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From the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex | Orlando, Florida The spotlight was firmly on collegiate mascots this January as the 2026 UCA College Cheerleading Nationals returned to ESPN’s Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando. While cheer and dance programs delivered elite performances all weekend long, mascot competition once again proved why these performers are among the most dynamic and versatile athletes in college spirit. From legendary veterans to rising stars, the 2026 mascot divisions showcased creativity, athleticism, character commitment, and crowd-driven storytelling on one of the biggest stages in college athletics. Below are the complete and official finals results for both mascot divisions, along with highlights from an unforgettable championship weekend. Division IA Mascot — 2026 Final ResultsThe Division IA Mascot category featured some of the most recognizable mascots in all of college sports. Performances were judged on character consistency, originality, audience engagement, timing, and overall execution. 🥇 National ChampionOhio State University — Brutus Buckeye Brutus Buckeye delivered a polished, confident, and crowd-energizing routine to claim the 2026 Division IA Mascot National Championship. The performance blended classic Brutus humor with sharp execution and strong floor awareness, earning top marks from judges and a huge response from the audience. 🥈 Runner-UpUniversity of Minnesota — Goldy Gopher Goldy Gopher impressed with expressive character work and clean transitions, earning a strong second-place finish in one of the deepest IA mascot fields in recent years. 🥉 Third PlaceUniversity of Tennessee — Smokey Smokey brought high energy and clear crowd connection, rounding out the podium with a well-received routine that kept the audience engaged from start to finish. 📊 Division IA Mascot — Full Finals PlacementsOhio State University — Brutus Buckeye University of Minnesota — Goldy Gopher University of Tennessee — Smokey University of Cincinnati — Cincy Bearcat Auburn University — Aubie the Tiger University of Wisconsin — Bucky Badger University of Alabama — Big Al Penn State University — Nittany Lion University of Oklahoma — Boomer University of Texas — Hook ’Em Open Mascot Division — 2026 Final ResultsThe Open Mascot Division showcased a diverse mix of programs and styles, where creativity and personality often steal the spotlight. This division continues to grow each year, bringing fresh ideas and standout performances to the UCA stage. 🥇 National ChampionGrand Canyon University — Thunder Thunder soared to the top of the Open division with a confident, crowd-focused routine that balanced humor, movement, and character storytelling. The performance earned Grand Canyon University the 2026 Open Mascot National Championship, marking a standout moment for the program. 🥈 Runner-UpStony Brook University — Wolfie Seawolf Wolfie Seawolf delivered a fast-paced, entertaining routine packed with personality and strong audience interaction, securing second place. 🥉 Third PlaceVillanova University — Will D. Cat Will D. Cat rounded out the podium with expressive character work and a polished performance that resonated well with judges and fans alike. 📊 Open Mascot — Full Finals PlacementsGrand Canyon University — Thunder Stony Brook University — Wolfie Seawolf Villanova University — Will D. Cat Austin Peay State University — The Governor University of North Alabama — Leo Lion 🏁 Final ThoughtsThe 2026 UCA Mascot Nationals delivered memorable performances, legendary moments, and a powerful reminder of how much mascots contribute to college spirit culture. From Brutus Buckeye’s championship return to Thunder’s Open division victory, this year’s results highlighted the very best in mascot performance. For fans, performers, and spirit programs alike, one thing is clear: Mascots don’t just support the show — they ARE the show.

