Unofficial History of the Gorlok

What is a Gorlok? The Gorlok is Webster University's school mascot. It is a mythical creature that was designed by Webster staff and students through a school contest. It is reported to have the paws of a speeding cheetah, horns of a fierce buffalo, and the face of a dependable Saint Bernard. The myth of the Gorlok "embodies the highest standards of speed, agility, and stamina in an atmosphere of fairness and good conduct." (Tom Hart, Director of Athletics) Where did the name Gorlok come from? The name "Gorlok" was derived from the combination of two streets that intersect in the heart of "old Webster," Gore and Lockwood Avenues. The name was chosen in June 1984 by a campus committee that considered many suggestions and voted several times before settling on the unusual nickname.

How was the "legend" born?

Once a name was chosen, a contest was run in the October 4, 1984 issue of The Journal, the Webster University student newspaper. At the time the contest was run, only the name Gorlok had been decided. The contest required the applicants to submit a sketch as well as a description of what they thought a Gorlok would look like. The winning entry included the description outlined above and a picture of a blue and yellow creature holding a hand-held pump sprayer.

Is today's Gorlok the same as the original?

Not at all. The name and the legend remain, but the face (and body) have changed considerably. The first life-size reproduction of the Gorlok was not complete until 1988, and made it's debut at the February 9, 1988 men's basketball game between Webster and St. Louis Christian College. That first Gorlok stood 6'3" and was covered in blue fur. It was designed and created by Jana Park-Rogers, a costume designer for The Repertory Theatre of St.Louis, and Teri McConnell, creator of "Fredbird," the St. Louis Cardinal mascot.

Today's Gorlok is much different. A golden fur-covered creature sporting a blue T-shirt emblazoned with a magnificent white "W," he makes his appearance at several worldwide Webster events.