Plush Items

This lovable ten inch plush Joe Vandal doll comes with his own "Idaho Vandals" t-shirt. Perfect for any future, current or past University of Idaho students. We would tell you it makes a great gift for children, but we know you're really getting it for yourself.

The Story of Joe Vandal
Idaho's student-athletes go by a name earned nearly a century ago by a basketball team coached by Hec Edmunson, whose teams played defense with such intensity and ferocity that sports writers said they "vandalized" their opponents.

The mark made by that 1917 team went far deeper than wins and losses on the court. In 1917, Harry Lloyd "Jazz" McCarty- a writer for the Argonaut- subtly tagged the team with a new nickname in a pre-game write-up. "The opening game with Whitman will mark a new epoch in Idaho basketball history, for the present gang of 'Vandals ' have the best material that has ever carried the 'I' into action." McCarty's indirect suggestion stuck. By 1921, McCarty and Edward Maslin Hulme, dean of the College of Liberal Arts, succeeded in their push to have Vandals officially adopted as the nickname for all Idaho teams.

The University of Idaho is the only institution of higher education to use the mascot of the Vandal. The nickname exemplifies the spirit of the University in more than just athletics; as University of Idaho Vandals, we are fiercely competitive and independent thinkers and doers.

The tradition of Joe Vandal began in the late 1950s when yell leader Bill Currie made a sideline appearance as the spirited and enthusiastic "Joe the Vandal." With a homemade mask created by his mother who worked in the art department, Currie motivated the University's eager fans. Currie was invited to travel with the team and do anything he could to "draw attention to himself."

In the early 2000s, Joe faced a bit of controversy when the traditional mascot costume was replaced with an inflatable suit. The new identity of Joe never received the open welcome some had anticipated. Inflatable Joe's reign was cut short and he was ceremonially deflated to reveal the classic Joe underneath; seeing the rebirth of their beloved Joe, fans went wild.

Although Joe's looks have changed over time, his spirit is tried and true. He can be seen at athletic events and large campus events all year long. All students, not only athletes, are considered Vandals with the heritage of a fierce Germanic tribe- as described in our Go! Vandals Go! Fight song.

Let this bear cheer you on.

• 100% polyester and PVC pellets
• Length: 9 inches
• Plays University of Idaho Fight Song

Show off your Vandal Spirit with this Joe Vandal golf head cover.
Also makes for a great sock puppet, no joke!

• Length: Approximately 16 inches

Get a soft start for your future NBA star.

• 5 inch diameter

This plush football is the perfect gift for any little Vandal. Ages 3 and up.

• 100% polyester
• Length: 7 inches
• Surface Washable

Give the gift of Archie this holiday season! Soft and cuddly, and featuring IDAHO VANDALS
on a cute Santa inspired sweater.

• 100% polyester
• Length: 11 inches
• Surface washable
• Flame retardant

This cozy bear wears a winter cap with ear flaps. Winter cuddles for young Vandals!

• 100% polyester
• Centered "I" Patch
• Length: 12 inches
• Surface washable
• Flame retardant

These plush dogs come in 4 varieties to choose from:

     - Beagle with black bandana.
     - Golden Retriever with black bandana.
     - Schnauzer with black bandana.
     - Black Lab with black bandana.


You may specify which animal(s) you would like after you click "Add to Cart."

• Screen printed "I-Vandals" Logo on bandana
• 9 inches in height

Classic 10" Chelsea teddy bear wearing a two piece black and
white cheerleader outfit with a gold Idaho screen-print on the front.

• 100% polyester and PVC pellets.

Classic Chelsea teddy bear wearing a Letterman's black and gold jacket
with real snaps and embroidered "I" on the front.

• 100% polyester and PVC pellets
• Paws are leather

• 4 Inches
• Plush keychain
• Please select either cow, giraffe, hedgehog or owl.

• 4.6 Inches
• Plush keychain
• Please select either cow, elephant, monkey or pig