🐾Mascot: "Bearkats"

Meet the Bearkats, a mascot that's both tough-sounding and surprisingly cute The Bearkat, used by several schools including Sam Houston State University, isn't actually a real animal, but it's a blend of the toughest qualities of bears and cats. The name originated from a local saying, "Tough as a Bearkat!" and was chosen to reflect the strength and resilience of the team. Interestingly, the spelling used to vary, but it's now standardized as one word with a "k" to avoid confusion with real animals like the kinkajou, which is sometimes called a bearcat. Despite its mythical origins, the Bearkat has become a beloved and fierce symbol for many schools, especially in South Dakota where it's particularly popular 🏆. So, the next time you hear about Bearkats, remember they're all about being tough and proud 🛡️