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A Fresh Flight: The Bold Redesign of Reggie Redbird Introduction
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.
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Unleash Your Inner Mascot: Inside Higher Impact Entertainment’s Record-Breaking Mascot Training Camp 2025
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Unleash Your Inner Mascot: Inside Higher Impact Entertainment’s Record-Breaking Mascot Training Camp 2025
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.
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Meet Bo the Beaver: The Official Mascot of the Firefighters – The Hottest Team in Sports
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.
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Stanley C Panther and His Rat Friend, Viktor E. Ratt: Back-to-Back Stanley Cup Champs!
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.
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Mascot Hall of Fame Welcomes the Noimaees: Class of 2025 Induction
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.
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Bearcat Reigns Supreme: Cincinnati’s Mascot Wins Third UCA Mascot Division IA Championship
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
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Insider Justin changed their profile photo
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An Interview with The Hubbard Eagle
Mascot Insider is Pleased to have a Chat with The Hubbard Eagle, and His Pal Isaac has helped provide the answers. We hope you enjoy this Interview! What is a Favorite Skit you've done in the Past? My favorite skit would have to be those at Christmas time! The Eagle brings many gifts to basketball games during the holiday season; a favorite is giving some of Hubbard’s favorite older community members coal for Christmas, while kids can go home with teddy bears, dolls, and even Eagle Plushies. You attend a lot of Mascot Parties in the Area how do you normally get invited to those events? I believe that with The Hubbard Eagle’s popularity growing rapidly, the invitations are easy to come by. The Hubbard Eagle has reached almost 100,000 people through his social networking (that peeked when I was recognized nationally) which gives an easy pass to a lot of recognition. The Eagle has been invited to events and games as far Florida & Oregon. I’ve become friends with many mascots so they also put in a good word to their teams. What was it like to visit Disney World and compete in the Varsity Brands School Spirit Awards? The whole week was so humbling, the send-off through town had community members lining the streets to wish me off to the National Awards Show! Being able to bring The Eagle to Disney was incredible! My whole family is obsessed with Disney, and we have visited almost every year. Of course, this visit was special. During the awards show, there were many points that The Eagle had the whole crowd involved, many of which were not aired on CBS Sports (The Official Award Show Taping). At one point the audience was chanting as I stood on my chair dancing to the DJ music during a commercial break. I had almost every local news channel calling me asking for phone interviews when I was in Orlando! It was an awesome and very rewarding week! I’m just glad I was able to represent Hubbard in such a positive way, at the end of the day that’s my goal. Are there any mascots in which you idolize? Of course! A lot of my work comes from my interests in The Phanatic, Orbit, and Gritty! A close role model I have is Sir CC of the Cavs. I like to think of him as a personal idol, he works hard to create something special for Cleveland and has shown me a lot of what I’m capable of doing! He even called me up while I was in Disney to congratulate me. I wish every young aspiring mascot had someone like him to show that with hard work, you can reach your goals. How has the Prize Money that you’ve earned from winning the Varsity Brands School Spirit Awards helped? Although the prize money was the last thing on my mind during the award show, it has really helped to bring some serious professionalism to the program. All jerseys are now made custom and designed professionally including mascot handlers, new props, costume pieces, and even expenses to pay off travel. Do you have a favorite sport that you like to attend or perform? My favorite to attend is Hubbard’s Friday Night Football Games. The fans are crazy there and I am able to work the crowd really well. It’s for sure the season I look forward to all year. To perform is for sure basketball games. I do two big halftime shows each year, while also being able to provide various skits, costumes, and giveaways for the fans during the course of the season. Outside of Hubbard, I love to bring The Eagle to hockey games! He has his own custom-fitted hockey jersey that’s fitted to his wings! The ice is really fun to play on and the crowd really gets into it! At various professional minor league hockey games, The Eagle has participated in football games, obstacle courses, kickball, races, broomball, and dance-offs which all took place on the ice! What was it like attending the opening of The Mascot Hall of Fame? Being able to attend The Mascot Hall Of Fames, Grand Opening was not only historic for The Hubbard Eagle, but for the Hall Of Fame. No matter where the future takes sports mascots in the Hall Of Fame, the grand opening photograph will forever hold Slugger (Kansas City Royals), KC Wolf (Kansas City Chiefs), Lil’ Red (Nebraska), Nittany Lion (Penn State), Tommy Hawk (Chicago Blackhawks), Thunder & Mini Thunder (Lake Elsinore Storm), and of course The Hubbard Eagle arguably one of the most iconic mascots through High Schools in America. It was also inspiring to see how true dedication to a mascot program can lead to making such an impact on the sports industry by being placed in the Hall Of Fame, where only the greatest are placed, I’d love to be just a little bit like every one of them! In conclusion, I love what I do. It’s a job that all you do is make people happy and laugh! I’m thankful for those who have got me to where I am, and the catch of being a high school mascot is, that every one of my appearances has been free of charge which helps me reach out to a variety of different people and groups. The Hubbard Eagle is a dream come true. We want to thank The Hubbard Eagle and his Pal Isaac for joining us for an interview today. You can find The Hubbard Eagle on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Stay tuned as we bring you more Mascot Interviews over the upcoming weeks right here on MascotInsider.com!
