by the radio to hear all of the games, because we really could not afford to go to the home games. We had a large family of seven, and it would not be fair if just me and my dad would go. Sparky was, and still is my most favorite mascot of all time. I do not mean for this to sound like a threat of pulling my support, but I also hope this will not fall on deaf ears either. ASU has been doing some really great things for the past couple of years. I realize it does not have to consent to any of the community or student bodies if they want to change something with their logos or mascots, though it would have made more sense to me and a lot of other people than this sinister-looking character —definitely not kid friendly.
Russ Martin
State Press reader
I am completely disgusted with the new Sparky design. They wanted it to appeal to kids, but in my opinion, it is a cross between Buzz Lightyear and a Bumble Bee. It is hideous, and I believe it is ASU’s fault. They partnered with Disney to create a new Sparky to make it appeal to the younger generation without bringing it up to any of the students. Although there are plenty of ASU families with young children, Sparky represents the ASU students and alumni. Within hours of releasing the new design, students responded very quickly with their harsh opinion about the new Sparky.
It is absolutely ridiculous that they did not consult the students or at least student body representatives in Undergraduate Student Government. Luckily, we have a president, Mark Naufel, who is looking out for us and who is protesting the new design as well as the rest of USG. On March 7, Mark Naufel had a meeting with Steve Patterson, the athletics director, and I could not be any prouder of a president who is not afraid to take a step forward and represent the student body. All I have to say is bring back Sparky!
Mat Sherman
Undergraduate
I've just about had it. All you little "who moved my cheese" cry babies give Sun Devils a bad name. First all of you bitched about the Fork and the fact they replaced the stupid cartoon Sparky on the football helmet, now this. Your latest argument is that the students didn't have a say in the matter. Well, boo hoo! I'm an alumnus. If anyone should have a say in the matter it should have been me.
Sparky did't go ANYWHERE! Last time I checked, he's alive and well, and he looks more like himself than he has in over 30 years. What? Yeah — that's right. Any of you cry babies ever see images of the Sparky from the '50s? This recent makeover has returned him to more closely resemble that version — and I LOVE IT. Not the flash dance, sweat pants-wearing version we've been suffering with for the last 20 years.
Aside from the typical mass hysteria and mob mentality where a few have tried to convince the many that the new Sparky is horrible, everyone close to me (including several alumni) likes the new version. So I say to you cry babies — get over it!
James Atkins
Alumnus
I am an ASU alumnus and have had a season ticket since 1982. I do recall the slight modifications throughout the past 30 years, but I was extremely disappointed and my kids were saddened with the newest Sparky. I love my Sun Devils and will cherish all of my family photos with old Sparky. Mr. Patterson, your progressive vision has elevated our athletic department, but new Sparky looks kooky and kind of embarrassing. Bring back the real Sparky, please.
Braulio Gomez
Alumnus
I think updating seals, logos or mascots are almost always a mistake. The city of Phoenix seal in the 1960s, designed by my friend Paul Coze, was elegant sophisticated and beautiful. The new logo on all of the city vehicles is just the reverse of the Ruger Firearms logo — what a mess. Take the Boy Scouts redesign in the 1970s of the venerated Eagle Badge. What an ugly design the new eagle badge was. Other older cities seem to understand the importance of historical design continuity. Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, Paris — Why do we always think a design contest will make things better? I like the original Sparky and the original Phoenix.
Gary Johnson
Former faculty
Like many others, I am writing in frustration of the new Sparky. This decision was made with little-to-no input from students. As the (editorial) in The State Press explains, students should have been able to submit their drawing, or at the very least, voted on a few designs from outside sources. This new Sparky is terrible. I am ashamed to be represented by such a hideous mascot. Bring back the old Sparky!
Echo Love
Undergraduate
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