“Why would we get rid of the leprechaun fighting when they are called the Fighting Irish?” said Bobby Robacker, a longtime Notre Dame fan.
When you think of Notre Dame athletics, the iconic leprechaun comes to mind. Known worldwide today, this iconic logo has become a powerful symbol of the Fighting Irish and its determination on and off the field. First introduced in the early 1960s, the mascot’s design became a well known part of the school’s athletic identity. Now, decades later, a change has been made. Worldwide Notre Dame fans have a lot of mixed feelings about this new logo.
“I think it’s a good alternate logo,” said Jake Jones, a senior at Marywood, who’s been a lifelong Notre Dame fan. “I like the new edition of the football. Compared to most of our sports programs there, football is probably the most well known sports team. I don’t see them changing any other logos at the school.”
Change can be good whether you’re a die hard fan or just enjoy watching the sport, every fan is impacted differently from this change. When it comes to a new logo, the culture of the franchise will never change.
Changing a logo after 60 years can make fans excited for the new change, but sometimes it can be a touchy subject to others. “I hate this new logo,” said Robacker. “I believe it should be used for specialty games only.”
Buying merchandise can be tough. “If I’m forced to, I will,” said Robacker.
On the other hand, fans will still support their team with the change. “I would still definitely buy the new logo merch,” said Jones.
Contact the writer: [email protected]
