Expert: Alisa Hicklin - 9/2/2002

Question
hey,
well, i dont know where to begin with my questions but i guess i was just wanting some advice on being a mascot. right now i am attending a small D-1 school and in the past the mascot has not been the most vital part of the cheerleading program but i am wanting to realy get it going both in the stadium and in the community. after making friends with some of the cheerleaders, i was asked to take on the part of the mascot which i am very excited about doing. however, all my life i have been the football/baseball player who has never been involved with anything like this. but like i said im really looking forward to getting people excited and playing with the kids and all that other stuff that comes with the mascot role. so if you would, please give me some advice on getting started and what i should be prepared for, etc. if you have aol/aim then you can talk to me at fielddirt57..thanks

aaron

Answer
Hey Aaron,

I'm glad you emailed me!  When I started the mascot thing, I didn't really know what was up either.  From my experience, the best thing you can do is just go buck wild.  Alot of times, people will want you to do big skits or alot of stuff with the cheerleaders.  If that sounds fun to you, do it, but if not, DEFINITELY do your own thing.  Since you were an athlete, you've got an even better perspective.  Just go nuts out there.

My university had a great pep band, so I learned some funny dance moves.  It was always stupid stuff, like break dancing or fake tap dancing (trust me, I didn't even come CLOSE to doing it right).  I always watched alot of music videos.  After a while, I could bust out dance moves better than NSYNC.  Not to mention, it's so freaking funny.  I also went to step shows (black fraternity steps) and watched them.

The other thing to remember is that you really are in the spotlight.  You're on TV alot and the kids are always watching you.  With a college crowd, you can push the envelope on what's acceptable, but always be careful.  Noone wants to see the mascot freaking the floor on the 6:00 news.  :)

Also, try to do some community service if you have the opportunity.  I used to do Special Olympics or different fund-raisers and it really meant alot.

just have fun and Be CAREFUL!  I speak from experience.  I was beat up three times as the mascot, and two of them were really rough.

If you have any questions, email me again or AOL IM me at AKHicklin, when i'm online.

Alisa