Making Mascot History
Competing at UCA College Nationals this year was an experience I will never forget—especially stepping onto that stage not just as a mascot, but as our school's very first mascot to ever compete at nationals. Representing our program in the Large Co-ed Gameday division and earning 3rd place made the journey even more meaningful.
From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was electric. Being surrounded by some of the most talented college programs in the country was both humbling and motivating. As a mascot, my role is different from the athletes beside me. I don't stunt or tumble, but I carry the responsibility of embodying our school spirit, energy, and identity. Every movement, interaction, and performance has to tell a story—our story.
Preparing for nationals pushed me in new ways. Performing in a mascot suit requires stamina, awareness, and exaggerated performance quality to connect with both judges and the crowd. There's no speaking—only body language, timing, creativity, and crowd engagement. I focused heavily on character development, clean motions, strong facials (even through the suit), and making sure every second on the floor was intentional. In the Gameday division especially, it's about authenticity—bringing a real sideline atmosphere to the national stage.
Walking into the arena for prelims was surreal. The lights, the crowd—it all felt bigger. But once the performance began, it became about doing what we've practiced and trusting the process. Feeding off the team's energy and the crowds reactions reminded me why mascots are so important to the gameday experience. We aren't just entertainment; we are a bridge between the team and the fans. Finals felt even more intense. Knowing we had the opportunity to make history for our school added pressure, but also pride. When we finished our routine, I felt confident that we had left everything on the floor.
Hearing our school announced in 3rd place in the Large Co-ed Gameday division was a moment of pure accomplishment fro me. Not only had we medaled at UCA College Nationals, but we had done it during our first year competing with a mascot. Every early morning, late night practice and emotional moment pushed us to this point and we shoed up and made a name for us on the floor. being out there with my team made me feel what its like to be a reiver. This year at UCA wasn't just about placement. It was about representation, growth, and making history. And as the first mascot to compete for our school, earning 3rd place will always be something I carry with pride. GO BIG BLUE!