Can This Minnesota Otter Beat a Team of Indiana Hot Dogs?

Minnesota may be known for its 10,000 Lakes, but one of our more unique mascots is once again in a battle to become known as the best in the entire country.

Fergus Falls' Otto the Otter Advances in National Mascot Contest

High school mascots have been around for a while, both here in the North Star State and across the country. The Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) says that while many school mascots were originally animals, today's school mascots often reflect local history, wildlife, industries, or cultural identity.

Here in Rochester, our high school mascots include the Rockets of John Marshall High School, the Spartan Warriors of Mayo High School, and the Golden Eagles of Lourdes High School.

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Minnesota High School Mascots Reflect Local Pride and History

Nearby are the Bears of Byron High School, the Tigers of Stewartville High School, the Komets of Kasson-Mantoriville High School, and the Awesome Blossoms of Blooming Prairie High School, just to name a few.

Seeing as I grew up in central Wisconsin, where logging and lumber mills were once a major industry, my high school mascot was the Evergreens of D.C. Everest High School. Closer to home, the Minnesota Post compiled a list of the five most common high school mascots in Minnesota:

• Eagles – A symbol of strength and freedom, adopted by numerous schools statewide.
• Tigers – Representing power and agility, commonly chosen for their fierce image.
• Panthers – Embodying stealth and strength, a popular choice among schools.
• Cardinals – Known for their vibrant color and regional presence.
• Cougars – Symbolizing speed and tenacity, favored for their dynamic representation.

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Though not among the five most common in the state, one high school mascot is once again on its way to being one of the best in the country. That's because it just advanced to the third round of voting in Division 1 in the 2026 the64.com America's Best High School Mascot tournament. The64.com is an interactive voting platform it says was created to celebrate the ‘Best Of’ through 'fun and competitive tournaments nationwide.'

Otto the Otter Faces Indiana's Frankfort High School Hot Dogs

According to a release, 'thousands of votes (and countless school spirit showdowns) have already taken place in the mascot tournament,' which features Minnesota's own Otto the Otter from Fergus Falls High School.

The Otters, who made the tournament last year as well, already won their first two rounds and now face the Frankfort High School Hot Dogs of Indiana in Round 16. Public voting is open through Friday. The winner advances to Round Eight, which begins October 24th.

The Otto in this contest is the high school mascot, but the city of Fergus Falls, which is located in Otter Tail County, is also home to the massive statue of Otto, which has been a familiar sight since it was constructed back in 1972!