Niles will introduce its new mascot for the first time prior to today’s home football game between the undefeated Vikings and Benton Harbor.

Viktor the Viking will be escorted from the high school to the football field at 7 p.m. where students, staff and fans will see him for the very first time.

“We are really excited about this, so we hope that as many people from the community as possible will be there,” said Ballard teacher Claire Ziesmer, who worked with fellow teacher Alyse Hoyt over the past year and a half to get the new mascot. “We want to bring the schools and the community together and have a rebirth of school spirit in Niles.”

Viktor will be used as a positive force at academic and athletic events in the Niles Community Schools district and at community functions.

Entry to the game is $5. Senior citizens (age 60 and up) can get a free pass at the high school athletic office. A Vikings 10-punch pass good for all events and tournaments is $35. Other season pass options are available.