The student-run news site of Lawrence Free State High School

Free Press Online
The student-run news site of Lawrence Free State High School

Free Press Online
The student-run news site of Lawrence Free State High School

Free Press Online
At Haskell Stadium, Kindra Bartz visits with Jodi Kesinger in 1997. Kesinger appeared at all home varsity football games. Photo by Cheryl Hawley from the Free State Journalism Archives.

FEATURE: The First Freddy

Baila Love, Online Editor-in-Chief • March 30, 2026

When Free State first opened to students in 1997, the Firebird mascot had no name until the first person wore the suit. Although the Firebird is often portrayed as male, the name “Freddy” came from...

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