Nessex is now the name for the NECC mascot
Our new and improved mascot was proudly named “Nessex” thanks to submissions from students, staff and alumni for the “Name The Knight” contest. After collecting all submissions from September 4-23, three final names were chosen by a panel of judges to be voted on.
“We had 120 votes for the final name. ‘Sir Essexius the Book Slayer’ had the least with only 18 votes, ‘Sir Learns-A-Lot’ had 48 votes, and ‘Nessex’ narrowly squeaked out a victory with 54 votes” says Nathan Gilbert, director of online communications.
The winning name was announced on Homecoming night, Oct. 13.
All three contestant finalists were prized with NECC swag bags. The judges had to shuffle through 131 initial submissions. Some were educational based, others derived from references from Monty Python and other medieval eras.
Ariel Chicklis, coordinator of orientation and student involvement, says the name “Nessex” will be used for this academic year.
Northern Essex sports teams have always been “The Knights” with the previous mascot sporting a large, head and viking fur. Looking a little outdated, the Student Government Association really pushed for a new mascot to represent NECC.
Raising money and advocating to the school, SGA was able to bring to life a brand new knight. “The ‘Name The Knight’ contest was a great way to increase student involvement at the school. We try to raise school spirit wherever possible” says Lindsey Cohan, secretary of SGA. The new Knight is more classic looking, with a knights helmet and striking gold and blue school colors. SGA said they designed the mascot to be gender neutral, as any student could wear it.
As NECC grows and becomes more substantial in the lives of its students and staff, it was only fitting to put a notable face to the school.
It’s been a long time coming considering our school has been very active in sports and athletics. NECC offers men’s baseball, basketball, cross country, and track and field, as well as women’s softball, volleyball, cross country, and track and field.
