Today, the Delaware Blue Coats, the NBA G League affiliate of the Philadelphia 76ers, introduced the team’s new mascot, “Coaty,” at the Delaware Children’s Museum on the Wilmington Riverfront.
Coaty’s name was inspired by a multitude of suggestions from nearly 1,000 local children enrolled in Wilmington area after-school programs. All students who participated will be invited to a Blue Coats home game this season at the all-new 76ers Fieldhouse, which opens Wednesday, Jan. 23 when the team hosts the Memphis Hustle at 7:00 p.m.
COATY’S STORY
As midnight approached on a stormy night in July 1776, Delaware’s Founding Father Caesar Rodney set out on one of the most important journeys in American history. Rodney rode 80 miles on horseback to Philadelphia to cast a tie-breaking vote for American Independence in the Continental Congress.
Centuries later, the descendant of Rodney’s equestrian hero continues to serve the First State, when he isn’t busy horsing around. Coaty proudly represents the Delaware Blue Coats as the team’s mascot, community ambassador and noble steed.
This high-energy horse is dressed to compete in his authentic Blue Coats basketball uniform. Coaty’s custom kicks comfortably fit his springy hooves and his shiny blue coat and thick navy mane compliment the unique white Delaware-shaped birthmark on his nose.
Incredibly, this speedy equestrian’s athletic prowess isn’t only showcased on the ground, but also in the air. Sixers mascot Franklin taught Coaty how to dunk when he was just a colt, which gives new meaning to the term, “horse fly.”
Coaty’s mission is to use the power of basketball to help Delaware’s youth achieve success in the classroom, on the court, and in their neighborhoods. He hopes you’ll visit him at his stable in the all-new 76ers Fieldhouse in Wilmington very soon!
Source: Blue Coats