Purdue Pete could change his look

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - Purdue University is preparing to update Purdue Pete.

They plan to redesign the unofficial mascot (the official mascot is a train, the Boilermaker Special) with student input and unveil the new look later this year.  The new design has not been selected, but there are plans to modernize the mascot for the 21st century.

It has been 25 years since Pete has been updated. 

Assistant Vice President for External Relations Chris Sigurdson said it's time for a change, but Purdue fans we talked to said nothing needs to change about Purdue Pete.

"I feel like he looks pretty good the way he is. He seems pretty ripped.  I don't really see what they could do any different," said James Henke.

"I don't think he should change at all, he's what everyone knows and he's good the way he is," said Keala Anderson.

"I don't see a need for the change at all at this point," said Gene Lamberson. 

"I think he's fine the way he is. I wouldn't change anything," said Vicki Hedrick.

"We don't think he should change.  We like the traditional Purdue Pete," said Jason Hedrick. 

"Purdue Pete is not going away, but it is time for an updated image.  It's been 25 years since the last one.  Modern fans, new century, probably deserve a little bit more modern Purdue Pete.  But, the old Pete will still be around," said Chris Sigurdson.

This will be the mascot's sixth makeover.  The retired version of Purdue Pete will be preserved though the Vault Program with the Collegiate Licensing Company.