12th Sparky unveiled

Arizona State’s initial unveiling of its upgraded mascot was part news conference, part show, Sparky stalking around and pumping his fists in front of a honeycombed backdrop, surrounded by cheerleaders and a marching band. Given a second shot at a first impression, the school went a more subdued route, revealing the newest Sparky through social media outlets on Wednesday. Yes, the decision to introduce the upgraded Sparky online was geared toward driving traffic to Arizona State’s Twitter and Facebook pages. Changing Sparky’s appearance is nothing new. Arizona State has transformed its mascot – the one in the costume, not the logo – 12 times since former Walt Disney artist Berk Anthony first drew him in 1946, including six times since 2000.

Associated Press