Rattlers mascot celebrates a century at St. Mary’s University

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June 06, 2025

The Rattlers turn 100 

The emblematic snake that charms the hearts of students and alumni became part of the official verbiage for St. Mary’s University Athletics 100 years ago. The reptilian references evolved later into the beloved mascot, Rattler Man.  

1925
The Rattler student newspaper announces the Athletic teams will be known as the “Rattlers” and the name would be incorporated into the “school yells.”  

1960s
A live snake was used as a mascot by a brave handler, Don Ganter (CL ’63). 

1994
The Adventures of Rattlerman comic strip by Robert Arista (B.A. ’95), published in The Rattler student newspaper, sparked the anthropomorphized character that evolved into Rattler Man.  

2012
The current version of the Rattler Man mascot begins shaking his tail across campus.  

The first mention of the new St. Mary’s University mascot name in The Rattler in 1925.
A live snake held by Don Ganter (CL ’63), right.
The unveiling of the first Rattler Man!
A copy of The Adventures of Rattlerman comic strip by Robert Arista (B.A. ’95).
Rattler Man being led by the hand by two children.
A comic of Rattler Man suiting up for the Men’s Basketball team.
The current version of Rattler Man enjoying the food of Fiesta Oyster Bake.
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