Ole Miss announces adoption of Landshark as new school mascot

Move over Rebel the Bear, it's the Landshark's time to shine.

Ole Miss Chancellor Dr. Jeff Vitter announced Friday in a letter sent to university stakeholders that the school will retire its existing mascot Rebel, the Black Bear and adopt a new Landshark mascot prior to the 2018 season, according to David Magee of Magnolia State Live.

"I want to state unequivocally that we are - and always will be - the Ole Miss Rebels. And I am asking all Rebels to unite around our new Landshark mascot," Dr. Vitter said in the letter, confirming that the school will stick with its long-standing nickname.

Vitter added that the athletics department will be in charge of designing, developing, and launching the mascot under the direction of athletic director Ross Bjork.