Illinois State University’s beloved mascot, Reggie Redbird, has taken flight into a new era. After more than four decades of rallying Redbird pride on campus and beyond, Reggie has received a full-bodied refresh—while keeping all the spirit and warmth that fans know and cherish. The Revamp: Tradition Meets Innovation Unveiled today, August 9, 2025, during a press release from Illinois State Athletics, the updated design for Reggie Redbird blends a strong, athletic silhouette with bold, expressive features that pay homage to the iconic Redbird head logo introduced in 1996. Athletics Director Dr. Jeri Beggs emphasized that the refreshed costume gives Reggie more freedom of movement—literally debuting “a new pair of shoes”—and greater involvement in game-day activities, all while preserving the mascot’s playful charm. Graphic Design Manager Mike Mahle highlighted the thoughtful design process, noting that the team crafted multiple head mock-ups to ensure Reggie felt both friendly for younger fans and visually aligned with ISU branding. A Rich Legacy in Feather and Fabric Reggie’s journey spans back to the 1950s, though the mascot officially received the name “Reggie Redbird” in 1981, following a contest by the Junior Redbird Club, named in honor of baseball legend Reggie Jackson. Over the years, the mascot has evolved from shaggy, feather-laden suits to more streamlined versions, with the current Redbird head logo debuting in 1996. What This Means for the Fans Reggie has long been more than costume—he’s a beloved icon on the Quad, in stadiums, schools, and community events. The redesign is a thoughtful nod to that legacy refreshing his look while ensuring he remains agile, engaging, and lovable for the fans he inspires. The new Reggie Redbird will make his official debut at Hancock Stadium on September 6, 2025—a date that promises to be a red-letter day for Redbird Nation. And Per the University Reggie Redbird’s makeover is a masterclass in blending tradition with modernity. He starts a new chapter with enhanced mobility, refreshed visuals, and all the energizing spirit fans know well. Reggie is ready to soar—and so is Redbird pride. Article Credit: Some information obtained from the Offical press release from Illinois State University. Make sure below to Follow Reggie Redbird X Account to follow his journey too.

A Vision That Changed the GameBack in 2011, Jeromé Bartlett looked at America’s sidelines and saw untapped potential. He knew mascots could be more than halftime distractions—they could be culture-shaping superstars who ignite entire arenas. So he founded Higher Impact Entertainment and rolled out an idea that would redefine the craft: Mascot Training Camp. Fourteen years later, that spark has exploded into the world’s largest, most respected mascot development event. From Performer to “Mascot Guru”Jeromé isn’t just a coach; he’s lived the roar. Fans once knew him as T-Bone of the AHL’s San Antonio Rampage and the beloved Coyote of the NBA’s San Antonio Spurs. Guided by legends such as: Tim Derk – the original Spurs Coyote Dave Raymond – the original Phillie Phanatic Robert Boudwin – the original Rockets’ Clutch the Bear Jeromé learned from the best and then paid it forward—launching public camps in 2012 and earning the on-air nickname “Mascot Guru” from actor-host Kal Penn on National Geographic’s The Big Picture. Camp 2025: Bigger, Louder, BetterOn June 21, 2025, the Live Oak Conference Center in Texas pulsed with foam heads, oversized paws, and 33 mascots looking to level up. In one action-packed day, campers mastered: Character animation & body language Crowd-interaction hacks that spark instant cheers Stunt & safety essentials Skit writing, rehearsal, and branding tips The grand finale—Mascot Skit Competition—saw Willy the Wolf (Davenport HS) claim both the top skit and the coveted Mascot Training Camp Championship Belt. Additional honors for Outstanding Energy, Animation, and Attitude reminded everyone that heart and hustle are just as important as high kicks. Learning from LegendsWhere else can a rookie middle-schooler swap tips with performers from: Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Circus Harlem Globetrotters Dallas Stars, Texas Rangers, Atlanta Braves Cleveland Browns, Houston Astros, Detroit Pistons Houston Texans, Houston Rockets, Dallas Cowboys This all-star faculty pours decades of on-field wisdom into every breakout session, making Mascot Training Camp the undisputed gold standard. Why Mascot Training Camp Works Affordability World-class coaching priced for schools & solo performers Comprehensive Curriculum From walk-around antics to social-media branding Community Inclusion Parents, coaches, and sponsors join the learning journey Expert Leadership Helmed by a mentor who’s lived—and reinvented—the mascot life More Than a Camp—A MovementHigher Impact Entertainment keeps expanding the playbook with year-round workshops and new digital resources. Each season’s camp keeps getting bigger than the last, proving one thing: the mascot revolution is only just beginning. Ready to Suit Up?Whether you’re a parent reviving a school character or a pro mascot chasing championship-belt bragging rights, Mascot Training Camp is your launchpad. Looking to Secure your spot next year? Visit them at MascotTrainingCamp.com Follow the hype on Instagram & Facebook: @HigherImpactEnt and @MascotTraining Photos of the Fun from Mascot Training Camp 2025 There's OVER 300 Photos of the Awesomeness Click Here to see more.

