Instructions for Mascot Costume Usage

Whether it's in the arena or stadium with a big-name sports team or on the sidelines of the hometown field, team mascots are the colorful jesters that act and react with fans to get them involved in the game. Simply wearing the costume isn't enough: underneath the padding, the person wearing the costume needs to be energetic and engaging, following a few simple mascot "rules" to keep the fans cheering.

Instructions

    • 1

      Watch both the game and the fans in the stands in an effort to pick your "spots": opportunities to get the fans going as well as keep them entertained. Examples of this would be during free throws in basketball games, when your antics would help distract the visiting player from making the shot, or cheering on the home team during penalty shots or when kicking the extra point.

    • 2

      Interact with fans whom you find interesting. Energetic fans can provide a few entertaining moments (they may even seek you out) and so can those who seem disinterested in the game. The sky's the limit when it comes to interacting with the crowd, but always keep it clean and family oriented. Touching fans should be limited to small hugs or pats on the head---as long as the other person initiates the contact. Also, never speak; it's the "unwritten" rule among mascots.

    • 3

      Keep an eye out for children. Most kids flock to costumed mascots and want to shake hands, give high-fives or hugs, or to get a photo op with mom or dad in tow. Gauge some kids as you approach them; some may see you as a scary-looking giant, and you'll want to avoid frightening them or making them cry.

    • 4

      Walk around the arena or sidelines and try to be as engaging as possible, but at the same time, avoid distracting fans from the game during pivotal moments, such as when the team is close to scoring. Fans will certainly be upset if you were standing in their way or trying to attract attention during a touchdown, the game-tying home run or the go-ahead goal.