It's time to pass the torch as University of Georgia announced that beloved UGA IX, known as Russ, their current mascot, is retiring and making way for UGA X. The baton will be officially passed to Russ' grandson Que, who has been filling in this year already, but in an unofficial role. The final home game on Nov. 21, with the Bulldogs facing Georgia Southern will make Que's place in history official.
''Uga is cherished by University of Georgia fans worldwide,'' Georgia president Jere W. Morehead said in a statement, according to WSB TV. ''We are grateful for Russ's dedicated service, and we look forward to welcoming Que as our new mascot.''
The 1-year-old Que made his debut at Georgia's preseason picture day for fans this year. Russ, 11, was the interim mascot during the 2009 through 2012 seasons, and official mascot for 2012 through 2014. Serving for 63 games, Russ' Georgia Buldogs have an impressive record of 44-19 during his reign, said USA Today.
"We are thrilled to have Que join our long line of mascots and he has already proven to be up to the task of serving as our official mascot,'' said J. Reid Parker Director of Athletics Greg McGarity, according to the Macon Telegraph. ''We tip our cap to Russ, who served admirably as UGA IX and has been a great mentor to Que, UGA X.
''We also thank the remarkable Seiler family for their continued support of our program in such a special way," added McGarity. The Seiler family is the Frank W. "Sonny" Seiler family of Savannah, Ga., who has supplied Georgia Bulldog mascots since 1956.
