Valencia College, a community college in Orlando, Florida, has a unique team mascot. The mascot, known as the "Matador," represents the college's strong and fierce spirit. The Matador is a symbol of determination, courage, and perseverance, qualities that the college instills in its students. The choice of the Matador as the team mascot is significant for Valencia College. It reflects the college's commitment to promoting diversity and celebrating different cultures. The Matador is a traditional Spanish bullfighter who showcases bravery and skill in the face of danger.
More than 11,000 votes were cast for Valencia College’s new mascot. You chose the Puma, and we agree…this is one cool cat.
Students, faculty, staff, alumni and the community were encouraged to vote for their favorite mascot online and when the voting concluded on March 29, the puma was the clear winner, with 45 percent of the vote. The college no longer fields athletic teams, having eliminated athletics in 1998 after students elected to reroute those funds to provide computer labs and free tutoring for all students.
The Matador is a traditional Spanish bullfighter who showcases bravery and skill in the face of danger. This choice also reflects the vibrant Hispanic community that is prevalent in the college's student population. The Matador serves as a symbol of unity and pride among the Valencia College community.
Valencia College team mascot
Valencia College has unveiled its new mascot – and it’s the Valencia Puma.
“We believe it is the perfect mascot to embody the spirit and characteristics of our students, alumni, staff, faculty and our communities — strength, resilience, perseverance and the ability to overcome obstacles,” said Dr. Kathleen Plinske, president of Valencia College.
Florida pumas, sometimes known as panthers, were listed as an endangered species in 1973, but their population has grown tenfold since then. These strong animals thrive in an interconnected community, where they interact with each other regularly.
At the request of student leaders, the college began the search for a new mascot in November 2021. College officials received more than 650 suggestions, ranging from a velociraptor to a tomato. Led by student government members, a committee whittled the choices down to three finalists: an orange, a cardinal and a puma.
Students, faculty, staff, alumni and the community were encouraged to vote for their favorite mascot online – and when the voting concluded on March 29, the puma was the clear winner, with 45 percent of the vote. The orange received 22 percent of the vote, while the cardinal received 33 percent.
What’s next for the Valencia College Puma? A mascot costume, of course.
Valencia officials are working with industry experts to design a puma mascot costume and hope to have one ready to unveil in fall 2022. The student body will also be asked to vote on a name for the new mascot in the fall.
Valencia College Puma merchandise will be available at the Valencia College campus stores soon.
Formerly known as the Matadors, Valencia College retired that mascot in 2010. The college no longer fields athletic teams, having eliminated athletics in 1998 after students elected to reroute those funds to provide computer labs and free tutoring for all students.
Submit a request, tell us more about what you're creating and we'll connect you with the resources to help.
It represents their collective strength, resilience, and the ability to overcome challenges. The Matador embodies the college's mission of empowering its students to succeed academically and professionally. The Valencia College Matador can be seen at various sporting events and campus activities, rallying and inspiring students, athletes, and supporters alike. The presence of the Matador is a reminder of the college's unwavering commitment to excellence, both inside and outside of the classroom. Overall, the Valencia College team mascot, the Matador, represents the college's values of courage, determination, and celebrating diversity. It serves as a symbol of unity and pride for the college community as they strive for success and overcome obstacles together..
Reviews for "Setting the Standard: The Valencia College Team Mascot as a Role Model"
1. Megan - 2 stars
I was really disappointed with Valencia College's team mascot. The chosen mascot, a generic lion, lacks creativity and originality. It looks like something you would find at any other college or school. I was hoping for a unique and memorable mascot that would represent the spirit and values of Valencia College. Unfortunately, the lion falls short in this aspect. It's just another generic mascot that fails to leave an impression.
2. John - 1 star
Valencia College's team mascot is a complete letdown. The lion just feels uninspired and unoriginal. It lacks imagination and fails to capture the essence of the college. I was expecting a mascot that would evoke pride and excitement, but instead, we got a lion that could easily be mistaken for any other team's mascot. It's a disappointing choice that doesn't do justice to Valencia College or its students.
3. Jennifer - 2 stars
I have to say, I was underwhelmed by Valencia College's team mascot. The lion seems like a safe, cookie-cutter choice that lacks any real personality or uniqueness. It doesn't stand out compared to other college mascots, and it fails to ignite any sense of school spirit or excitement. I wish Valencia College had chosen a mascot that was more innovative and representative of the college's identity. The lion is just too generic to leave a lasting impression.