06/17/2026
Happy National Mascot Day to the Mighty Blue Devils!
Today we celebrate a symbol that has represented generations of pride, tradition, and excellence in Tift County Schools.
While the exact origin of the Blue Devil mascot remains part of local history and legend, research suggests it may trace back to the 1920s. One theory connects the name to the famous French military unit known as the Chasseurs Alpins, who earned the nickname "Les Diables Bleus" or "Blue Devils" during World War I. Local American Legion members and community leaders may have helped bring this influence to Tifton following the war.
Another theory points to former Tifton High School principal and football coach B.G. Childs, a Duke University alumnus, who may have advocated for the Blue Devil mascot in the years following his tenure. Historical records place the adoption of the mascot sometime between 1924 and 1926.
By 1938, references to the "Mighty Blue Devils" were prominently featured throughout the Talisman yearbook, showing the mascot had already become an important part of the school's identity.
A fun piece of Tift County history: our girls' athletic teams were known as the Angels until 1979, when they became the Lady Devils.
Whether on the field, in the classroom, on the stage, or throughout our community, the Blue Devil represents the spirit of determination, pride, and excellence that continues to define Tift County Schools.
Happy National Mascot Day, Blue Devils!
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