Flames Spirit and Tradition

THE NICKNAME

The Liberty University athletics teams have been nicknamed the Flames since 1974, when the student body chose the Flames over several other options. The decision was based upon the school’s motto, “Knowledge Aflame.” Liberty began in 1971 as Lynchburg Baptist College with green and gold as the school’s colors. In 1976, the name was adjusted to Liberty Baptist College, and the colors were changed to red, white, and blue. The school once again changed its name in 1985 to Liberty University. However, throughout the shifts, “Flames” remained the nickname for Liberty’s athletics teams. In 1980, the eagle was designated as the Flames’ new mascot because of the patriotic symbolism and connection with the school name. It was designed with the Flames’ nickname in mind. Thus, a flaming torch clutched in the eagle’s left talon was included in the original mascot renderings.

1972-79

1980-84

1984-85

1995 1980-81

1983-88

1985-99

2000-03

2003-13 2013-PRESENT