At Hamline, we don’t wait for things to happen—we make them happen. We take bold action, lead with purpose, and inspire those around us. Our mascot, The Piper, embodies this spirit of courage, determination, and leadership. Historically, pipers marched at the forefront of battle, armed with nothing but a brave heart and a song, fearlessly leading the way. Just like them, Hamline Pipers are driven by passion and perseverance, always setting the pace.
Before The Piper, Hamline’s athletic teams were simply known by our school colors, Red and Gray. However, as our athletics gained recognition in the early 1920s—especially with the completion of New Norton Field in 1922—the call for a mascot grew. Turning to the St. Paul Pioneer Press-Dispatch for suggestions, names like Red Sox, Red Legs, and Cardinals were considered. But one name stood out—The Pipers, inspired by Robert Browning’s poem The Pied Piper of Hamelin.
Since then, The Piper has proudly represented Hamline, bringing luck to our teams, energy to our students, and spirit to our campus. Fearless, determined, and always ready to take the lead—that’s the Piper way.