(Lincoln, NE) -- Nebraska Athletics unveils a modernized version of Herbie Husker.
The University released the updated Herbie on Monday. Nebraska Vice Chancellor/Director of Athletics Trev Alberts and University leaders led the initiative to develop an updated and modernized version of the Herbie Husker logo and costume. The updated Herbie Husker mascot will make his first public appearance at Saturday's Red-White Spring Game. The biggest change is that Herbie is once again donning his iconic overalls.
The return to a Herbie Husker costume and logo that closely resembles the original version comes as Nebraska celebrates the 50th year of Herbie Husker. Alberts and University leadership have also placed a priority on embracing the Cornhusker tradition and the agricultural background of the state of Nebraska. "Herbie Husker has been one of the iconic symbols of Nebraska Athletics for nearly 50 years," Alberts said. "Our fans are passionate about all things related to the Huskers, and they have a particular fondness for Herbie. We are excited to present modernized Herbie Husker marks and logos and thrilled to unveil our new Herbie mascot at Saturday's spring game."
In addition to the primary Herbie Husker logo, sport specific logos were created for 10 of Nebraska's varsity programs. Nebraska Athletics has also updated its marks for Lil' Red and the Blackshirts.
The Herbie Husker character evolved out of Nebraska's trip to the Cotton Bowl following the 1973 season. Artist Dirk West designed a Cornhusker cartoon for the Cotton Bowl press headquarters, and Nebraska Sports Information Director Don Bryant later contacted West for permission to use the cartoon. West refined his original cartoon and improved some of the character's features. The new Herbie Husker character first appeared on the cover of the 1974 Nebraska Football media guide and has been a favorite of Nebraska fans over the past five decades.
The previous updated iteration of Herbie Husker character debuted in 2003.