About Louie the Laker
Louie the Laker is a vibrant and energetic mascot who embodies the spirit of Grand Valley State University. As a lively sailor, Louie engages fans during athletic events, energizing the crowd with his playful antics and unwavering enthusiasm. He frequently makes appearances at games for various sports, including football, basketball, and more, where he rallies support for the Lakers. Beyond the field, Louie actively participates in community events, visiting local schools, charity functions, and festivals to spread joy and promote school spirit. His charismatic personality and dedication to community involvement make him a beloved figure both on and off campus, inspiring pride and connection among students, alumni, and fans.
History
Louie the Laker is the official mascot of Grand Valley State Athletics, embodying the spirited character of a sailor. His history began in 1965 when Grand Valley State College sought public input for an official mascot as its first men's teams—Golf, Basketball, and Tennis—entered intercollegiate athletics. Before this, the teams were informally known as the Bruisers, inspired by their blue, black, and white color scheme.
The United College Organization (UCO) collected submissions for mascot names, leading to a student vote among six finalists: Bruisers, Warriors, Bluejays, Ottawas, Archers, and Voyagers. In a surprising twist, a write-in vote for "Louie" was submitted by sophomore Annie Kate McDonald from Grand Haven, Mich., which gained popularity and ultimately won the vote.
In 1969, there was a movement among students to change the mascot's name, suggesting alternatives like Vikings, Griffins, and Sawyers. However, there was insufficient support for a name change, especially as the athletic programs expanded. As a result, Louie the Laker became a cherished symbol of school spirit and pride, engaging fans and bringing energy to the Grand Valley community.
Read more about Louie's history via the links below:
