This year, St. Dominic fans get to experience the school spirit through our Crusader mascot! Although the crusader has been in hiding, he is back and ready to run the stands.
The Crusader mascot is known for its school spirit, however, it has been in hiding for years. While he makes an annual appearance at homecoming games most years, he tends to opt out of most home football games.
“I think it’s cool how the mascot comes out once a year, but I do wish we got to see it more often,” senior Alison White said.
Most of the crusader’s appearances rely on the cheerleaders. The mascot is generally seen cheering alongside the cheer team. Because of this, cheer must coordinate with the mascot. Fun band dances and loud cheers are a crucial part of running the sidelines. It may be difficult to work the student section hand in hand without practicing together.
“I love practicing with our mascot, it definitely helps the games run a lot more smoothly,” senior Jill Johnson said.
In past years, including the mascot had not been a priority when it comes to games. There are many other things to worry about when it comes to Friday night lights, especially for the spirit squads. Worries such as coordinating themes, working with the ambitious student section, looking good for cheers, and performing a routine for halftime, take up most practice times and work. This year, however, including our crusader friend was made a priority to the cheerleaders and coaches.
This season, the cheer program welcomed a new head coach, Mrs. Gerard. She always puts out the most effort to help the cheerleaders engage with the fans and work towards an even more spirited student section. Coach Gerard and new assistant Coach Peters love to find new ways to lift the spirits on the stands, the introduction of an involved mascot seemed to be the key to success!
“I never understood why the mascot was so rarely seen, but I’m happy to see it more often! It has definitely been worth the hard work getting it out and ready for the season!” Mrs. Gerard said.
Not only does including the mascot hype up the student section more, but it also is being used as an effort to give our beloved crusader a makeover! Our crusader mascot hasn’t had a glow up in awhile, but that is only because he wasn’t used enough to get one. Coaches and players are trying to set forth to get St. Dominic a new and improved mascot.
“I’m really hoping to get a new mascot, the one we have is just unsettling and definitely out dated,” junior Lily Aubuchon said.
St. Dominic is excited to see our school represented by our crusader mascot. This year will bring many new ways to show our support for fans and cheer on the teams to victory!
