The Drexel Dragon is the mascot for Drexel University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Dedicated in 2002, the statue, aka “Mario the Magnificent” is 14 feet long, 6 feet wide, 10 feet high, weighs 4,100 pounds and rests on a 17-ton granite base.
The popular bronze landmark is the work of renowned Philadelphia sculptor Eric Berg. His studios are at 38th and Baring streets.
The Drexel Dragon was dubbed “Mario the Magnificent” in 1997 in recognition of 1945 Alum, Mario V. Mascioli. One of the biggest fans of Drexel Men’s Basketball, Mascioli had not missed a single Dragon’s game in more than 20 years. Macioli passed away January 15, 2005.
At different points, Drexel’s sports teams were also known as the “Engineers,” the “Blue and Gold,” and the Drexelites” before finally settling with the “Dragons.”
The first published reference to the Drexel Dragons appears in a 1928 Drexel Triangle article on the football team. By January of 1929, the Triangle was applying the term “Dragons” to the basketball team as well.
Drexel University was founded in 1891 by Anthony J. Drexel, a noted financier and philanthropist.
Drexel Dragon
C/o Drexel University
33rd and Market Streets
Philadelphia, PA 19104
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