A Tribute To TOM III

When a family loses a member due to death, there is a wide range of emotions.

For some, there is grieving, maybe some emptiness over the loss. That's what Tiger Nation was feeling the afternoon of Sept. 18 when news spread that TOM III, the beloved Bengal Tiger mascot for University of Memphis Athletics since 2008, died at his compound that morning after being ill that week. TOM III passed less than three weeks after his 12^thbirthday.

"We are deeply saddened by the passing of TOM III," said UofM President M. David Rudd. "He was a majestic animal who brought so much joy to all of Tiger Nation. The TOMs have truly been wonderful ambassadors for the University of Memphis."

Memphis Athletics Director Laird Veatch added, "We are heartbroken with the passing of TOM III. I will never forget his presence at home games and all of the smiling faces he brought to so many people. It is a sad day for all Memphis Tigers."

As the news continued to spread over the following days, thoughts, prayers and sympathy messages came pouring in from across the nation. Condolences came from fellow schools, including the Texas and LSU athletics departments.

Those emotions of sadness Tiger Nation experienced on Sept. 18 and the following days turn to fond memories of TOM III as his life is celebrated prior to today's kickoff. And there's a lot to rejoice about TOM III's reign as the UofM's majestic mascot.

TOM III was introduced at a Nov. 17, 2008, press conference, and the Highland Hundred Tiger Guard officially presented him to the University during a Nov. 22 football game against UCF.

TOM III presided over the one of the most glorious periods in University and athletics history, including the magical ride of the 2019 football campaign. TOM III was present at the UofM's splendid day-long celebration of Tigers football last November when ESPN GameDay was in town and then the thrilling 54-48 victory over SMU before a sold-out Liberty Bowl and a national television audience. His last appearance at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium came Dec. 7, 2019, when No. 16 Memphis pulled out a 29-24 come-from-behind win over No. 21 Cincinnati to claim the American Athletic Conference crown and earn the program's first New Year's Six bowl invitation to the Cotton Bowl.

Overall, TOM III witnessed 73 victories and also was a part of three straight American Athletic Conference West Division crowns and the 2014 AAC title. TOM III also saw the Tigers make a school-record six consecutive bowl games and seven overall, including last year's Cotton Bowl Classic. TOM III's last victory was this year's opener, a 37-24 win over Arkansas State at the Liberty Bowl.

However, more than the wins. More than the division and conference titles. More than the postseason bowl trips. It's was TOM III's mere presence at home games that gave Tiger Nation an extra shot of pride to both the young and young-at-heart.

When the young saw TOM III, their saucer-sized eyes and opened mouths revealed their awe and amazement of the grand animal. And even though the longtime fans had seen TOM III at many home games, their reverence for what he meant to the program spoke volumes without saying any words.

Scott Forman, TOM III's caretaker as a member of the Tiger Guard, put it best in a Sept. 19 tweet: "Those of you who know me well know that TOM was my whole world, my only child, the passion of my life. Losing him is devastating, but the outpouring of emotion from those who loved TOM has been humbling to see. It was an honor and a great privilege to dedicate my life to TOM III. A part of me left with him."

The other part remains forever in the hearts of Tiger Nation – once a Memphis Tiger, always a Memphis Tiger.

University of Memphis Athletics

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