A History of Butler University Football
Butler University, located in the state of Indiana, boasts a rich and storied football history. The Butler Bulldogs football team competes in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) and is a member of the Pioneer Football League (PFL). From its humble beginnings in 1887 to its current standing in the FCS, Butler football has woven itself into the fabric of the university's identity. This article explores the key moments, traditions, and changes that have shaped the program over the years.
Early Years and the "Christians" Nickname (1887-1919)
Butler's football journey began in 1887, marking the genesis of a program that would evolve significantly over the decades. For over three decades, Butler’s athletic teams were known as the “Christians.”
The early years of Butler football saw the program establish its roots and build a foundation for future growth. While specific details from this era may be scarce, it's clear that these formative years were crucial in developing a football culture at Butler University.
The Bulldog Emerges: A Mascot is Born (1919)
The year 1919 marked a pivotal moment in Butler's athletic identity. Numerous losses in the 1919 football season caused Butler’s followers to grow weary of the "Christians" nickname. A new identity was needed, and serendipity played a hand in its arrival. About that time, the mascot of a Butler fraternity-a bulldog named Shimmy-wandered into the Collegian office. Shimmy, it seemed, was not easily shaken.
An idea was born. The next school paper came out with a big Page One cartoon showing Shimmy the bulldog, labeled “Butler,” taking a bite out of the seat of the pants of a figure labeled John the Baptist. By default, Shimmy was the first “Butler Bulldog” mascot at Butler in 1919 thanks to his timely appearance in the Butler Collegian office on that fortuitous fall day.
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The adoption of the "Bulldogs" nickname was more than just a change in name; it represented a shift in the program's image and a rallying point for fans and athletes alike. Shimmy's legacy as the first "Butler Bulldog" mascot is a testament to the power of chance and the enduring appeal of a good mascot.
The Era of Live Mascots
Shimmy was also followed in duty by a number of unofficial-official live English bulldog mascots kept by Butler students, fraternity members, and even parents of student-athletes. The presence of a live “mascot” was a tradition that eventually faded in the 1970s. For many years, the presence of a live bulldog on the sidelines became a beloved tradition, embodying the spirit and tenacity of the team. These canine companions became symbols of the university and added a unique charm to game days.
The eventual fading of the live mascot tradition in the 1970s marked the end of an era, but the legacy of these beloved bulldogs continues to resonate with Butler fans.
The Sellick Bowl: Home of the Bulldogs
The team plays its home games at the 7,500 seat Bud and Jackie Sellick Bowl (historically Butler Bowl) in Indianapolis. The Sellick Bowl has been the site of countless memorable moments in Butler football history, providing a venue for players and fans to come together and celebrate their shared passion for the game.
Pioneer Football League (PFL) and FCS Competition
As a member of the Pioneer Football League (PFL), Butler competes against other institutions that share a commitment to athletic excellence and academic achievement. The PFL provides a competitive environment for Butler to showcase its talent and strive for conference championships. The team competes in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS).
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The Gridiron Classic
From 2006 through 2009, the PFL and Northeast Conference (NEC) staged the Gridiron Classic, an exempted postseason football game that matched the champions of the two conferences which were technically members of Division I FCS, but which were not the recipients of automatic invitations to the football championship playoff at the time. This postseason opportunity provided a platform for Butler to test its mettle against top competition and gain valuable experience on a national stage.
Visual Identity
The Butler Athletics Visual Identity Guide outlines the standards and regulations for the use of Butler's logos, colors, and fonts. These guidelines ensure that the university's brand is presented in a consistent and professional manner across all platforms.
Future Schedules
Butler's football program is committed to providing its student-athletes with a challenging and rewarding experience. The team's future schedules are carefully crafted to provide a balance of competition and opportunity, ensuring that Butler remains a competitive force in the PFL and the FCS.
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