Leo the Lion

Leo the Lion

Background:

SUA’s official mascot is the lion, a symbol of courage and strength.

The Chinese characters for Lion can individually be read as “sound alike” words mentor and student— an appropriate symbol for a university that prides itself on nurturing each student’s potential.

On Oct. 5, 2021, Soka University of America Athletics announced the creation of its first-ever official athletics Lion mascot. In the following months, the Soka University student body selected the mascot design and chose “Leo” as the mascot’s name. On September 13, 2022, Leo made its first appearance and officially signed a letter of Intent with Soka Athletics. On September 20, 2022, Leo announced the launch of a personal Instagram account to aid in the pursuit of driving student and alumni engagement with the Soka Athletics brand. Leo serves as a rallying point at both athletic and campus-wide events, and represents Soka University in the community.  You can follow Leo on Instagram via @LeotheSokaLion.  

Schedule Leo the Lion at your Next Event: 
Would you like Leo the Lion to make an appearance at your next event? If so, please make sure that to read all event accommodation requirements. Additionally, ALL Leo the Lion appearance requests must be submitted via the Leo Appearance Request Form for appearance considerations.

Request Timeline:
  • Requests should be received at least three weeks prior to the event.
  • Requests will be responded to in five (5) to seven (7) business days.
  • Submitting a request does not guarantee an appearance.
  • In the event that an appearance must be canceled, Soka Athletics must be given three (3) days prior notice.

Event Considerations:
  • Soka Athletics will review requests and schedule Leo’s appearances based on availability, significance, nature of the event, and exposure.
  • Scheduling conflicts and other practical matters are considered when determining whether Leo can appear at an event.
  • Significant, unscheduled events that arise over the course of the year (e.g., sports play-offs) are addressed on a case-by-case basis.
  • Requests for Leo to appear at these previously unscheduled events must also be submitted via the Leo Appearnce Request Form.
Please Note: Due to college events, academics, and time restrictions, mascot appearances at outside events are only available on a limited basis. Leo the Lion is available for appearances throughout the year; however, the summer months, as well as winter break may be harder to fulfill, due to school being out of session.

Appearance Time Limit:
  • Leo appearances can be scheduled for a maximum of one hour at any given event, with 15-minute breaks provided every 15 minutes.
  • Leo is free to take breaks whenever needed during the course of a scheduled event. 
  • If the appearance is outdoors please allow extra breaks during that allotted time.
  • The mascot is unable to perform in severe weather conditions.
  • Leo and handler reserve the right to take breaks as needed.

Event Accommodations:
  • All those submitting a requester must provide a  private and secure changing room to change in and keep belongings locked for security during the appearance.  
  • Accurate directions, location, parking space, on-site contact and on-site phone number must be provided.
  • On-site contact must be available to escort the mascot to and from transportation vehicle for security purposes.
  • Bottled water must be available at all times for the Mascot and Handler. 
  • A friendly and safe environment must be maintained. Mascots reserve the right to walk away from any appearance deemed unsafe or harmful.
Additional Information:
  • Leo will be accompanied by a Handler/Guide provided by the Athletic Department.
  • The Handler is Leo's advocate and caretaker during the appearance.
  • The requester must guide Leo and the Handler to and from the changing room before the appearance begins.
  • The changing room must be a private room where Leo can get in and out of the suit and take breaks. Leo must be able to stay anonymous while using the changing room.
  • Water must be provided in the changing room especially if the appearance is outside. If the appearance is outside Leo may need to take more frequent breaks. The Handler will let you know when a break is needed.



 



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