Since 1980, Xavier College Preparatory has been known for its Gator mascot, a symbol for Xavier students of the inner strength and determination of young women. But, many Xavier Gators do not know the tale that lies behind Alli Gator herself. 

Before 1980, Xavier’s mascot and  student body were known as the “Xavier Savers,” but during this time, having a school mascot was not as crucial as it is in today’s age.

“In 1980, Sister Lynn Winsor ran a contest to change the mascot. The students voted on the Xavier Gators and Alli Gator was born,” said Jennifer Tesdall, director of student activities.

“She symbolizes the fierce and competitive nature in academics, athletics and leadership, and at the same time she embodies the friendly and accepting spirit of everyone at Xavier,” added Tesdall. 

One important part that played into the decision of Xavier’s mascot was the fact that Xavier is the only school in Arizona to have a gator as its mascot. 

Initially when Alli Gator was born, the costume was only the gator’s head. There were no other parts to the costume. 

“In 1982, the Gator mascot was only a gator head made out of paper mache,” said Polly Fitz-Gerald, director of alumnae relations at Xavier. 

As time progressed, the same did with the costume of Alli Gator. “The physical appearance of the mascot has changed over the years, and it has changed because Xavier was able to have better costumes made,” Fitz-Gerald said. 

Not only did the costuming of Alli Gator progress, but her presence has grown over the years, especially in yearbooks where over time they progressively used the gator more and more.  

“Now, you don’t even think about Xavier without a gator,” said Fitz-Gerald. 

In 2010, the Allen family donated a metal gator statue that is located in front of Xavier’s activity center (AC). 

One thing that has not changed over the years of the Gator mascot is that the identity of the student behind the costume stays classified.

“One of the responsibilities of being the mascot is being discreet about your identity. It makes it a magical experience when people can’t figure out who is behind the fun,” Tesdall said. 

In order to keep this rule in check, Alli Gator is not allowed to talk to anyone while at any Xavier events that she attends. 

Though Alli Gator is not allowed to speak, Alli is allowed to give many high-fives to students. 

“People are always high-fiving and getting excited. It’s nice that they have no idea of who you are. It doesn’t take away from any of the excitement. If they knew who it was, then that would make it less fun,” said Alli, under anonymity.

The role of being the mascot is to be keeping the school spirit at an all-time high at Xavier events such as, “hyping up the crowd and being friendly to everyone … taking many photos with her fans and giving lots of high-fives,” said Tesdall. 

A notable moment Alli Gator had was one of her first Xavier events as the mascot. She mentioned how alumnae came up to her and informed her of their memories of being the Gator at Xavier as well.

“It was such a good moment. They were telling me about their stories and it was an amazing way to connect with someone,” Gator said. 

If someone is interested in fulfilling the shoes of Alli Gator, an interest form will soon be sent out and tryouts will be held.