For more than 70 years, Zippy has been an enduring symbol of spirit, pride and enthusiasm at The University of Akron (UA). As the only female kangaroo mascot in college sports, Zippy has always stood out from the crowd. Now, she’s making history yet again — this time by signing a groundbreaking Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) deal. In doing so, Zippy has become the first female mascot to sign such a deal, setting a new precedent in college sports and paving the way for mascots to join the NIL movement.
This multi-year partnership with the County of Summit ADM Board will see Zippy playing a pivotal role in raising awareness for behavioral health initiatives. The Board provides life-changing services in prevention, treatment and recovery support, helping individuals navigate some of the toughest moments in life. Just as Zippy electrifies the crowd at UA games and events, she will now help energize Summit County by bringing attention to these critical mental health resources. With this partnership, Zippy is proving that a mascot’s impact extends far beyond the confines of a sports arena.
The NIL Era: Expanding Opportunities for Mascots
The NIL rule, introduced in 2021, revolutionized college athletics by allowing student-athletes to profit from their name, image and likeness. Until recently, this opportunity was primarily reserved for athletes, but Zippy’s groundbreaking agreement is shifting that narrative. With this deal, she joins the ranks of a select few mascots who have leveraged their brand to sign endorsement deals, make paid appearances and contribute to important causes. Zippy is leading the charge for mascots nationwide, demonstrating that
they too can play a significant role in collegiate branding and community engagement.
The Dedicated Team Behind Zippy’s Success
Zippy’s presence at events is made possible by a devoted team of 15 talented students who embody the spirit of UA’s beloved mascot. These students receive scholarships for their dedication and are compensated for every public appearance they make. From campus events to community gatherings, and even local birthday parties, the Zippy program provides students with an incredible leadership experience while bringing joy to fans of all ages. Thanks to this new NIL deal, Zippy’s appearances will only increase, creating even more opportunities for these students to shine.
Looking Ahead
As the University of Akron’s favorite marsupial continues to make history, one thing is certain — Zippy is more than just a mascot; she’s a trailblazer, an ambassador and an inspiration to students and fans alike.
Go Zips!
Visit Zippy’s page online at uakron.edu/zippy. Follow her on Instagram @uakronzippy.
Story by Cristine Boyd