School works on replacing Native American-themed nickname

HANOVER, Mass. (AP) — A Massachusetts high school that dropped its Native American-themed sports mascot this summer has reduced its list of possible replacements to six.

Hanover High’s new nickname will be selected from among Hawks, Huskies, Hornets, Anchors, Wolf Pack and United, The Patriot Ledger reported Wednesday.

The school dropped its Indians nickname in August, and was among several Massachusetts high schools that voted to change Native American-themed mascots this year amid a national reckoning over racial injustice.

The 20-member mascot committee received more than 400 entries and a total of 89 unique names, Principal Matthew Paquette said. Each committee member then ranked their top five to come up with the final six.

The committee is now asking students, alumni, faculty and community members to submit their ideas for new logo as well. Paquette said 33 logo ideas have come in so far, but he expects more.

The committee expects to have final mascots paired with logo ideas by Dec. 16. Residents will then get a chance vote on the new mascot, which will be revealed on New Year’s Day.