DELHI, N.Y. (August 25, 2017) – SUNY Delhi President Michael Laliberte and Director of Athletics Bob Backus helped usher in a new era to Broncos athletics on Friday, as they welcomed the school’s new mascot, Blaze, as part of the school's convocation ceremony for the 2017-18 academic year. Blaze replaces its cousin, Lucky, and like its predecessor and relative, will be active at many SUNY Delhi events, including athletic and school functions.
“It is really exciting to welcome Blaze to our campus family,” related Laliberte. “Blaze has familiarity with SUNY Delhi, because its cousin, Lucky was our former mascot. So, we know that Blaze is ready to provide our athletes with a great deal of support, as well as serving as a goodwill ambassador in the community, representing for our teams and our campus. I look forward to joining Blaze, to cheer on the Broncos this season!”
“On behalf of the athletic department, we are happy to welcome Blaze to the Bronco Nation as our new mascot,” said Backus. “As we continue to transition towards NCAA Division III athletics, Blaze will help us blaze the trail.”
Blaze was officially introduced at the convocation Friday by Tomás Aguirre, SUNY Delhi’s new Vice President for Student Life. Blaze’s cousin and predecessor, Lucky, graduated from SUNY Delhi in May after a successful run as the Broncos’ mascot, and has moved on to take a job with the Denver Broncos. Blaze trots in to Delhi at a monumental time, as the institution enters its third year as a four-year college and begins its transition towards NCAA Division III. The first-year mascot brings plenty of youth, excitement and personality, and has already been warmly received by the community. Everyone at SUNY Delhi wishes Blaze the best of luck!
