Official choices (with explanations) that we got to vote on (plus a write-in option):
Nickname Choices & Descriptions
1. Blue and Gold
Marquette’s first nickname, circa 1892 – 1916, was used for our football team. Ever since then, “blue and gold” have remained Marquette’s official school colors, in athletics and throughout the university.
2. Explorers
Marquette University’s namesake, Father Jacques Marquette, was a Jesuit missionary and explorer. The spirit of exploration, whether through seeking truth and knowledge in our classrooms or seeking athletic achievements in competition, characterizes Marquette University, our students and alumni.
3. Golden Avalanche
From 1924 – 1937, Marquette’s football team was dubbed the “Golden Avalanche” by the sports media for the sight of the football players in golden helmets charging down the field, creating a “golden avalanche” of force. It is a name that represents a powerful force and overwhelming might.
4. Golden Eagles
Since 1994, Marquette University’s athletics nickname has been the “Golden Eagles,” effectively combining the gold of Marquette’s athletics traditions with the bold, swift and forceful nature of Marquette’s athletics teams.
5. Golden Knights
Knights are known for bravery, dedication and their noble defense of important causes. Our student-athletes are proud to share those same characteristics, as is our university. Knights are part of the athletics history of the Jesuits in Wisconsin, as Campion Jesuit High School in Prairie du Chien, Wis., used the knights as its nickname for 95 years, until it closed in 1975.
6. Hilltoppers
The name Hilltoppers has been connected to Marquette Athletics since 1917 and was first used because the original Marquette building was erected on top of a hill at 10th and State. The name represents a person who has attained great heights, like the lofty goals set by Marquette’s students and coaches.
7. Saints
The Marquette community has created a special tie to two saints: St. Ignatius, the founder of the Jesuits, and St. Joan of Arc, the namesake of the chapel on the Marquette campus. Saints are among our most revered figures, admired for their strength and perseverance, two qualities also found in every Marquette player and fan.
8. Spirit
In one word, Spirit captures the character and energy of our student-athletes and coaches, and the enthusiasm that our students, alumni and fans bring to every game. At Marquette, our spirit can refer to a higher power.
9. Voyagers
Voyagers take risks, explore new horizons and push ever-forward into new worlds. Like Marquette’s namesake, our student-athletes push the limits of the possible. As an academic institution, Marquette University encourages that same voyage toward truth and knowledge.
10. Wolves
The wolf is part of the crest of the family of St. Ignatius Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus, and is featured on the official seal of Marquette University. It represents strength and fierceness, two characteristics always found at the heart of our teams.
personally i like golden knights, saints, hilltoppers and golden eagles. what do you guys think of those 10?