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FSU's Iconic Ritual Celebrates Seminole Heritage and Tradition

10/4/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Florida State University (FSU)'s pregame ritual features Chief Osceola and Renegade, a horse, performing a ceremonial spear planting.
The tradition was approved by the Seminole Tribe of Florida and began in mid-1960s.
Bill Durham conceived the ritual, later supported by Bowden.
The NCAA exempted FSU from a ban on Native American mascots due to its relationship with the Seminole Tribe.

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Story summary

Florida State University (FSU)'s pregame ritual features Chief Osceola and Renegade, a horse, performing a ceremonial spear planting.
The tradition was approved by the Seminole Tribe of Florida and began in mid-1960s.
Bill Durham conceived the ritual, later supported by Bowden.
The NCAA exempted FSU from a ban on Native American mascots due to its relationship with the Seminole Tribe.