“Battle Born” is Nevada’s state motto referring back to Civil War days, and the phrase has been proudly adopted by the Nevada Wolf Pack. Situated in Reno along the Sierra Nevada foothills, this corner of the state is known for its beauty and revelry. Nevada’s football team dates back to 1896 when they were known as the Sagebrushers. The Wolf Pack nickname was adopted in the 1920s, and they have been a strong fixture on Nevada’s athletic landscape.
Mackay Stadium has been home to the Wolf Pack since the early 1900s, but the modern version reached completion in 1965. It’s famed Wolf Pack statue greets visitors at the main entrance signifying strength and unity. With the team joining FBS in 1992, the facility was due for a facelift. It has experienced many expansions including impressive skybox and club facilities. It features some underrated views of the eastern slopes of the Sierras, where you can see the bright white “N” formed by painted rocks on Peavine Peak. Each fall, students hike upward to add a fresh coat of white paint on this iconic symbol.
Along with the traditional college football staples including The Pride of the Sierra Marching
Band and the Nevada cheer team, this is one of the few squads that feature three mascots. All of them are siblings with Alphie being the oldest arriving in 2001. Wolfie Jr. and Luna came on the scene in 2012 and 2013 respectively and they have become instant fan favorites. They roam the sidelines bringing passion and energy into Mackay Stadium while representing the broader Wolf Pack family of fans.
When the Wolf Pack are rockin’, so is Mackay. Expect to hear loud reverberations of “WOLF! PACK!” hollered through the bleachers. Evidence is strong that this team is beloved in Reno. This city thoroughly embraces its emblem from downtown to the airport. The Wolf Pack and Reno are inextricably linked. That energy fills the stadium and surrounding tailgating lots making Nevada a notable gameday experience.
While Nevada isn’t viewed as a consistent college football powerhouse, they belong at the highest level of the sport. The fan base alone is worth the price of admission. As the fight song proclaims, they “hail to their sturdy team, loyal and true.” Wolf Pack is the perfect symbol for Nevada as it represents the pack mentality of this university. Couple that with a famous town and stunning scenery, Nevada is a unique spot that fervently celebrates their silver and blue.
