Louisiana State University - Gumbo Yearbook (Baton Rouge, LA)

Page 20 text:

Students push forward in the early morning sunshine to get a better look at the baby Mike II. Coach Higginbotham evinces a spirited growl from the little Bengal during Mike II Day festivities.

Page 19 text:

. . . football games. An evening of football usually begins with the hustle and bustle of pre-game ex- citement. There ' s a touch of chill in the air, and gay chrysanthemums bloom on every feminine lapel. The towering stadium lights cast a glow over the multi- colored stands, swirling cheerleaders and stalwart purple and gold on the field. Despite several heart- breaking losses, spirits ran high. As ihe scores mount- ed, lor better or worse, the band and cheerleaders led the crowd in cheering on their Tigers. Blood and sweat and determination were poured out on the field as the teams clashed. When halftime rolls around, a colorful show begins. The inarching bands and major- ettes of both schools contribute to the pageantry. An extra lift was provided the fans this year after their grief over the death of our I eloved Mike. Looking terriblv tiny in his huge cage, but roaring with all the true Ole War Skule spirit . . . These freshman boys at the first game seem undaunted by the humiliation of being seen in public in the required pajamas. The audacity of our green and blue rival sometimes has to be erased here under the supervision of several disgruntled LSU students. Coach Dietzel sends in a player during the Texas A .-M game which opened the 1956 season.

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. . . Mike II arrived. Purchased at the price of $2,500 from Audubon Park Zoo in the wicked city to the south, the little Bengal fills the role of mascot. A warm welcome was extended to the newcomer as classes were dismissed to let the students join the celebration. Very dashingly, Mike II arrived at three A.M. and had to wait until daylight to be greeted. Several students can testify to the all-night sitting stand. Come morning, though, the cheerleaders and crowds pressed forward to get a better look at the new mascot. The original Mike, after whom the Tiger mascot was named, addresses the crowds during welcoming ceremonies. Even before Mike II arrived on the campus, much preparation went into making him comfortable, such as repairs on his cage. And here he is! Our own Mike II giving a Tiger roar in the true Ole War Skule tradition. ...