FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Aztec Warrior to Debut at Tonight's Men's Basketball Game
New SDSU Mascot to be Introduced During Pre-game Ceremonies

SAN DIEGO, Monday, February 23, 2004 -- The Aztec Warrior, San Diego State University's new mascot, will make his first public appearance at tonight's SDSU men's basketball game against Colorado State at Cox Arena.

The Aztec Warrior, being portrayed by Carlos Gutierrez, will be introduced before the 7:05 tip-off, and he will lead cheers throughout the game from courtside and in the stands. He will be available for media interviews during halftime.

"This marks the beginning of an exciting new tradition for the entire SDSU community," said SDSU President Stephen L. Weber. "It also marks the conclusion of a long, thoughtful, democratic process that has produced a historically accurate and appropriate mascot that enjoys strong support by students, alumni and athletic boosters."

SDSU alumni, faculty and students overwhelmingly approved the Aztec Warrior mascot concept in separate referendums held in December. Nearly 10,000 students voted, setting a new SDSU record for a student referendum and endorsing the proposed mascot by more than a 3:1 ratio. More than 4,700 Alumni Association and Aztec Athletic Foundation members voted in their referendum, with more than 88 percent of voters backing the mascot.

A rendering of the Aztec Warrior mascot concept is available at www.sdsu.edu/mascot.

San Diego State University is the oldest and largest institution of higher education in the San Diego region. Founded in 1897, SDSU offers bachelor's degrees in 79 areas, master's degrees in 67 and doctorates in 14. SDSU's more than 33,000 students participate in academic curricula distinguished by direct contact with faculty and an increasing international emphasis that prepares them for a global future. For more information log on to www.sdsu.edu.

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Media Note: The Aztec Warrior will be available in the Cox Arena interview room at halftime, as will Jim Herrick, executive director of the SDSU Alumni Association. Contact Kevin Klintworth with Aztec Athletics for press credential information at 619-594-5547.