Why Did SIU Carbondale Choose Saluki as the Name?
Back in 1951, students and fans finally decided they’d had it with the SIUC nickname, “Maroons.” It lacked something. What does a maroon look like? Who knows what it eats? Try writing an ode about it. They voted for a change, but the only suggestions that turned up in the ballot box were things like Knights, Marauders, Rebels, Egyptians, and a few Eagles. It was no decision. Merle Jones, Southern Illinoisan sports editor, credited five SIUC coaches with nominating the Saluki as the school’s new mascot. They were Abe Martin, Doc Lingle, Lynne Holder, Bill Waller, and Cecil Franklin. Merle quoted Lingle on as sharp a piece of prophecy as you’ll ever hear. “Imagine the interest such a name would create when our athletic teams travel,” Doc said back in 1951. “Nearly everybody would wonder about that name and ask questions. The novelty of it would be a talking point.
