Eddie the Eagle: Holy Name of Mary Catholic Elementary School's Mascot
Inspired by the quote in Isaiah 40:31 that “The strength of those who wait with hope in the Lord will be renewed and they will soar on wings like eagles,” Eddie the Eagle has been adopted as the mascot of Holy Name of Mary Catholic Elementary School. Our motto at Holy Name of Mary is: Together we celebrate faith, family and learning and as such, our community aspires to let each others’ talents soar like an ascending eagle. In fact, it is our endeavour to let the love, mercy, forgiveness, and wisdom of Christ flow through all we do here. Eddie is emblematic of all these traits and is, thus, an ideal example for us.
Eddie hatched from his egg near Hamilton on March 22, 2013, resulting in a momentous occasion as no eagles had been spotted in this area for over 50 years. Eddie’s birth is a true testament to the restoration work undertaken at RBG and Hamilton Harbour. When he was old enough, Eddie travelled the city searching for a place to call his home. He, finally, built his nest on the Holy Name of Mary Catholic Elementary school grounds in 2015 and became part of our family. Eddie’s choice to nest at our school was certainly a perfect match. At Holy Name of Mary, we have very high expectations for academic and behaviour. Since Eddie has an immense wingspan, he is able to fly to great distances and reach enormous heights. We are, thus, encouraged to fly to heights of perfection through reflection prayer in order to strengthen our relationship with God.
In addition, Eddie, like most eagles, is able to stare into the light of the sun without being blinded. Once again, Eddie prompts us to strive to look at the glory of God in the same way. Eddie sports a body of blue feathers that represent the Virgin Mary after whom
our school is named and Mary’s service to others. His other prominent colour is gold. Gold symbolizes our students, the most precious asset of our school, and the light of knowledge. Finally, we know that Eddie was destined as our mascot as his name Eddie means happy guardian and Holy Name of Mary Catholic Elementary School is certainly a place where everyone feels safe and content.
The next time you are at a school event, and you hear the cry: “Go Eagles, ca caw, ca caw!” Know that it is Eddie the protector, role model and cheerleader of Holy Name of Mary Catholic Elementary School.