ATHENS – Uga IX, affectionately known as “Russ,” is officially retiring as Georgia's bulldog mascot at age 11, after working 25 games as an interim mascot from 2009-12, then another 38 games as Uga IX from 2012-14.
The University of Georgia will formally introduce his successor, Uga X — heretofore known as “Que”— at the Georgia-Georgia Southern football game on Saturday, Nov. 21.
''Uga is cherished by University of Georgia fans worldwide,'' said President Jere W. Morehead. ''We are grateful for Russ’s dedicated service, and we look forward to welcoming Que as our new mascot.''
The half-brother of Uga VII, Russ compiled an overall record of 44-19. He served as an interim Bulldog mascot for a total of 25 games, working nine games during the 2009 and 2010 seasons after Uga VII and VIII passed away. Russ roamed the sidelines at all 14 games during the 2011 season. He then served for two wins at the beginning of the 2012 season before being promoted as Uga IX prior to the Florida Atlantic game on Sept. 15, 2012.
Que will assume his new title after a successful three-month audition in the role as UGA’s mascot. He made appearances at the Countdown to Kickoff event in July, as well as Picture Day in August, before presiding over all seven of Georgia’s 2015 football games thus far.
''We are thrilled to have Que join our long line of mascots and he has already proven to be up to the task of serving as our official mascot,'' said J. Reid Parker Director of Athletics Greg McGarity. ''We tip our cap to Russ, who served admirably as UGA IX and has been a great mentor to Que, UGA X.
''We also thank the remarkable Seiler family for their continued support of our program in such a special way.''
The continuous line of Georgia Bulldog mascots has been owned by the Frank W. “Sonny” Seiler family of Savannah, Ga., since 1956.
