The official mascot of the University of California, Oski, has been a tradition at the school since making his debut on September 26, 1941 during the football season-opener against St. Mary's. Prior to his arrival, live mascots were used at Memorial Stadium with varying degrees of success. It was decided in 1940 that a costumed mascot would make a more suitable alternative to a live bear.
Named after the popular turn of the 20th century "Oski Wow-Wow" yell, the Cal mascot is selected by the Oski Committee, a governing body that oversees all aspects of caring for the lovable, 5-foot-7-inch, size 15 tennis shoe wearing Bear. Oski's identity is unknown to everyone, with the exception of the committee.