2024 Homecoming Theme

Paydirt Pete Through the Eras: 1974-2024

Paydirt Pete, UTEP’s beloved mascot, turns 50 in 2024. At Homecoming this year, we pay tribute to Pete’s evolution through the last five decades. From his origin as a cartoon character in 1974, to the first costumed “Sweet Pete” in 1980, and subsequent eras as a hardrock miner smoking a cigar, the scraggly “Deranged Pete,” and finally the fun-loving mascot we know today, Paydirt Pete has transformed alongside the University.

Join us to celebrate Pete’s golden anniversary at Homecoming 2024.