How to Be a College Football Mascot

A great way to show your collegiate spirit is to become your college football mascot. One benefit includes viewing the football games from the best seat in the house (right on the sidelines) and, depending on your school, you may even qualify for scholarship money. But being a mascot isn't all fun and games. It's hard work but worth it to be an athletic team supporter.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Consult with your school's athletic department to determine if there are openings. As part of the spirit squad, the mascot usually travels and practices with the cheerleaders.
2. Fill out all the necessary paperwork, and turn it in on time. You don't want to go through all the formalities, only to miss the deadline for the application.
3. Think on your feet. During the audition, the judges may ask you what you would do in certain situations, such as if you make a child cry or if your team is losing by a big margin. It's best to be somewhat prepared during your try-out.
4. Exercise to get yourself into excellent physical condition. Being a mascot requires energy, as well as the ability to perform acrobatic moves. Keep in mind that the mascot costume most likely weighs at least 10 to 15 pounds. Plus, if it's hot outside, it's even hotter inside your costume. If you're in great shape, the extra weight and heat shouldn't bother you too much.
5. Have fun. Being a college football mascot is about entertaining people and revving them up to support the team. It's OK to act a little goofy, as long as it's not offensive. Creativity is the key.

Tips & Warnings

• You need to be a people person if you want to be a college football mascot. You're expected to interact with the fans, pose for pictures with adults and children and generally rally the spectators.
• Make sure you know the rules of the game. Study up on your football knowledge if you're a little rusty. The worst thing you could do is be unprepared and start cheering when your team made a blunder.
• Don't take hecklers personally as a mascot. People are going to make fun of you and may even toss things in your general direction. You need to have a level head while representing your college and football team.