Banana Ball Entertainment has just turned up the heat on it's next Team Mascot Induction. The league known for its wild, fan-first energy has added a new flame to its fire – introducing Bo the Beaver, the official mascot of the league’s blazing team, The Firefighters. With a grin as wide as his fire helmet and energy as unstoppable as a four-alarm blaze, Bo the Beaver is already lighting up crowds and igniting the stands with pure mascot madness. Bo isn't your average mascot. Dressed head to toe in firehouse-inspired gear—complete with suspenders, flame-retardant pants, and a bold red firefighter helmet—Bo brings the heat both on and off the field. His vibrant orange fur and confident pose embody everything the Firefighters stand for: strength, excitement, and a whole lot of fun. Whether he’s firing up the crowd, leading victory dances, or mock-extinguishing the competition, Bo brings explosive entertainment every inning. From the moment Bo stepped onto the field, he had the crowd roaring. With his Firefighters teammates behind him, he sprinted forward and launched into a stunning front flip—drawing gasps and cheers from the stadium. His teammates quickly surrounded him, cheering and clapping, before crowning him with his official firefighter helmet, sealing his place as a true Firefighter. The moment was electric—part initiation, part celebration—and instantly became the talk of Banana Ball fans online. With that flip and fiery entrance, Bo didn’t just debut—he ignited the show and is a welcome addition to the team. Also, if you're wondering… Why a Beaver?Beavers are nature’s engineers: resilient, resourceful, and always ready to build. Just like the Firefighters, Bo works hard, plays harder, and isn’t afraid to make a splash—or stir up a little chaos when needed. For more information about the Firefighters and the rest of the Banana Ball family, visit thefirefighters.com. And attached below is Bo The Beaver official X Account that you can now follow and get updates on his Team journey with them.

It's official! Stanley C Panther, the beloved mascot of the Florida Panthers, has led his team to victory for the second consecutive year, earning back-to-back Stanley Cup Championships. This extraordinary feat has made Stanley not just a mascot, but a living legend in the world of hockey. But Stanley’s success isn't achieved alone. He has a trusted sidekick, his rat friend, Viktor E. Ratt, who has been by his side throughout the journey. Together, they’ve become an inseparable duo, bringing even more excitement to the Panthers' victories. Stanley's passion for the game and his unwavering commitment to his team have been essential in the Panthers’ championship wins, while Viktor E. Ratt adds a unique charm and energy to the mix. The 2025 championship series was one for the history books. The Panthers' road to victory was tough, but with Stanley rallying the fans and Viktor E. Ratt keeping the energy high, their combined effort inspired the team to push through every challenge. Whether it was celebrating every win with the crowd or motivating players in the locker room, Stanley and Viktor E. Ratt have proven they’re more than just mascots—they’re a pivotal part of the Panthers' championship dynasty. As we celebrate this remarkable achievement, let’s not forget the pivotal role Stanley C Panther and his rat friend, Viktor E. Ratt, have played in making this success possible. Here’s to many more years of mascot magic and Stanley C Panther bringing home trophies to the Sunshine State! Check out below Stanley C Panther and Victor E Ratt celebrate the Teams Victory below from Instagram. BACK%20TO%20BACK%20STANLEY%20CUP%20CHAMPIONS.mp4 You can see more Content from Stanley C Panther on his Instagram that's his only active official Social Media Page.

