Dec. 11, 2015 DEKALB, Ill. -- Northern Illinois University mascot, Victor E. Huskie, is headed to Steamboat Springs, Colorado, to compete in the Second annual Steamboat Mascot Stampede, hosted by The Steamboat Ski Resort. Victor E. Huskie joins 19 other mascots beginning today for three days of competition and mascot development.

"When Victor E. Huskie was approached with this opportunity, we knew it would be an amazing experience for him," said NIU's Assistant Athletic Director of Marketing and Game Experience, Morris White. "We have no doubt he will have a lot of fun promoting NIU and learning some new tricks.”

The event kicks off with the Mascot Ski & Dance party where guests can hit the slopes with their favorite mascots then dance the night away in the base area. Saturday’s events start with a Welcome Parade and Charades Competition which encourage fans to get up close and personal with the mascots, followed by Snow Bowling, Saucer Pull, Mascot Mingling and the Tug-O-War. Sunday’s competitions include Snow Bike Slalom, Mascot Dance Off and Obstacle Challenge concluding with the Mascot Champion Crowning Ceremony on the Steamboat Stage.   

All events take place in the base area or on the snow adjacent to the base area, and spectators will be able to get up close and personal with their favorite collegiate mascots, take photos and get autographs. For a complete list of Steamboat Mascot Stampede events and information visit www.steamboat.com/mascots.

Upon his return, NIU fans can catch Victor E. Huskie next at the basketball doubleheader on Saturday, Dec. 19. The NIU men’s basketball team opens the day against Florida International at 2:00 p.m., followed by the Huskie women's basketball team against Drake at 4:30 p.m. in the NIU Convocation Center.