Pepperdine University Athletics brought out an updated version of the school’s mascot, Willie the Wave, alongside the men’s and women’s basketball teams at this year’s Orange and Blue Madness. The unveiling took place during the university’s Waves Weekend, a three-day event to welcome back alumni.
“Our goal was to create a costume that allowed for more athletic movements, easier maneuvering and friendlier features,” Karina Herold, Pepperdine’s senior associate director of athletics, said in a statement on the Waves website.
The latest mascot has a smaller hand size, “a more toned physique” and shoes (rather than the customary flip flops). Willie also has an updated wardrobe, including basketball and volleyball uniforms.
The department decided to redesign the mascot earlier this year.