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An Interview with Chompers
Mascot Insider is excited to present another Mascot Interview this time we are interviewing Chompers from the Yartford Yard Goats his pal Caden helped with the answers check them out below! What is a Favorite Skit you've done in the Past? My favorite skit I’ve done was a WWE style royal rumble with 10 other mascots at a hockey game. It was in a big inflatable wrestling wring we all got in and once the bell rang everyone went at it. I had a WWE championship belt with the Hartford yardgoats logo on it and I lifted it up in the air and knocked someone over the ropes with it and the crown went insane it was the best feeling and the most memorable skit I’ve ever done so far. Are there any mascots in which you idolize? The mascots I “Idolize” are KC wolf and Stuff the Magic Dragon. I idolize them because ever since I was little and liked mascots I would always think to myself it’s crazy the amount of stuff they can do in that big suit and I never really understood how much it really takes to do that until I got in a suit that big (Chompers). How do you collaborate with ChewChew? I collaborate with ChewChew on TikTok we go to the baseball stadium once a week to load up on TikToks to post throughout the week. We also go to appearances together all the time and it’s truly amazing how much Chompers and ChewChew click when they do appearances together What have you been doing since the Extended Off Season of Baseball? During the extended off season I have been joining Zoom calls for kids and adults that have birthdays, I go to off site appearances and do drive by birthday party’s for kids and adults around CT it’s really awesome to put a smile on peoples faces especially in a time like now. Another thing I during the extended off season is make lots of TikToks and make Tweets for the Chompers twitter account. Based on what we’ve seen from your online Bio, we understand you like to do Bat Chewing any brand particular that you like the most? My favorite bat to chew would probably be a slugger Bat. We wanna thank Chompers and his pal Caden for taking the time to do an interview with us. You Can follow Chompers on TikTok, Twitter and can follow some of his adventures on the Facebook Team Page.
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An Interview with Top Gunner
Mascot Interviews Is Back and Mascot Insider is pleased to present an interview with Top Gunner the official mascot for the West Texas Warbirds take a read below. Can you tell the Fans a little about your Self and how you became to be the Mascot for Warbird Football Team? I'm Bishop Greene aka Mascot Sensei and I've been a mascot entertainer for over 20 years. I've entertained masses from high school to my collegiate days as Sammy the Bearkat for Sam Houston State. As semi-pro/ professional entertained for the Midland RockHounds ( minor league affiliate of the Oakland A's) and the Odessa Jackalopes (NAHL hockey). Which lead me to this new opportunity to entertain as Top Gunner. Interesting enough, the WTX Warbirds play in the same arena and the owner loved what he witnessed while I entertained the hockey fans and I was asked if I would be the mascot for their sports franchise. I said yes and the rest is history. It was exciting to be a part of creating a mascot for a new team and having complete control developing the character's persons from scratch. Your team has taken home the Championship Two Times so Far. And now you’re joining the NAL League in 2023 how excited are you for the Team and for yourself? I'm super excited about entering the NAL, where they not only the players and fans but also the mascots. They have a mascot of the year award and I am going to compete for the award next season! The West Texas Warbirds are undefeated and fully expect to be challenged next season. We have a target on our backs and we know it but I'm confident that we'll be ready for whichever team we play first. It's been a wild two years for us and our fans are starting gel with this franchise. Is there a Favorite Skit you've done in the Past on the Field or off the Field? One of my personal favorite skits was when I came out to the intro music of James Brown's "Living in America" in front of a baseball crowd in complete awe! It was July 4th and I rocked it!!! I've done skits that received way more appreciation but that one moment I appreciate so much because I introduced the Godfather of soul to a crowd that had no idea he existed! 🤣🤣🤣 Do you have a Pre-Game Ritual if so, what is it or if so, what do you do? I sometimes like to walk amongst the crowds entering the arena before the game begins and scope out fans that appear ready for fun times! I read crowds and navigate from there. How is a game structured for yourself (are you free to do as you please or is it be in a certain area until a certain time) As Top Gunner, it varies from game to game. There may be sponsored events that require my presence. Other times I'm able to improvise. This franchise has shown that it trusts my mascot experience and appreciates my ability to entertain our fans. Do you have a favorite Fan Interaction or Memory if so, what is it? I have certain things that I'll do for certain fans and it's just wit inside joke between the mascot and the fan. Every "penalty box heckle" moment is a favorite of mine. The crowds would get rowdy and I fed off of their energy. But the most memorable moment I had as a mascot was during my days as Sammy the Bearkat. I was standing on the sidelines of the football field and became (informally) introduced to the late Steve "Air" McNair as he was hit out of bounds. Steve later became the starting NFL QB of the Tennessee Titans. The moment was brief but never forgotten! We wanna thank Top Gunner and his pal Bishop Greene for taking the time to do an interview with us. You can follow Top Gunner on Twitter and follow some of his adventures on the Facebook as well. Plus you can also Follow his pal Bishop with his Facebook Page by Clicking Here.