Now, "The American" is the official name of the 14-team conference, and its rebrand is represented by a beefed-up generic eagle mascot named "Soar," sporting an Allen Iverson-esque arm sleeve.

It also introduced the first official collegiate conference mascot: Soar the Eagle. "A brand is more than a name," commissioner Tim Pernetti said in a release.

IU has tried mascots in the past, but nothing ever really worked. The bison, Mr. Hoosier Pride, Ox the Bulldog, nothing ever stuck as a mascot.

Georgia Southern University’s live bald eagle mascot, “Freedom,” has died. The university announced that Freedom died on Saturday. He served as an ambassador for Georgia Southern and ...

The American noted Soar is the first official mascot for a conference. "Soar's very identity reflects our DNA of innovation, grit and service," it said.

STATESBORO, Ga. — Georgia Southern University’s live bald eagle mascot, “Freedom,” has died. The university announced that Freedom died on Saturday. He served as an ambassador for Georgia ...