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THE BELOVED MASCOT OF WVU
The Mountaineer mascot is one of the most cherished of all WVU athletic traditions.
Mountaineer Appearance RequestSince 1934 the buckskin-clad, rifle toting Mountaineer has been the beloved mascot of WVU. In addition to attending all major sporting events, the mascot is frequently seen around campus and the community.
Braden Adkins, 2024
Braden Adkins, a native of Richwood, West Virginia, is West Virginia University’s 70th Mountaineer mascot. Braden is pursuing an undergraduate degree in Economics and plans to enter the WVU College of Law upon the completion of his undergraduate degree.
The buckskins the Mountaineers wear are traditionally made from deer hide and tailored for each mascot. The Mountaineer also wears a handmade coonskin cap and moccasins and carries a handmade powder horn along with an American-made black powder rifle.
The Mountaineer reminds us of the strength and courage of all West Virginians and of proud traditions continuing to be passed down to future generations.
This official photograph was taken at Lion's Head Rocks in the Dolly Sods Wilderness of West Virginia's Monongahela National Forest.
Lawson Hill, 1934-35
Lawson Hill was the first official Mountaineer in 1934.
Boyd "Slim" Arnold, 1937-39
In 1937, Boyd "Slim" Arnold was the first Mountaineer to wear buckskins.
Natalie Tennant, 1990-91
In 1991, Natalie Tennant was the first female Mountaineer.