In a whirlwind of fur, feathers, and face paint, five beloved mascots have danced and cheered their way into immortality. On National Mascot Day (June 17, 2025), the Mascot Hall of Fame unveiled its Class of 2025 inductees – fondly referred to here as the Nominees – live on Good Morning America. Fans across the nation tuned in for the highly anticipated reveal, celebrating the larger-than-life characters who have “thrilled crowds, rallied fans, and represented their teams with spirit and heart”. This energetic induction ceremony was not just a nod to sports sidekicks, but a full-blown celebration of community icons who bring joy wherever they go. Who Are the Noimaees? Meet the Class of 2025The Mascot Hall of Fame’s Class of 2025 comprises five fan-favorite mascots from across sports. These characters – some veterans of decades, others record-setters in their leagues – earned their place through unwavering dedication and charm. Here’s a look at the inductees, their origins, and their roles: Blitz (Seattle Seahawks, NFL): A blue anthropomorphic hawk who took flight as Seattle’s mascot in 1998. Blitz has been a staple of Seahawks football for 25+ years, hyping up the “12s” (Seahawks fans) at every home game. Known for high-flying stunts, Blitz even earned the title of NFL Mascot of the Year in 2022 and is celebrated for his extensive community outreach (hundreds of charity and school events each year). From stadium skydives to sideline antics, Blitz’s aerial entrances and tireless energy embody the Seahawks’. Fredbird (St. Louis Cardinals, MLB): A bright red cardinal who first hatched in 1979, Fredbird has been the lovable face of Cardinals baseball for over 44 years. He’s entertained at more than 3,600 games and rallied St. Louis through three World Series championships (1982, 2006, 2011). Beyond the ballpark, Fredbird co-hosts a kids’ TV show (Cardinals Kids) – spreading baseball joy to young fans – and was already enshrined in the St. Louis Sports Hall of Fame in 2018. With his signature cheerleader-style kicks and endless pranks (beware of his t-shirt cannon!), Fredbird personifies the heart of Cardinals Nation. S.J. Sharkie (San Jose Sharks, NHL): The self-proclaimed “hardest working fish in sports,” Sharkie is an anthropomorphic shark who debuted in 1992 when the Sharks joined the NHL. Ever since, he’s been a fixture at the “Shark Tank,” skating and clowning around at every home game. Sharkie is legendary for his daring stunts – including a famous bungee rappel from the arena rafters – and makes a splash at over 450 community appearances annually, from schools to weddings (yes, this shark has been a prom date and even a “best fish” at ceremoniessportskeeda.com!). He’s a 20-time NHL All-Star Game participant and was crowned “Most Awesome Mascot” by Cartoon Network in 2012 – the first hockey mascot ever to earn that honor. Sebastian the Ibis (University of Miami, NCAA): An iconic college mascot with roots as far back as the 1950s, Sebastian is a white ibis bird who embodies Hurricane pride. Folklore at The U notes that the ibis is the last animal to seek shelter before a hurricane and the first to reappear after the storm – a symbol of bravery that Sebastian has carried on since his official debut in 1958. Dressed in Miami’s orange and green, Sebastian is known for his swagger and antics (including a famous prank where he tried to put out FSU’s flaming spear with a fire extinguisher). He’s strutted through multiple national championships as the spirited ambassador of Miami’s sports. Now, as the only collegiate character in this year’s class, Sebastian brings a proud college tradition into the Hall of fame. TORO (Houston Texans, NFL): A bull with a big personality, TORO has been charging up crowds in Houston since the Texans’ inaugural season in 2002. Sporting Texans gear and oversized horns, TORO is the ultimate showman – flipping into endzones, performing trampoline dunks, and engaging fans with comedic skits. He’s a 11-time Pro Bowl mascot selection and this year proved his dominance by securing the highest votes from both the public and the Hall’s executive committee. “We are so proud to have TORO inducted… we share this recognition with Texans fans everywhere,” said Andrew Johnson, the Texans’ senior mascot program manager, crediting the Houston community for bringing TORO to life. Off the field, TORO runs an anti-bullying school program (“TORO Takes the BULL out of