New Statue Stands Outside Main Entrance of Williams Stadium

Liberty University is no stranger to change, but this semester has brought a surprisingly notable one. Outside of Gate 1 of Williams Stadium, a sleek new red statue of the LU logo now stands where a statue of Liberty’s mascot, Sparky, was once mounted.

When Williams Stadium was expanded in 2018, the Liberty University Athletics Department decided they needed something at the main gate to welcome students, alumni and their families into the stadium. They decided to move Sparky from his former perch at the baseball stadium, and he quickly became a spot where students and visitors could take photos to capture their time at Liberty.

However, in spring 2021, Sparky fell after a freshman high-fived him on her routine rollerblading trip around campus. 

His disappearance was soon noticed by concerned students who raised concerns about whether he would return. However, the beloved statue was unrepairable.

After the tragic fall, Senior Associate Athletics Director for Internal Operations Mickey Guridy said he and his team had to carefully consider what to put outside the stadium in his place. 

The athletic administration wanted a structure that was both sturdy and durable and represented Liberty’s brand in a positive way. The department also wanted something that matched the other facilities, like the new basketball arena.

Thus, they chose the LU logo.

“That’s just where we landed,” Guridy explained. “We have something that’s not going to be damaged and still be a great photo-op for people who come on campus. We’re proud of the LU logo.”

The new statue is attached to the ground and more durable compared to the previous fiberglass-type Sparky statue, Guridy said. 

Some students are shocked at the replacement of the iconic structure. For junior American Sign Language Interpretation and Spanish major Jieli Kasprzak, the new statue brings mixed feelings.

“I kind of miss Sparky,” Kasprzak said. “I love the colors and how it shouts ‘LU’, but Sparky felt more homey.” 

Others felt Sparky had already run his course. They are happy with the change and think the new statue is bolder and more modern. 

“I love it! The Sparky was too small and seemed wimpy,” Strategic Communications senior Erin Moffa said.

Guridy understands both perspectives but reminds those who miss Sparky that the mascot will still be around on game day.

“Sparky’s a big part of our campus,” Guridy said. “We love Sparky and hope that he will be more visible on campus this year as we get into our events and people will have an opportunity to see him in person.”

Guridy said they will reevaluate the situation in the next year and consider the possibility of bringing him back either by Williams Stadium or somewhere else on campus. 

Fitch is a news reporter. Follow her on Twitter at @charity_elise_.