Tusky introduced himself for the first time with a surprise appearance prior to Utah's Mammoths puck drop against the Calgary Flames.
A lot has changed for the Utah Mammoth. The team suddenly relocated to Utah, underwent a massive rebrand, received thousands of fan votes to decide a new name, faced challenges at the trademark office over its attempt to become the Utah Yeti and saw the Delta Center renovated with hockey specifically in mind.
And that’s not even getting into the players’ first season on the ice — one of their most encouraging seasons in years. Yes, there have been a lot of changes. But one question had yet to be answered: Who would be the team’s new mascot?
Finally, that question has been answered:
Touting a dark blue mohawk and fur that matches the team’s Mountain Blue colors, Tusky isn’t your traditional mammoth. And it’s not just his hairstyle that sets him apart from the other mammoths.
“We named the Utah Mammoth mascot Tusky to lean into our team’s ‘Tusks Up’ rallying cry,” said Ryan and Ashley Smith, owners of the Utah Mammoth. “Tusky is going to be a big part of our community, creating memorable experiences in and out of the arena. Fans can expect to see Tusky everywhere – from Mammoth games and team events to community gatherings, schools, and hospitals. We are excited for fans to get to know Tusky this season.”
According to the team, he’s also expected to deliver some “mischievous” pranks and bring a high level of skating that’s on par with other NHL mascots across the league.
Though Utah could have followed the New York Rangers in not having a mascot, the Utah Mammoth’s decision to do so will prove to be a good one. It will help engage fans even more with the team, but more importantly, it allows the team to move past the transitional year it had under when it was known as 'Utah Hockey Club.'
Now that Tusky's here, Utah Mammoth has completed its last major step in completing its rebrand. He also serves as a replacement for 'Jazz Bear,' the Utah Jazz's mascot, who has been stepping in as a temporary mascot for the team.
Whether Jazz Bear will make his way back to Utah Mammoth games is yet to be seen, but it would be quite the sight if he reappeared at Mammoth vs. Flames game tonight and recreated this moment again:
Jazz Bear putting out some Flames tonight#NHLinUtah#UtahHCpic.twitter.com/8nIPZhQTeI
— Alma Bean (@AlmaBean23) October 31, 2024
Whatever happens, Jazz Bear won't be the only mascot at the Delta Center anymore. In fact, if fans want to see Tusky's first post, he will be on Instagram, X, and TikTok.
Welcome to the NHL, Tusky. Everyone’s looking forward to seeing what you can do.
Category: General Sports