Bullying”) and even authored a children’s book about Toros life – truly a community hero in a bull suit. Each of these mascots has become much more than just a sideline entertainer – they are community icons and the living “spirit animals” of their franchises. Together, this diverse class of inductees represents the best of the best in mascot history, from pro sports powerhouses to collegiate legends. Why They Made the Hall: Achievements and ImpactEarning a spot in the Mascot Hall of Fame is no small feat – the selection process is competitive and criteria are strict. To even be nominated, a mascot must have at least 10 years of experience and a proven record of excellence on and off the field. The Class of 2025 emerged from a ballot of 28 nominees that included popular mascots from all corners of sports. Fans played a huge role in the outcome: over 125,000 votes were cast in a spirited two-week online voting period, reflecting an outpouring of support from communities nationwide. Those fan votes, combined with input from an executive committee of mascot performers and sports industry pros, ultimately decided which characters would receive the Hall of Fame call. So what set Blitz, Fredbird, Sharkie, Sebastian, and TORO apart? In short, decades of dedication and some truly unique achievements: Blitz: Not only has Blitz been energizing Seattle since the late ’90s, he’s also earned peer recognition for his craft. In 2022, Blitz was voted NFL Mascot of the Year and even received the league’s “Anchor in the Community” award for his charitable work. Whether he’s raising the 12th Man flag, visiting hospitals, or breaking a dance move, Blitz’s impact on and off the field made him a top vote-getter. Fredbird: Longevity and consistency are Fredbird’s forte. With 40+ years under his wings, he has become the 9th MLB mascot ever inducted into the Hall– joining legends like the Phillie Phanatic and Mr. Met. Voters undoubtedly noticed his resume: thousands of games cheered, multiple championships witnessed, and an enduring presence in St. Louis community events. The fact that Fredbird still co-stars on a children’s TV show in his forties speaks to his lasting appeal S.J. Sharkie: Sharkie’s relentless work ethic earned him the nickname “Hardest Working Fish in Sports,”. He logs roughly 450 appearances a year from schools to charity eventssportskeeda.com, and has been the face of numerous community programs like “Reading Is Cool” and anti-bullying campaigns. Hall of Fame voters took note of Sharkie’s star power too – he’s represented the Sharks at over 20 NHL All-Star games and even made pop-culture waves by winning a national “Most Awesome Mascot” award on Cartoon Network Few mascots can boast that kind of influence on both sports and community, making Sharkie a shoo-in. Sebastian the Ibis: As a college mascot, Sebastian brought a different kind of legacy. He’s been rallying Miami Hurricanes fans for generations – literally since the 1950s – and is intertwined with the very identity of the university. His induction recognizes not just his longevity, but also his cultural impact: Sebastian is a symbol of Miami’s resilience (just like the ibis bird he portrays) and a staple at championship games and campus events. He’s led the Hurricanes onto the field for decades and even sparked national headlines with his mischievous antics. In the Hall of Fame voting, Sebastian’s storied history and unmistakable swagger clearly resonated. TORO: The numbers speak volumes for TORO. According to the Houston Texans, TORO “earned the highest number of votes amongst the Executive Committee and ranked highest for public votes of all mascots on the ballot” houstontexans.com – essentially topping both the judge’s scorecard and the fan poll. This double victory reflects TORO’s standout reputation. His high-flying acrobatics (from backflips to big stunts) and hilarious social media pranks have made him a modern fan favorite. More importantly, his community involvement – like reaching over 50,000 kids with his anti-bullying school program – shows the heart beneath the horns. TORO’s all-around excellence made it easy to see why he deserved the Hall call on the first try. Collectively, the Class of 2025 excelled in the core values the Mascot Hall of Fame looks for: character, performance, community impact, Each inductee has a unique story of how they’ve gone above and beyond the typical mascot duties to become beloved