Boys Home of Virginia has some big news to share, we have a new athletic name and mascot! For decades, the athletic team’s name was the Boys Home Hilltoppers. Although a good nickname, it lacked a mascot. In spring 2022, Donnie Costigan began his position as athletic and recreation director. As he was considering ways to promote student engagement and team spirit, he thought a new mascot would be the right change. He stated, “As an alumnus, I proudly wore the Boys Home Indians basketball jersey from 1990-1994. I took a lot of pride in wearing that jersey and being a Boys Home boy. I want the current students to experience that same level of excitement now and for many years to come.”
The Boys Home mascot challenge began in spring 2023. Initially, staff and students submitted ideas for consideration. Once it was narrowed down to three choices, the students went through two rounds of voting. In the final vote, Boys Home Bears won by an overwhelming majority. Boys Home worked with the agency Becker & Weaver to develop the new logos and branding elements. Executive Director Chris Doyle stated, “We could have purchased the rights to a generic bear logo, but we wanted something customized and unique to Boys Home. I am proud that the students had a voice in the process and look forward to the sense of pride they will have in being the Boys Home Bears.”
The new mascot and branding materials were revealed at a soccer pep rally at the end of August. Several students were asked about their thoughts on the new name and mascot. A current sophomore at Boys Home, Chris, stated, “I really like the new name. I always wondered, what is a Hilltopper? It’s not a good mascot. I am excited to have an animal as a mascot and look forward to seeing the costume.” A younger student in 6th grade, Dasmond, stated, “I really like the new mascot. I think his teeth make him look intimidating. My favorite mascot is the full-body one.”
Please join us in cheering on the Boys Home Bears as the soccer season continues and basketball starts in November. The current soccer schedule can be found by searching “soccer schedule” at boyshomeofva.org. Go Boys Home Bears!
Boys Home of Virginia, founded in 1906, provides a healthy and supportive environment for young men whose lives have been negatively impacted by poverty or family instability. Students are provided food, clothing, shelter, and guidance in a manner that supports the successful transition to adulthood along with educational and career opportunities. Boys Home, a non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization, is almost entirely privately funded by individuals, organizations, churches, and foundations.
For more information about Boys Home, or to donate, please visit the website at www.boyshomeofva.org.
