ROC the Panther
For over a century, the Pitt Panther, affectionately known as “ROC,” has been the heart and soul of the University of Pittsburgh at athletic events, cheering on every team from football to basketball to volleyball. Wherever the Panthers play, there’s always a chance you'll spot ROC, a figure so beloved that he’s become a staple of school spirit and tradition. ROC’s energy and enthusiasm earned him the prestigious title of “All-American” and the 2010 “Most Collegiate Mascot” at NCA’s Collegiate Mascot Camp—a title that recognizes the mascot with the most heart and passion for their school. Through the years, ROC has become one of the most recognizable and adored mascots in the country.
The story of Pitt’s panther mascot goes back to 1909, when a group of students and alumni gathered to choose a symbol for the university. George M. P. Baird, who put forth the idea, explained that the panther (Felis Concolor) was chosen for several reasons:
- It was once a powerful creature native to the Pittsburgh area, embodying strength and resilience
- It held a long-standing, noble place in heraldry
- Its name, with its alliterative charm, just felt right
- The panther’s golden hue matched Pitt's colors—old gold and blue—making it the perfect symbol to represent the university
- And, perhaps most importantly, no other university had claimed it as their own
Thus, the panther was born as Pitt’s official mascot, and its fierce spirit would live on for generations.
The name “ROC” honors a true Pitt football legend, Steve Petro, who was known for his toughness and unshakable durability, earning him the nickname “The Rock.” Petro’s time with the Panthers from 1936 to 1938 saw him shine on the field, particularly in Pitt’s thrilling 21-0 upset over Washington in the 1937 Rose Bowl.
After his playing days, Petro went on to play professional football with the Brooklyn Dodgers before enlisting in the U.S. Army during World War II. His love for Pitt never waned, and he returned to the university to serve as an assistant coach and later as Assistant to the Athletic Director, shaping the future of Pitt athletics for decades.
To this day, Petro’s legacy lives on through scholarships in his name, ensuring that his spirit of strength and perseverance continues to inspire future generations of Panthers.
And so, ROC stands today—a symbol of Pitt pride, a tribute to the legacy of those who paved the way, and a constant reminder of the power of school spirit and tradition.