Violets or Bobcats…Who Are We?

The Violet is NYU’s original and more commonly used “mascot”, tied directly to our school color and long history. One theory is that the name reflects tradition, elegance, and that at NYU, knowledge blooms just like the violets that once grew in Washington Square Park. Another theory is that the violet was chosen because it was the flower associated with Athens, the center of learning in the Ancient world. For over a century, our school colors have been violet and white, bolstering the nickname. There was even a time in the 1980s when a student dressed as a violet and served as the school mascot. But how could something as dainty and elegant as a violet possibly intimidate our sports opponents?

In hopes of finding a fiercer mascot, the Bobcat was adopted in 1984. Rumor has it that this mascot was chosen because of a bobcat Albert Gallatin, NYU’s founder, rescued on a hunting trip. Another theory, that’s a little easier to believe, is that the name was inspired by Bobst Library’s catalog system, which was nicknamed BobCat. Ever since, we’ve technically been the NYU Bobcats, but it doesn’t seem like that name stuck. We can’t seem to let go of the violets. Today, NYU Athletics refers to us as the “Violet Storm” but encourages us to “Tear Up” the competition with our Bobcat claws. So who are we really? It depends on who you ask.

Whether you choose to cheer us on as the Violets or the Bobcats, one thing is undeniable: NYU Athletics is on a historic run. Who are we? We’re a program defined by excellence, resilience, and a culture of winning that spans every team and every season.

The women’s basketball team followed up their back-to-back national championships with another incredible season, advancing all the way to the Final Four. Between March 2023 and March 2026, the Violets won an astounding 91 consecutive games, breaking the record for the most consecutive wins in DIII women’s basketball history, before falling to Scranton in the national semifinal.

The men’s basketball team also put together a strong and resilient season, finishing 18–9 and fourth in the UAA. They earned an at-large bid to the NCAA Division III Tournament and advanced past the first round with a 65–53 win over Gettysburg before falling to Wesleyan in the second round. Despite the early exit, the team showed grit through injuries, a new coaching staff, and a roster full of new faces, building a culture that sets a strong foundation for next season.

Across the board, NYU teams are making national noise. The women’s swimming & diving team won their first-ever NCAA Division III National Championship, while the men’s cross country delivered another top finish at nationals. And these are just a few highlights.

Mascot confusion aside, one thing is clear: NYU is winning. If you want to feel that energy for yourself, catch a game or meet in Paulson. You’ll find me on the sidelines and at halftime with Spirit Cheer, at least for a little while longer. As a 2026 graduate, I’ll soon be retiring my poms, closing out my time on the sidelines alongside one of the most exciting eras in NYU Athletics.