Eagle mascot gets a name!
![The eagle mascot with a speech bubble that says "Hi, My Name is Vega."]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1727795820/leyden212org/nqdkuct3orftstotvni5/Vega.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1727795820/leyden212org/nqdkuct3orftstotvni5/Vega.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1727795820/leyden212org/nqdkuct3orftstotvni5/Vega.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1727795820/leyden212org/nqdkuct3orftstotvni5/Vega.png","width":828}])
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On September 30, the Leyden eagle mascot finally got a name! After a process of student and staff nominations, then a popular student vote on finalists, the name “Vega” emerged as the winner. “Vega,” a name generated by current students, is a constellation that translates into ‘Soaring Eagle,’ and it is the brightest star in the northern constellation lyra.
“I think that naming the eagle was an important move because it is the symbol of Leyden - for example Benny the Bull is so iconic and instantly represents the Bulls franchise. In a way, Vega the Eagle is representing Leyden in our community and to other schools,” said Senior Student Board Representative Adriel Carrera. “I am glad that the naming process was given to the students because it gave me and other students to come up with and vote for their own mascot name. I also think that Vega being the brightest star in the Lyra constellation represents how Leyden is important to so many people and how we shine in the Chicagoland area, especially in our sports and activities.”
While East and West Leyden have been collectively known as the Eagles since 1981, the mascot itself remained nameless and was often just referred to as “Eagle.”
"By giving the mascot a name, we can strengthen school spirit, particularly during major sports events, and create a more unified sense of identity," said Junior Student Board Representative Jonathan Guerrero. "A named mascot helps students feel a deeper connection to the school, enhancing their high school experience. It adds personality to our symbol, making it more memorable and engaging, and encourages greater involvement and pride among the student body."
Also, with the launch of the mascot name, a new costume debuted this year and will make appearances at upcoming events such as homecoming, games and events.
“As Leyden celebrates its 100th anniversary, it presented a timely opportunity for current students to name the mascot, which will carry on for future generations of Eagles,” said Superintendent Dr. Nick Polyak.