Oregon Ducks Football

Hotel Special Ducks’ History

Oregon Ducks is the name of the University of Oregon’s mascot and sports teams. Located in Eugene, Oregon, the Ducks are part of the Pacific 10 (Pac-10) conference, and best known for their football team, which finished 12-1 in 2001 under head coach Mike Bellotti, who took over the program in 1995. During the 2005-2006 season, the Ducks had an outstanding 10-1 record (5th overall in the BCS ranking system)-their best finish since their Joey Harrington-led, Fiesta Bowl-winning 2001 team.

Ducks’ History. Even though the uniforms have changed (no longer bearing a fighting Donald Duck bursting through the block "O" logo), Donald remains one of the most recognizable mascots on the collegiate sports scene. In 1947, Oregon's first athletic director, Leo Harris, struck a handshake arrangement with Walt Disney: Donald's likeness could serve as a mascot, as long as it was done in good taste. The unique deal stood for 20 years, with Walt Disney Productions providing several versions of the duck for Oregon's use, until the cartoonist's death in 1966.

Autzen Stadium. Described in 2000 as a "glorified divot with seats" by Sports Illustrated magazine, Autzen Stadium was built in 1967 for just $2.5 million. The stadium just underwent its largest renovation ever. The three-phase expansion added approximately 12,000 seats, bringing the game-day capacity to nearly 54,000. The $89.7 million project also added 32 new skyboxes, a three-story luxury suite and improved concession stands.  [Top]