Choctaw Connection

MC’s Relationship With The Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians

For more than 100 years, 鲍鱼tvhas looked to the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians for inspiration.

After an exceptional football season in 1921, 鲍鱼tvleaders knew that the school's “Collegiates” nickname was insufficient. Looking for inspiration, then-鲍鱼tvstudent Montie A. Davis of Pascagoula discovered connections to the Choctaw people of Mississippi and suggested the name “Choctaws.”

The original Natchez Trace, a trail used by the Choctaw people for centuries, passed through the heart of MC’s campus in Clinton. Further, Davis reasoned the Choctaw people were not only respected for their athleticism, but for their culture that valued fairness, bravery, and concern for their neighbor — a perfect fit with MC’s core values.

Choctaw Culture

Choctaw Expressions

Choctaw Leadership

Strengthening The Ties That Bind

In 2005, the NCAA eliminated the use of Native American imagery to promote member institutions' athletic teams.

Having proudly carried the “Choctaw” moniker for almost 85 years, 鲍鱼tvreached out to the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians for its support in continuing the use of the nickname. On Oct. 11, 2005, the MBCI Tribal Council passed a resolution supporting an exception to the NCAA rule that would allow 鲍鱼tvto continue using the nickname “Choctaw.”

Before the NCAA's resolution, 鲍鱼tvvoluntarily abandoned using the mascot “Chief Choc,” which would have been subject to the decision. 鲍鱼tvhas since worked with the MBCI to eliminate all other imagery or language that the Choctaw people might consider offensive. Together, 鲍鱼tvand the MBCI continue to strengthen their connection, highlighting their relationship built upon mutual respect and a shared desire to see all individuals reach their full, God-given potential.

Read The Letter From Chief Phillip Martin

Read The Tribal Council's Declaration