If 2022 hasn’t been strange enough already, Rugby Southland and the Southland Stags are pleased to announce after almost two decades, Steve-O Stag will be replaced by a real-life Stag for the 2022 NPC Season.

The decision has been made with health and safety and the current covid-19 risks at the forefront.

“The days of an unventilated mascot suits are past, given the risks of covid 19 and other variants that can be passed on in the suit”, said Marketing Coordinator Jack King.

The new mascot, a 200kg red Stag from Piano Flat in Northern Southland, will be found in a custom built 'Roaring Pen' on the terraces to keep the animal and fans safe.

“He's a big boy! We’ll still keep the name Steve-O for him and we’re just working out how we get a jersey over the antlers in a safe manor”.

“He’s pretty timid and good for the weeds around the ground when we're not at the park”.

Community visits such as schools for morning tea shouts, and bull rush games are something Rugby Southland are still working around. 

A decision around the nature of all visits will be made at 12pm today, April 1^st 2022.

Article added: Thursday 31 March 2022