If you're an alum of NIU, I have some sad news.

It was announced on Monday, September 7th, that their former mascot passed away.

Diesel the beloved Siberian husky and NIU team mascot of 9 years passed away from cancer. Diesel was diagnosed, according to HuslteBelt , with "lymphoma in August."

"Diesel was NIU's mascot for nine years before retiring in 2013. He received the titled upon retiring of "mascot emeritus".  As quoted on NIU Huskies facebook page, for nine years, he visited every stadium in the Mid-American Conference (except UMass), four MAC Championship games, and NIU road games throughout the Midwest. Diesel was a fan favorite to the Huskie faithful and fans of opponents alike. He was one of the best mascots in the country and would regularly be seen on the sideline giving cheerleaders high fives."

Although he was fighting cancer, Diesel was able to make NIU's first home game on Saturday, September 5th to see the Huskies victory over UNLV, 38-30.

Now his younger predecessor, Mission, (Shown on the left) will continue carrying on Diesel's legend and the NIU mascot tradition.

NIU's Mascots Mission (current, left side) and Diesel (former, right side)
Brian Kersey; Getty Images
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If you'd like to leave your condolences please visit the facebook page: Diesel the Huskie

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