BY MIA DRAGONE
Before Stonehill athletic teams were known as the Skyhawks, with Ace hyping up the crowds, the college was known for years as the Chieftain and there was not a living mascot in sight.
Stonehill Chieftains name was replaced by Stonehill Skyhawks in 2002 after students complained that the Chieftain name was disrespectful to Native Americans. But not everyone was happy with the change, especially the alums.
When the name was changed, one alum wrote a letter protesting it.
” There are only two things every one of us agrees on. First, the decision to ban the Chieftan was made by those that do not have a lot on their daily To Do list, we will always be Chieftains. Go
Chieftains,” Sean Slater, ‘91, wrote in a letter sent to the college titled “The Stonehill Chieftain: A Symbol of Honor and Respect Like No Other.”
Sandy McCullough, a 1991 graduate and an avid fan of the Chieftains, said he was disappointed when the name was changed to the Skyhawks.
"I think there was a strong positive feeling towards the Chieftain, many looked at the name as a leader,” said McCullough
The Stonehill Chieftain era was one of school spirit, with fans filling the stands to cheer on the college's teams.
“There was a ton of school spirit. I think the fact that most people really got along was a big part of that. There was a lot of unity, everyone was there for a common reason or purpose,” said McCullough.
Prior to the 2002 change, Darcy Krinsky, class of 2004, played soccer for Stonehill when the teams were called the Chieftains.
“It wasn’t just about cheering from the sidelines; it was about being an integral part of a community that lifted each other up, no matter what. The spirit of Stonehill was woven through these collective efforts and shared experiences, creating a bond that was truly special. Whether on the field or in the stands, being part of Stonehill meant being part of a family that supported each other through thick and thin.” said Krinsky
Although she was a Chieftain, she did agree with the switch from Chieftains to Skyhawks and saw it as a positive for the school
While the mascot was changed, the pride and enthusiasm of Stonehill supporters remain unchanged, even after over 22 years.
" The love and enthusiasm everyone has for this school is unmatched. Everyone here has spirit and that is one of the best things about Stonehill,” Claire Sawyer, ‘25, said.
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