Handsome Dan

Original_Handsome_Dan_Yale's_mascot

Inflatable_Handsome_Dan

Handsome_Dan_Kingman

Handsome Dan is the mascot of Yale University, one of the most prestigious Ivy League institutions in the United States. The mascot is a live bulldog and has been a symbol of Yale's athletic teams since the late 19th century.

History

The tradition of Handsome Dan began in 1889 when Andrew B. Graves, a member of the Yale College class of 1892, purchased the original Handsome Dan from a local blacksmith in New Haven, Connecticut. Graves trained the bulldog to respond to the cheer "Brek-ek-ek-ex, ko-ax, ko-ax," which is a line from Aristophanes' play "The Frogs."

Handsome Dan quickly became a beloved figure at Yale, attending football games and other athletic events. The original Handsome Dan passed away in 1898, but the tradition continued with subsequent bulldogs taking on the name and role.

Successors

Since the original Handsome Dan, there have been numerous successors, each continuing the legacy. The current Handsome Dan, as of 2023, is Handsome Dan XIX, also known as "Kingman." Each Handsome Dan is cared for by a designated handler, often a member of the Yale community, who ensures the mascot's well-being and training.

Role and Activities

Handsome Dan attends various Yale athletic events, including football, basketball, and ice hockey games. The mascot also participates in university ceremonies, alumni events, and other special occasions. Handsome Dan is often seen wearing a Yale jersey or other university-themed attire.

Significance

Handsome Dan is more than just a mascot; he is a symbol of Yale's spirit and tradition. The bulldog represents the tenacity, loyalty, and strength of the university's athletic teams and student body. The presence of Handsome Dan at events fosters a sense of unity and pride among students, alumni, and fans.

Related Pages

• Yale University
• Ivy League
• Bulldog
• College Mascot
• Yale Bulldogs football
• Yale Bulldogs men's basketball
• Yale Bulldogs men's ice hockey

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