5 of the Most Unusual Texas High School Mascots

In the world of Texas high schools, there are a few mascots that can be considered staples. Bulldogs, Panthers, Tigers, Owls, Mustangs, all of these are tried and true fixtures in the mascot realm. However, with a little digging, one can find some not-so-run-of-the-mill characters scattered throughout the state. In honor of the return of football season, here are five of the most unusual high school mascots in the Lone Star State.

1. Hamlin Pied Pipers

Photo: Facebook/Elgin Family Dental

To quote a news story that became a viral sensation several years ago, “…hide your kids…”because the Hamlin Pied Pipers are coming for you!” With a name straight out of a story book, the Pied Pipers feature one of the most unique names in the state. In 2016, the varsity football team managed to win the district title, and both the townsfolk and student body are looking forward to another spectacular season in 2017.

2. Hutto Hippos

Photo: Facebook/Hutto Hippo Family Dental

At first glance, a hippo may not seem like the most ferocious of all mascots, however, their large, blubbery exterior belies their ferocious nature. In fact, hippos are among the world’s most dangerous animals.  So, really they make the perfect mascot for a school seeking to intimidate its opponents! The Hutto Hippos went 7-4 in the 2016 football season, and, as always, are looking forward to a new year with new possibilities.

3. Springtown Porcupines

Photo: Facebook/Springtown Porcupine Athletics

The Springtown Porcupines are proud to show off their “Pojo” pride, and with a mascot as distinct as the porcupine, who can blame them? After a 7-4 season in 2016, the Porcupines will kick off the 2017 season against Decauter on Aug. 26.

4. Kress Kangaroos

Photo: Facebook/Gail Willams

It is no secret that a kangaroo is more at home in the Australian outback than in the Panhandle of Texas, but the small community of Kress did not allow that to stop them from choosing the jumping marsupial as their mascot. Last year was a tough one for the “Fighting Roos,” as they ended the season with a 2-8 record. However, a new year brings new beginnings and 2017 looks to be a football season full of promise for the newest set of varsity Roos.

5. New Braunfels Unicorns

Photo: Facebook/Cat Country 98.9 – WUUU FM

The New Braunfels Unicorns have become a must-have on any list comprised of unique mascots. In 2014, Seventeen Magazine included the Unicorns on their list of “Weirdest High School Mascot Names,” and since then the school has been featured on many other mascot inventories. In 2016, New Braunfels fought their way into the first round of the Texas football state playoffs, but after a tough loss to Brennan, they closed out their season with a 6-5 record.  The Unicorns will host Alamo Heights on Sept. 1, as they gear up for another successful year under the Friday night lights.