Florida Gators debut new Albert, Alberta mascot costumes ahead of 2015 season

With the Florida Gators athletic program already in the midst of a number of overhauls – mostly to teams and venues – the program officially debuted on Friday new costumes for its long-time mascots, Albert E. Gator and Alberta Gator.

After being alerted to pictures and videos of what looked to be new mascot costumes, OnlyGators.com reached out to the athletic program and received confirmation that Albert and Alberta have indeed changed their look. But how drastic is the change?

According to the University Athletic Association’s marketing and promotions staff, the primary adjustment made to the costumes is the material: they are “much more lightweight and customized for [the] hot Florida weather.” Cosmetically, the biggest change fans will notice is the eyes of Albert and Alberta, which are opened more.

Albert and Alberta officially debuted Friday at UCA Cheer camp alongside the Gators’ cheerleaders. Alberta previously showed off her new threads during the mascot games in June, according to UF.

Albert originally debuted in 1970, followed by Alberta 14 years later in 1984.

OnlyGators.com will update this post with picture comparisons shortly.

Here’s the new Albert, in motion: