About USF

A Preeminent Research University and AAU member with campuses across the Tampa Bay region, the University of South Florida is dedicated to empowering students to maximize their potential for lifelong success.

Rocky the Bull

Rocky the Bull got his start as a toy idea for the USF Bookstore in 1965. The first Rocky was drawn as a cartoon rendition for USF Athletics to use in their newsletters.

  • Rocky's image was first trademarked in 1974.
  • He was re-designed in 1986.
  • Today's Rocky was unveiled in 2003.
  • His birthday is celebrated during USF Week with a bash that includes free cake, give-a-ways, music, and more.
  • Rocky won the 2013 Capital One Mascot of the Year Award, finishing with a perfect record, the first-ever mascot to accomplish this feat. 
Statue of the old Rocky at homecoming and the Golden Brahmans artwork

From left, 1970: Rocky at a homecoming activity; 1974 Golden Brahmans artwork.

Rocky and the USF Cheerleaders

1977: Rocky and the USF Cheerleaders.

From the 80s: Rocky sitting across the main entrance sign and Rocky in a basketball uniform.

From left, 1985: Rocky at the Fowler Ave. entrance sign; Rocky in the 80s.

Rocky in the 90s

1997: Rocky's late 90's style.

Rocky in 2007 showing off USF spirit license plate

2007: Rocky shows off a new look and his USF spirit license plate.

Rocky the Bull holds an oversized Capital One check for $20,000

2014: Rocky wins the Capital One Mascot Challenge. He was honored on New Year's Day at the Capital One Bowl game in Orlando and received $20,000 for USF's mascot program.

2018 Rocky at the Homecoming game against UCONN

2018: Rocky wears his SoFlo uniform at the Oct. 20, 2018 Homecoming game against UCONN. Photo courtesy of USF Athletics.

Rocky dressed in a pirate costume standing along Bayshore Blvd.

2020: Rocky joins Gasparilla festivities.

Rocky on a boat with "Horns Up" hand sign and USF flag in the background

2022: Rocky set sail with USF St. Petersburg graduates at SAILebration.

Rocky jumping in the air

2023: Rocky jumps for joy on National Mascot Day.

Rocky the Bull wearing a party hat over one horn and blowing confetti towards the camera

2024: Rocky celebrates his birthday.