Like most old U.S. universities, the origins of Wake Forest's mascot are distinctive, yet somewhat debated. As early as 1895, Wake Forest College (as it was called at the time) was using its colors in athletic competition. In 1923, the Wake Forest football team defeated rival Trinity (later renamed Duke University). In the following issue of the school newspaper, the editor of the paper, Mayon Parker, first referred to the team as "Demon Deacons," in recognition of what he called their "devilish" play and fighting spirit. Wake Forest's news director, and head football coach liked the title and used it often, so the popularity of the term grew.