August 31, 2008: Birth of TOM III, the University of Memphis Live Tiger Mascot

Quick Facts

• Date: August 31, 2008
• Location: Wisconsin Big Cat Rescue & Educational Center, Rock Springs, Wisconsin
• Species: Bengal tiger
• Parents: Thor and Vixie
• Connection to Memphis: Donated as a cub to serve as the University of Memphis live mascot (TOM III); introduced at a press conference Nov. 17, 2008, and officially presented at the Nov. 22, 2008 UCF game; served until his death on Sept. 18, 2020.

Main Story

On August 31, 2008, a Bengal tiger cub was born at the Wisconsin Big Cat Rescue & Educational Center in Rock Springs, Wisconsin. The cub—later known across the Bluff City as TOM III—was one of three born that day to tigers Thor and Vixie. Founders Jeff Kozlowski and Jenny Meyer offered one of the cubs to the University of Memphis following the passing of TOM II in October 2008, ensuring the Tiger tradition would continue without interruption. According to the University, TOM III arrived in Memphis on Oct. 23, 2008, was introduced publicly on Nov. 17, and formally presented at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium on Nov. 22 during the Tigers’ game against UCF.

Throughout his tenure, TOM III was cared for by the Highland Hundred’s Tiger Guard—supporters who, the University notes, funded and oversaw his housing and care rather than using public or University funds. The athletics department’s records confirm TOM III’s birthday (Aug. 31, 2008) and birthplace (Rock Springs, Wisconsin), grounding his Memphis story in verified details. His presence became part of campus traditions and game days that help define the culture of Memphis, from the Liberty Bowl to conversations that celebrate Beale Street and the broader heritage of the 901.

Legacy

TOM III’s life (2008–2020) marked the University’s concluding chapter of bringing a live tiger to football games. After his passing on Sept. 18, 2020, the University announced a partnership with the Memphis Zoo for TOM IV, shifting the live-mascot tradition to a zoo-based model rather than stadium appearances. For Memphis history and Tigers fans, TOM III remains a touchstone—an emblem of community identity and the enduring spirit of the Bluff City.

https://gotigersgo.com/news/2009/8/27/TOM_III_To_Celebrate_1st_Birthday_at_FanFest_Saturday, https://www.memphis.edu/mediaroom/releases/2020/september/tomiiimascot.php, https://gotigersgo.com/news/2020/9/18/general-tom-iii-famed-bengal-tiger-mascot-of-the-university-of-memphis-passes-away-at-age-12.aspx, https://www.wisconsinbigcats.org/39/Who-is-Wisconsin-Big-Cats, https://www.actionnews5.com/2020/09/21/uofm-memphis-zoo-partner-tom-iv-after-beloved-tigers-mascots-passing/