Rocky the SRU mascot appears during a doubleheader against Mercyhurst Jan. 22 in the Morrow Field House.

Butler County is filled with a variety of people doing interesting things. This weekly feature offers snapshots of some of them and their interests by asking them five questions. The latest installment appears below.

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Head up north on I-79 and five miles off exit 105 you'll find Slippery Rock University. Although the pride of the university comes mostly from the students, Rocky, the school's mascot, is not far behind. Here are some interesting details behind SRU's famous lion.

QUESTION: When did Rocky become Slippery Rock's mascot?ANSWER: Rocky has been the pride of Slippery Rock since 2007. He made his first appearance Feb. 21, 2007, at SRU's men's basketball game against California (Pa.) University.

QUESTION: Is it true that Rocky, although the school mascot, is not the official mascot of SRU?ANSWER: Yes, Rocky is the school's mascot but not the official one. There is no official mascot of SRU. “Rocky” and “Rock Pride” are initiatives of the Athletic Department and the Student Government association.

QUESTION: Why are Rocky's colors green and white?ANSWER: The colors of Rocky are said to represent the grassy land and moss-covered rocks around Slippery Rock. He actually has a little bit of gray in him too.

QUESTION: Slippery Rock has gone through many mascots. Why did Slippery Rock chose a lion to represent their school?ANSWER: Rocky III, a lion, represents the pride SRU displays on and off campus. From 2000 to 2007, Rocky II was the face of SRU, but many felt it did not fully represent the university. SRU's mascot from the early 1980s to 2000 actually was a rock.

QUESTION: Does Rocky attend other events besides SRU athletics?ANSWER:. He regularly attends football and basketball games but can be reached by calling University Public Relations at 724-738-2091 for different events and social activities involving SRU.