by Rachel Themistokleous ‘26

For the 2025-2026 school year, Sherwood will be getting its very first school mascot. The idea has been talked about for a very long time but never came to fruition. However, when a student approached Athletic Director Jason Woodward with the idea and actually volunteered to be the mascot, the idea took a big step towards becoming a reality.

“I think it’s a great idea,” said Woodward. “I think it’s great for school spirit. I think it’s great for the community, and it’s something that is identifiable and [a good representation] of Sherwood at games and other community events, such as Olney Days.”

The first step in the design process has begun with the updating of Sherwood’s official logo. Sherwood staff and alumni are working on tweaking the current mascot portrayed in the logo, making it appear more up to date and three dimensional, while still maintaining the traditional warrior features that the school was originally built upon. Alumni coaches, along with the student leadership council, have also started the process of designing the physical costume for the mascot, making it fit to no specific gender so it represents all students at Sherwood.

“I think Sherwood student body does a great job of staying engaged at athletic events and school functions and I think by adding a mascot, it’s not only going to enhance that [but] I’m [also] hoping we can start some new traditions [and activities] with the student body during game time,” said Woodward.

With the introduction of these new ideas, there will also have to be a face behind the mask. Woodward stated that he will hand over the head piece and the costume to SGA, so they can help with how the mascot will contribute to school spirit. The student that has talked to Woodward about becoming the mascot is very excited for this new tradition being brought to Sherwood, but has hopes to remain anonymous throughout the year.

“I’m going to try my best to not tell many people and keep the mask covered in order to remain anonymous,” said the junior. “[I am] excited to see everyone’s reaction to the new environment that we’re creating and see how games and school spirit changes with this.”
The student was first inspired by the idea when they went to a Sherwood poms competition in the fall. They noticed the other schools competing had mascots there to support the team, and was disappointed that Sherwood did not have one to support their own team. “I think it would be great to play a mascot role as the first ever one at our school, and hopefully continue on as a new tradition,” said the student.