ambassadors for their teams and cities. They ignite fan passion, create lifelong memories, and even inspire charity and education – truly earning the title of Hall of Famers. A Hall of Fame Homecoming and LegacyInduction into the Mascot Hall of Fame is a lifetime honor, but for these characters it’s also a new beginning of celebration. In the coming months, each mascot will enjoy a hometown induction ceremony. Rather than one central event, the Hall of Fame is hitting the road – “Induction ceremonies will be held in each mascot’s home city, offering fans a front-row seat to celebrate their local legend,” the Hall announced. That means Seahawks fans will see Blitz feted at Lumen Field, Cardinals fans will cheer Fredbird at Busch Stadium, and so on. Expect pom-poms shaking and confetti cannons blasting in each city, as local communities get to personally thank the mascots that have given them so much joy. Hall of Fame founder David Raymond sees the bigger picture in all this. By honoring mascots, the Hall “celebrates the unsung heroes of sports and communities”. These five inductees, the Noimaees of 2025, exemplify the positive impact a costumed character can have – from elevating team spirit to lifting children’s spirits in a hospital visit. They prove that mascotting is an art and a passion that deserves recognition. As Raymond put it, “Mascots don’t just hype up crowds, they bring us together, lift our spirits, and create lifelong memories" From David's LinkedIn So here’s to Blitz, Fredbird, S.J. Sharkie, Sebastian the Ibis, and TORO – the newest members of the Mascot Hall of Fame. Their induction is an energetic, celebratory reminder that sports are about more than scores on a board; they’re about joy, community, and a giant dancing bird or bull making us all feel like kids again. The Class of 2025 has taken a well-earned victory lap into the Hall of Fame, and the whole mascot-loving world is cheering – loudly, colorfully, and with endless spirit – right alongside them. Class of 2025 Photos Sources: Official Mascot Hall of Fame Class of 2025 miamihurricanes.com Good Morning America coverage of National Mascot Day reveal (ABC News, June 17, 2025) abcnews.go.com St. Louis Cardinals & KRCG News – Fredbird induction krcgtv.com Houston Texans Official Release – TORO’s Hall of Fame induction houstontexans.com Sportskeeda – S.J. Sharkie profile and achievements (mascot appearances and awards) sportskeeda.com Small Editor Note: We released incorrect information pertaining to the Hall still having an active location. The original location is now closed, and in the near future, Mascot Hall of Fame may return in physical form. For now, it will remain a great online resource, and mascot celebrations will be held at their home locations, as we stated a bit earlier in this article.

The University of Cincinnati's Bearcat mascot has once again demonstrated exceptional talent and spirit by securing its third national title at the 2025 Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) Mascot National Championship. This victory, achieved in January 2025, follows previous championships in 2022 and 2023, solidifying Bearcat's position as a dominant force in collegiate mascot competitions. In the Division IA Mascot category, Bearcat delivered a captivating performance that earned a top score of 93.33, tying with the University of Tennessee's Smokey for first place. This accomplishment reflects Bearcat's consistent dedication to excellence and the University of Cincinnati's commitment to fostering school spirit. The UCA Mascot National Championship evaluates participants on various criteria, including creativity, crowd engagement, and overall performance. Bearcat's routine stood out for its dynamic energy and ability to captivate both judges and spectators. Beyond the competition floor, Bearcat remains an active ambassador for the University of Cincinnati, making over 400 appearances annually at sporting events, community engagements, and university functions. This extensive involvement underscores Bearcat's role in promoting school pride and connecting with the broader community. As Bearcat celebrates this third national title, the University of Cincinnati community beams with pride, looking forward to future displays of spirit and excellence from their beloved mascot. For a closer look at Bearcat's award-winning performance, you can watch the routine here: Featured Photos of Bearcat