As the Bloomington Bison hockey team prepares for its inaugural season, the organization is looking to fill the role of a mascot.
Madison Keefe, manager of community relations and partner fulfillment for the Bison, is responsible for recruiting the mascot and has emphasized the importance of finding energetic candidates who can engage with the community.
“From my childhood, I have imagined mascots to be very personable, outgoing, and energetic. You want to reflect what you feel on the inside on the outside so people want to engage with you,” Keefe said.
The mascot’s duties will include interacting with fans during games and events. Keefe outlined her vision for how the mascot should connect with the audience.
“Specifically, what I am looking for to be ideal is if they can skate; they don't have to. I see them being on ice interacting with the crowd, similar to what a cheerleader would be doing. We will have an ice crew of gals and maybe guys who will be interacting with the fans as well,” Keefe said.
Keefe added that there are physical requirements to be hired to be the mascot. People interested in the mascot need to be in the height range of 5-feet-8 and 6-feet-2. They should also weigh between 160 and 220 pounds.
Keefe also discussed the safety training that will be required for the mascot role. She says with the goal of hiring multiple performers, each mascot will be able to take regular breaks. Additionally, a handler, another intern, will assist in navigating the game day plan.
“With this being our inaugural season we’re going to want them to know what they should be doing. So experience is definitely encouraged. The training won’t necessarily be provided; it’s going to be more as we go on,” Keefe explained.
In terms of compensation, the mascot will be paid for each game they attend and for public appearances, including birthday parties. The mascot is required to be present for all 36 home games throughout the season as well as any scheduled public events.
As the season inches closer, Keefe mentioned that the mascot suit is still in production.
“He is still in the making. This next month I believe is our target for the mascot to be done, have the suit ready,” Keefe said.
The Bloomington Bison encourages anyone interested in applying for mascot positions or who know potential candidates to reach Keefe directly at mkeefe@bloomingtonbisonhockey.com.
As preparations continue for the team's inaugural season, Keefe said the Bison also look to connect with the community through various events and engage with fans in multiple ways.
