The Butler Bulldogs live mascot Blue II, the male English bulldog who served as Butler University’s live mascot from 2004-2013, died on Saturday, Aug. 31, due to complications from congestive heart failure. He was 9 years old.
Blue II, (pictured above) trained his puppy protégé. Blue III, or “Trip,” who made his debut during the Bracketbusters game at Hinkle Fieldhouse.
Blue appeared on the floor of every Butler Bulldogs basketball home game, select away games, and the 2010 and 2011 Final Four games. Blue retired from live mascot duties on May 20.
Over the years, Blue II became a media sensation, hobnobbing with celebrities including Colin Powell, Jimmy Fallon, and Jillian Michaels. During the 2011 Final Four in Houston, Blue also met the likes of former President George H.W. Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush.
When I covered the Butler Bulldogs title game appearance in 2010, Blue II owned the media room. In a press room filled with big wigs, everyone wanted to meet Blue II. And we all said “You’re my boy Blue.” I made sure to have my picture taken with him.
It’ll be a tough season for the Butler Bulldogs, no Brad Stevens and no Blue.
Paul M. Banks is the owner of The Sports Bank.net, an affiliate of Fox Sports. An analyst for 95.7 The Fan, he also writes on Chicago sports media for Chicago Now. President Obama follows him on Twitter (@paulmbanks)