Castleton University Still Hunting for Missing Mascot

23 Nov 2015

Castleton University’s green-caped Spartan mascot has not been seen for over a month and officials say they want him back.

The costume, known as ‘Sparty’, disappeared from the Student Government Association offices sometime between late September and the middle of October.

Matthew Patry, Castleton’s Student Activities Director, says Sparty is usually kept in the storage locker but had been put in a bag under a desk in the offices after the closet shelves collapsed.

Everybody keeps saying Happy #SPD and wearing green. Must be #SpartanPride Day. We see you in your 343 green, #Castleton. #WeAreCastleton

A photo posted by Castleton University (@castletonedu) on Mar 17, 2015 at 7:32am PDT

He said he expected the costume to show up on Halloween, but unfortunately it didn’t.

The Student Government Association bought the mascot last year for $1,700, to replace one that had started to look tired and worn out. The University is back to using the old mascot for now, at least until the new Sparty costume is located.

Starting Monday, join in on the countdown to Homecoming! Once again, we’ll be hiding a Sparty bobble head each day! We’ll post a photo here which will be your clue to Sparty’s location. #FindSparty, snap a pic, tag us on here or Twitter and we’ll share! #WeAreCastleton

A photo posted by Castleton University (@castletonedu) on Sep 18, 2015 at 11:03am PDT

According to the Rutland Herald, University officials have claimed that if the mascot is returned in good condition, they will consider the matter settled.

Sparty’s disappearance has caused quite a stir on social media – some have voiced concerns regarding the mascot’s whereabouts:

MayB got tossed out by accident¿ if just in trashbag Castleton University’s mascot has been missing for a month https://t.co/VWIXMcqiHO

— Vikki (@GrammieV3) November 23, 2015

While others are less sympathetic:

The most pathetic college mascot in the country is missing for a month & #Castleton U. just noticed & wants it back https://t.co/KJ0Qap8P4a

— Todd Thomas (@toddjthomas) November 23, 2015

Will Castleton University ever locate their missing mascot?

Image via Gannett-CDN.