Ace the Warhawk

History

Before 2006, the University's athletic teams were called the Indians, with Chief Brave Spirit, an anthropomorphic Native American caricature, serving as the live mascot. In 2005, the NCAA cited Louisiana–Monroe as one of 19 colleges with supposedly hostile or abusive team names, mascots, or images, threatening a postseason ban unless the nickname changed or tribal permission was obtained. The University retired Chief Brave Spirit and replaced him with a live Native American on horseback, similar to Florida State's Osceola and Renegade, but the NCAA did not remove the school from its list.

On January 30, 2006, the University announced it would rename the teams and remove all Native American symbolism. Through online voting, the public suggested and chose a new nickname. Twelve semi-finalists included Aviators, Bayou Bruins, Bayou Gators, Bayou Raiders, Marauders, Thunderbirds, Bayou Bandits, Bayou Buccaneers, Bayou Hawks, Bayou Storm, Thunder, and Warhawks. The list was narrowed to three finalists—Bayou Gators, Bayou Hawks, and Warhawks—before a selection committee chose Warhawks.

This name honored Maj. Gen. Claire Chennault, a Waterproof, Louisiana resident who commanded the American Volunteer Group of pilots in World War II, whose Curtiss P-40 fighter planes were called Warhawks. On August 30, 2006, Ace the Warhawk was officially introduced. In tribute to Chennault and Louisiana's aviation heritage, Ace always wears a black bomber jacket and flight goggles.