Notre Dame Leprechaun Trades Fists for Footballs

The University of Notre Dame has unveiled a new logo for its iconic Fighting Irish mascot, trading his raised fists for a football. The leprechaun's scowl remains the same, but the subtle change reflects the school's shift towards sports-specific branding.

"The Leprechaun represents the tenacious and determined spirit of the Fighting Irish, a relentless desire to seize every opportunity with unity, clarity and purpose what though the odds be great or small. This logo, drawn from a legacy known around the world, represents Fighting Irish Football."

This is just the beginning, as Notre Dame plans to roll out more sports-specific logos in the future. The leprechaun has been a symbol of the school's spirit for 60 years, with its pugnacious version debuting on the cover of Time magazine in 1964.

The school credits artist David Nott for helping to create the new logo, which pays homage to the legacy of the Fighting Irish while embracing the team's football identity.

Notre Dame fans can expect more changes coming their way. In April, the university announced that it will be expanding alcohol sales at basketball, football, and hockey games, starting with the 2025 football season. This move marks a shift from premium seating only to general admission seating as well.

Fighting Irish fans will see concession stands selling alcohol at Notre Dame Stadium, Purcell Pavilion at the Joyce Center, and Compton Family Ice Arena, possibly accompanied by the new logo.