Over 3,500 fans voted for the new Roomie costume design. His new look was revealed at the first home football game. Annie Goodman/The Lion’s Roar

During the Spring 2016 semester, the university announced that Roomie the Lion, the school’s mascot was due to receive a makeover and launched a poll for fans to vote on the new look between two choices.

“More than 3,500 Lion fans voted on Roomie’s new look,” said Ashley Richardson, media content coordinator of University Communications and Creative Services. “We wanted to give our fans the opportunity to have input when choosing the new look.”

The costume was revealed at the first home football game of the season on Saturday, Sept. 9. 

“Roomie gets an update periodically over the years,” said Richardson. “It has been almost 10 years since the last ‘new’ Roomie, so it was time for a refresh to keep up with changing trends.”

Richardson is excited to be revealing Roomie’s new look but is aware that some people may not like the change.

“We are looking forward to having the community see a new take on a beloved member of our Southeastern family,” said Richardson. “We realize sometimes change is hard, but Roomie was definitely ready for a new look, and we hope all of lion nation is on board to support him.”

Richardson feels Roomie means a lot more to the university than just a mascot for sporting events.

“Roomie is a larger-than-life symbol of our lion pride,” said Richardson. “Fans of all ages love ‘Lion Up’ with Roomie the Lion. His long history here on campus connects our alumni and current students, and he is a sign of unity for the whole community.”