By Eliza O’Neill ’27 / Reporter
It is an exciting time to be a Wild Boar, as Choate’s beloved mascot has earned a spot on the list of Top 10 Connecticut High School Mascots, coming in at number eight. This recognition highlights our Boar’s unique character and celebrates the Choate community’s vibrant school spirit.
The Wild Boar’s path to recognition involved a comprehensive evaluation by Sports Illustrated, which sought out mascots that embody school spirit and foster a strong sense of community. Assistant Athletics Director Mr. Nolan Silbernagel expressed gratitude for Choate’s selection. “We were fortunate enough to be chosen by Sports Illustrated, which is looking for the best mascots in the country. That speaks volumes,” he said. He emphasized that this honor arose not from self-promotion but from the mascot’s distinctiveness — the boar’s uniqueness is what sets it apart. “You don’t see many schools with boars,” Isela Tolentino ’26 said. Mr. Silbernagel echoed this, adding that boars are rarely represented, even at collegiate and professional levels. “There are plenty of falcons and eagles but not many wild boar mascots,” he noted.
The School’s current Boar debuted in the fall of 2023 after a redesign — the first since 1995. The updated mascot, who sports a bright yellow jersey and boasts a welcoming smile, has successfully renewed enthusiasm amongst the student body. Its realistic design enhances its appeal to fans, encouraging more genuine interactions between the boar and the crowd during athletic games and school-wide events. Mr. Silbernagel emphasized, “[The boar is] a huge part of our culture.” Tolentino, a Boar performer, highlighted the immersive experience the mascot brings. “When you’re in the suit, it’s almost like you’re part of the crowd.”
The boar has made its mark on and off the field, becoming a beloved figure at many school activities.“Our school has totally embraced it. Students love calling themselves Boars and enthusiastically saying ‘Go Full Boar,’” Mr. Silbernagel said. He added that the mascot pays tribute to the School’s history, reflecting the power and grit its athletes have displayed since Choate’s inception. “I love that it displays our school shield, so it shows the history of [Choate] and that strength and determination that we hope our athletes showcase every day,” he said.
The recognition of the Wild Boar as one of Connecticut’s top mascots is a testament to the collective effort of the Choate community. Mr. Silbernagel stated, “It was a community-wide event, and seeing everyone come together [to vote] was truly amazing.” The Choate community embracing its mascot makes clear that this spirited figure will remain a cherished symbol for years to come. The mascot embodies the heart and soul of Choate, representing a schoolwide sense of pride, connection, and Wild Boar spirit. Tusks up!
