Bobblehead Commemorates Return of IU Mascot ‘Hoosier the Bison’

Written from press release

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — July 23, 2025 — After nearly six decades on the sidelines, Indiana University’s mascot is making a comeback — and now fans can celebrate the return of Hoosier

the Bison with an officially licensed bobblehead.

The National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum on Wednesday unveiled the first-ever bobblehead featuring Hoosier the Bison, IU’s newly reinstated mascot. The limited-edition collectible is being released ahead of the mascot’s official return at Memorial Stadium on Saturday, August 30, when the Hoosiers host Old Dominion in their 2025 football season opener.

The bobblehead features Hoosier the Bison decked out in IU’s classic crimson and cream — a crimson sweater with the IU logo and striped pants — standing on a circular base bearing its name. Each bobblehead will be individually numbered and is priced at $35, plus an $8 flat-rate shipping fee. Orders can be placed now via the museum’s online store, with shipping expected in January.

The bison’s revival stems from a grassroots effort led by Indiana University students. After being absent since 1969, the mascot was officially brought back following a December 2024 resolution by the IU Student Body Congress, dubbed the “Bring Back the Bison Act.” IU Athletics formally adopted Hoosier the Bison this year, framing the move as a celebration of school tradition, unity, and spirit.

The bison originally appeared on the sidelines in 1965, thanks to another student-led push. Although enthusiasm faded by the end of the 1960s, the image of the bison remained deeply tied to IU lore. In fact, the animal’s connection to Indiana dates back more than two centuries — it was featured on territorial court documents as early as 1801, predating Indiana’s statehood.

The bobblehead’s launch coincides with a wave of promotional activity, including teaser videos from IU Athletics and excitement building for the mascot’s on-field debut next month.

For more information or to order, visit BobbleheadHall.com.

The post Bobblehead Commemorates Return of IU Mascot ‘Hoosier the Bison’ first appeared on The Bloomingtonian.