Gar-Field High School Announces New Mascot Finalists

WOODBRIDGE, VA — Gar-Field High School has identified four finalists for its new mascot, according a letter sent to community members on Tuesday. Community members have until Tuesday, May 11 to vote for their favorite mascot online.

Gar-Field identified Red Wolves, Red Hawks, Phoenix, and Griffins as the new mascot options. In a Facebook post, the school also connected each potential mascot to the school's history and culture.

The final mascots were chosen by a mascot selection committee based on submissions from a community preference survey. The selection committee consisted of current students and teachers, alumni, and administrators.

"In addition to identifying these finalists, the committee also discussed the importance of maintaining important aspects of Gar-Field’s identity," Mathison wrote in the letter to community members. Gar-Field will still be known as the "School of Champions," and will continue to use the "Big Red" theme with its new mascot.

"I encourage all members of the Gar-Field School Community to participate in the survey as we look to select a mascot which reflects our community values and identity," Mathison wrote.

On Facebook, the community connections varied between each mascot finalist. Red Wolves "are part of a pack, which represents the closeness of the Gar-Field community," the post said. Hawks were chosen due to their "power, courage, and strength."

"A Griffin denotes strength, courage and leadership," the school wrote. The mythological Griffin, which has the head and wings of an eagle with the body of a lion, also "reflects the diversity of our community," according to the school.

The last finalist is the phoenix, which represents "strength, perseverance, and resilience. It instills a sense of never giving up," according to the school.

Community members can vote for their favorite mascot finalist online. Voters are encouraged to select their two favorite finalists. Voting is scheduled to end on Tuesday, May 11.