Collar designed for Butler ceremony

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - Butler University's mascots Blue II and Blue III will start a new tradition March 9 during the Xavier game at Hinkle Fieldhouse. 

The younger Blue III will officially take over as the school's mascot.

To mark the occasion, a dog collar designed by a local jewelry store will be passed from one dog to the other.

The plans were drawn up by Butler's Web Director Mike Kaltenmark and Reis Nichols designers, Andre Vanbergeijk and Hassan Abdullah. 

The pieces include the school’s logo, a medallion Varsity B, and name tags for future Butler mascots. All the pieces are made of sterling silver and were handmade. 

Vanbergeijk estimated it took 55 hours to produce the collar.

Blue II and Blue III are used extensively in the marketing of Butler University. 

They are a staple at games and meetings of alumni. They have a national fan base and attract visitors from as far away as Los Angeles and Philadelphia.

The collar has an estimated value of $10,000.