That is "Thunder" the presently retired, and generally forgotten mascot of the St. John's Red Storm from the 90s. After mercifully bucking the trend of a cartoonish or anthropomorphic mascots for most of the decade, St. John's plans to bring back a mascot (H/T to Deadspin).Clearly, that was what has been behind the declining attendance and malaise that covers St. John's basketball. No mascot to wander in the stands, scare children and pose for photos. The St. John's athletic department will even let you vote for the mascot -- including an updated version of Thunder. The choices are after the jump.
Shockingly, none of these are jokes. Here's the description for the disturbing and muscular "Thunderbolt."
A traditional expression for lightning or a symbolic representation, a thunderbolt has been a powerful symbol throughout history, and has appeared numerous times in mythology. Drawing from this powerful association, the thunderbolt is often found in military symbolism and is often depicted as the weapon of any deity associated with the stormy sky.And reminds me of a bad power company mascot from the 70s.
The "Storm Hero" is supposed to be exuding "strength, courage, confidence and tenacity." It really looks like a copyright lawsuit waiting to happen with Time Warner, the parent company of DC Comics, with The Flash.
The good news is that the voting does allow for write-in candidates. Considering Lou Carnesecca's presence hovers over the program at all times, they really just need to make him the official mascot.
