Ten Tips to a Triumphant Tryout

So the big mascot tryouts are in two weeks and you've got your eye on that ever coveted spot... Mascot tryouts are more like auditions--you go out there, and you show them what you got! Not that this makes mascot tryouts any less daunting than those of other sports. In fact, it may make them even more intimidating because you are not judged on any particular skill, but on your very own personal appeal!

Even so, there are ways to enhance your tryout performance. So before you place yourself before the merciless eyes of the judges, read the top ten tips to a triumphant tryout...

1. Prepare...prepare...prepare! As soon as you know that you'll be trying out, take time out of your daily schedule to practice for the big day. The sooner, the better!

2. Watch other mascots in action. Watch how well (or poorly) they relate to the crowd. Take mental notes on what to do and what not to do! Get some first-hand info from the mascots at http://www.spaghetti.com/mascot/tryout.h....

3. Some hot-dogs figure that if they go out there and act sillier than the rest then they have it made! Not so! It takes more than that! Prepare a basic skit ahead of time--what you want to accomplish, what skills you want to show, and most importantly, what personality the mascot would have if you were chosen to portray it!

4. After you've figured out what you'd like to highlight, pick a theme and a song that best suits your skit. I.e., Is your mascot a ferocious, rough-em-up kind of guy? Then you might want to use the theme song from "Rocky"! Whatever you use make sure it will pump up the crowd! And make two copies of the music--just in case. Check out the pumping music of Cheermix at http://www.drillteamexchange.com/dirmusi...

5. Use props--be it another person or even a mannequin. Judges love to see how creative you can get with props. Keep them simple!

6. Use signs. Signs and how you use them are as important to the success of your performance as any other aspect of mascotting. Signs are the easiest way to instruct and lead your judges on what to say and when to say it.

7. Exaggeration is the key to success. Remember when you're in that big burly suit, the strength of your movements is watered down. Act larger than life!! If you're fortunate enough to do so, practice your movements in front of a mirror in a mascot suit. That way you'll have the chance to see what you'll really look like!

8. People often become intimidated by judges...understandably so! However, treat
   The copyright of the article Ten Tips to a Triumphant Tryout in Mascots is owned by Sue Ann Kawecki. Permission to republish Ten Tips to a Triumphant Tryout in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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