Sparty Has Ranked Second in Mascot List
USA Today placed the Michigan State University mascot in second place behind Auburn's Aubie the Tiger.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in College Life
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Michigan State University mascot Sparty earned the number two spot in a new ranking by USA Today. Auburn University mascot Aubie the Tiger took the top position in the list.
Why it matters
The ranking highlights the enduring popularity of iconic college sports figures that serve as the primary brand ambassadors for major universities. These mascots often act as central figures in school spirit and campus identity.
Sparty debuted as a 60-pound papier-mâché head in 1955 before the current version was introduced in 1989. Other notable rankings include Maryland's Testudo at 5th and Ohio State's Brutus Buckeye at 7th.
The players
Sparty
Sparty is the official costumed mascot for Michigan State University.
Aubie the Tiger
Aubie the Tiger is the official mascot of Auburn University and frequently participates in national cheerleading competitions.
Theta Xi
Theta Xi is a national fraternity that was responsible for the creation of the original Sparty mascot head.
USA Today
USA Today is a national newspaper that produces various rankings and editorial content regarding American culture and sports.
The details
The original version of the mascot was created by the Theta Xi fraternity and stood six feet tall. Auburn University's top-ranked mascot, Aubie the Tiger, holds an extensive record of 11 Universal Cheerleaders Association National Championships.
Timeline
Sparty first appeared as a papier-mâché head in 1955.
The current version of Sparty was introduced in 1989.
The article was published on October 1, 2026.
Culture Shift
This ranking follows the pattern set by the Universal Cheerleaders Association National Championships in evaluating the competitive success and popularity of campus icons. It illustrates how universities leverage long-standing mascots to maintain institutional branding.
Michigan State students and alumni may view this high ranking as a validation of the mascot's historical significance and current appeal. It serves as a point of pride for the local community that distinguishes the university's identity from rival institutions.
The takeaway
Mascots remain essential elements of university branding that evolve significantly over time to maintain student engagement. Maintaining a recognizable and high-performing mascot can contribute to a school's overall reputation and cultural influence.
Further reading
For more on the traditions shaping university culture, visit College Life.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WLNS 6 Lansing.
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