UST Growling Tigers - Mascot and Colors

Mascot and Colors

The men's varsity team of the University of Santo Tomas used to be called the "Glowing Goldies". The change to "Growling Tigers" came after the embarrassment suffered by the UST crowd who were present during the opening ceremonies of Season 54 (1991–92). Part of the program was the parade of school mascots. Host University of the Philippines which was the producer of the program was at a loss on how to represent the Glowing Goldies concretely. Since UST is a Dominican institute, the host decided to represent the school with an old Dominican friar with band-aids all over its body and limbs. This personification drew a lot of laughter from the crowd. Due to this embarrassment, a search for a new mascot was held. Athletic Director Felicitas Francisco suggested the tiger as the new mascot due to its gold and white colors.

When it was UST's turn to be host in Season 55 (1992–93), the new growling tiger mascot debuted in the opening ceremonies. Since then, Mrs. Francisco always donned her tiger-striped coat when she attends UST playoff games. The High School boy's team then called the "Golden Nuggets" likewise changed its name to "Tiger Cubs".

It should be noted that Manila Central University used the tiger mascot (with purple and gold colors) in the UAAP when it joined in 1952. It withdrew from the UAAP and is currently inactive in intercollegiate athletics.

The gold and white colors of the flag of the Vatican City were adopted by University of Santo Tomas as its school colors because of its Pontifical status.