[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 63 (Wednesday, May 14, 1997)]
[Senate]
[Page S4498]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              TRIBUTE TO ``UGA V'' AMERICA'S NO. 1 MASCOT

  Mr. CLELAND. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to UGA V, the 
mascot for the University of Georgia, who, this month, was honored by 
Sports Illustrated magazine as ``America's No. 1 college mascot.'' The 
English Bulldog carries almost 100 years of tradition as the mascot for 
the university's athletic program and is one of the most recognizable 
figures in all of college sports. The current line of bulldogs can be 
traced back over 50 years to when the first UGA's grandfather guarded 
the sidelines for the football team during the 1943 Rose Bowl in 
Pasadena, CA. UGA V and his forefathers have helped lead the University 
of Georgia to build one of the most respected and successful athletic 
programs in the country. The UGA line has witnessed national 
championships in football, baseball, and gymnastics; final fours in 
men's and women's basketball; and countless Southeastern Conference 
championships in a variety of sports. UGA IV was even invited to be the 
first mascot to attend the presentation of the Heisman trophy to 
Hershel Walker in 1982.
  I would also like to recognize the outstanding efforts and dedication 
of the Seiler family of Savannah, GA. Since 1956, Frank (Sonny) Seiler 
and his family have raised UGA and his descendants. They have also 
traveled across the country attending all of the University of Georgia 
football games. Their hard work has molded a tradition like no other in 
this country.
  As did the mascots before him, UGA V gives frequently of his time to 
charitable organizations. UGA has appeared and raised money for such 
groups as the Humane Society, March of Dimes, Easter Seals, and the 
Heart Fund. In 1984 UGA IV was named ``Honorary Chairman for the Great 
American Smokeout'' campaign on behalf of the American Cancer Society. 
When not appearing in his official capacity as mascot, UGA has 
represented the State of Georgia at a number of State functions.
  It is with great pride that I congratulate the University of Georgia 
for all of its academic and athletic accomplishments, and UGA, 
``America's No. 1 mascot.''

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