Est. 1908The
Buffalo
A Symbol of Strength, Resilience & UnityFor over a century, the Buffalo has stood as the proud and enduring symbol of Tempe High School. More than a mascot — it is an identity, a standard, and a promise passed from one generation of Buffaloes to the next.
Three Words.
One Identity.
The American Buffalo is one of nature's most powerful animals — built to withstand, built to push forward. Every Buffalo at Tempe High carries that same charge: to be stronger than the opposition, stronger than doubt, stronger than adversity.
The Buffalo doesn't retreat from storms — it faces them head-on. This is the spirit that carried the program through back-to-back winless seasons, three coaching changes, and back to championship relevance. Resilience isn't about avoiding failure. It's about what happens next.
A herd is stronger than any single animal. The Buffalo mascot represents the bond between players, coaches, alumni, families, and the Tempe community — a connection forged through shared sweat, sacrifice, and Friday night under the lights.
Origins of the
Buffalo Mascot
Founded in 1908, Tempe High School needed a mascot that would capture the spirit of a new institution — one that was determined to build something lasting in the Arizona desert. The committee sought an animal that embodied the values they wanted to instill in every student who walked through the doors.
The Buffalo was the clear choice. Known for its raw power, unwavering endurance, and capacity to thrive in harsh conditions, the Buffalo was the perfect representation of the Tempe spirit. It didn't just survive — it thrived.
"The Buffalo doesn't retreat from storms. It faces them."
Over time, the mascot became inseparable from the school's identity — appearing on pennants, pins, jerseys, and eventually the modern branding worn by today's Buffaloes. From 1908 to the present, the Buffalo has never changed its meaning: strength through adversity, pride through perseverance.
The Buffalo
Van
During the 1980s, a beloved and uniquely Tempe tradition emerged at home football games — a miniature van adorned with the Buffalo mascot would circle the track during games, rallying the crowd and amplifying the energy in the stadium.
It wasn't just a fun game-day prop. It became a symbol of the program's spirit — proof that the Buffaloes community knew how to show up with creativity, passion, and genuine love for the game.
This tradition was one of many that strengthened the bond between students, athletes, and fans across generations. It lives in the memory of every alumnus who watched from the stands during those years — a reminder that the Buffalo spirit extends far beyond the scoreboard.
A miniature van painted with the Buffalo mascot in full glory circled the field during home games — one lap per quarter, horn blazing, crowd on its feet. It became the unofficial heartbeat of game night at Tempe High during the decade.
The Buffalo
in Athletics
Tempe High's athletic teams — proudly known as the Buffaloes — have carried the mascot's legacy onto the field for over a century. Every championship, rivalry game, and unforgettable victory has been played under the Buffalo banner. The mascot has been present through it all — a silent reminder of what this program stands for and what it demands of every player who wears the uniform.
1956 · 1989 · 1996 — three titles across seven decades of Buffalo football.
From the 1924 inaugural season to the present — a century of Buffaloes competing.
The McClintock rivalry, the City Trophy, and dozens of defining matchups since 1966.
The 1996 championship season — perfect from kickoff to overtime game-winner.
More than a mascot.
An identity.
For students, past and present, the Buffalo represents more than school pride — it is a symbol of perseverance, excellence, and the unbreakable spirit of Tempe High School. As the school continues to grow, one thing remains constant: the Buffalo will always be a part of Tempe High's story, inspiring future generations to carry on its tradition of strength and resilience.
A Century of Milestones
Tempe High School opens its doors in 1908. The Buffalo is selected as the school mascot — a symbol of strength, endurance, and the pioneering spirit of the Arizona community.
Origin YearThe district officially authorizes football. The Buffaloes play their inaugural season under Coach Lewis S. Neeb, finishing 3-4. The mascot now has a team to represent.
Under Coach John Zucco, the Buffaloes complete a perfect 10-0 season. Phoenix sportswriters declare them Class B state champions. The Buffalo earns its first title.
State ChampionsThe opening of McClintock High School creates Tempe's fiercest rivalry. Games draw tens of thousands of fans and cement the Buffalo's identity as a community icon.
A miniature van painted with the Buffalo mascot circles the track during home games — rallying crowds, honoring the mascot, and creating memories that alumni still talk about decades later.
13-1-1. A championship game tie with Agua Fria in front of 11,000 fans at ASU's Sun Devil Stadium. The Buffaloes share the 4A title — and the mascot soars again.
Co-State ChampionsA flawless 14-0 season. Todd Mortensen hits Justin Taplin in overtime for a 20-17 win over Glendale Ironwood. Coach Tim McBurney delivers Tempe's most perfect season. The Buffalo stands tallest.
State Champions · 14-0After back-to-back winless seasons, the Buffalo spirit is reclaimed. Coach Sean Freeman instills accountability, culture, and belief — and a new generation of Buffaloes begins writing the next chapter.
The Next ChapterMore from the Buffaloes
Tempe football thrives on rivalries, championships, and community pride.
Get in Touch
- (480) 967-1661
- sean.freeman@tempehighfootball.com
- 1730 S Mill Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281
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