The Real Bananas

Orono, ME- Have you ever wondered who is behind the black bear mascot that runs around basketball games and skates across the ice at hockey games? Who are these mystical people? Why do we never see their face?

It was rumored once that the people in the “Bananas” suit were trouble-makers who had to pay off community service by being the mascot at games. I have recently met Banana’s in the flesh however! The Bananas mascot outfit belongs to a fraternity who gives back to the UMaine community by raising school spirit at games and other athletic events.

This fall, when the football team made it to playoff game in Iowa, the fraternity sent a member with the football team and cheering squad to help the team’s moral. It was a great addition especially since the Northern Iowa Panthers had some stiff competition with their ferocious black panther.

Banana’s got his name many decades ago when he riled up the crowd at games and people were said to “go bananas for him!” Bananas is a UMaine icon that not only raises school spirit but brings smiles to the faces of all who interact with him or see him.