Introducing the new Rowdy Spirit Games, an interactive halftime event for all fans of CMU athletics
The Rowdy Mascot Program has taken on a new life to launch into the next level of collegiate mascot performing. On top of adding additional performers to the roster and onboarding a graduate assistant to manage social media, scheduling and event planning, Rowdy will now appear at CMU Athletic events to support student-athletes and to increase fan experience through the Rowdy Spirit Games.
Heightened fan engagement and entertainment at sporting events is already taking place. The spirit game prizes include merchandise and promotions from community partners of CMU Athletics as well as $50 Arcadia play cards for the contestants. Arcadia is the new community arcade and dining experience located in the University Center.
“By fans playing in the Rowdy Spirit games, they are eligible to win Arcadia Play Cards where they can come to enjoy food and beverages while enjoying retro arcade games like pinball, ski ball, billiards, air hockey, Pacman and more,” said Trey Downey, Director of Student Life and member of the campus-wide mascot advisory committee.
Envisioned by the committee, the first Rowdy Spirit Games were inaugurated on October 24 during halftime of the men’s soccer game. Seven daring contestants made their way to the side of Unity Field, assuming their positions around the six initial chairs ready to be claimed. The quickly-paced game sparked competition between students, student-athletes and fans alike, and one winner came out on top.
Mackenzie Armstrong, from the women’s soccer team, proudly walked away as the first-ever winner of the Rowdy Spirit Games.
“As an athlete, it's great seeing Rowdy out at games. He gets the crowd excited and us excited that he's out wandering around to show his support. I had a ton of fun participating in the first-ever Rowdy Spirit Games! It was exciting to participate in and an enjoyable way to spend the half-time.” said Armstrong.
The next Rowdy Spirit Games took place between halves at the women’s basketball exhibition game vs. Colorado College. Not only did the women’s team come out on top with an 85-53-point win, the second Rowdy Spirit Games Champion was crowned after strategically swiping the last chair away from his competitor.
Seeing these half-time games come to life has been an exciting addition to the already anticipated CMU athletic events. Rowdy has been a favorite guest at almost every athletic event this season. His fan engagement, interactions, photo-ops and bubbly waves keep the crowd smiling. Currie Thomason, the Coordinator for Athletic Facilities and Events, expressed how much of an impact Rowdy exudes while attending athletic events.
“Since Rowdy has been at almost every sporting event this year, students and families have exhibited greater school spirit and a greater connection to the community. Knowing they have a devoted fan in the audience also makes the athletes feel more upbeat.” Thomason explained.
Assistant Director for Athletics Facilities & Events Dan McDermott has been a huge supporter of the new halftime entertainment and has always wanted to see something like this come to life.
“Compared to conventional halftime entertainment, the Rowdy Spirit Games creates a new and distinctive atmosphere. These games have already enhanced school spirit and provide an interactive element that gets all types of fans engaged,” said McDermott.
Coming up, Rowdy will be making his appearance during the men’s and women’s soccer games on November 6, and contestants have yet another chance to earn a $50 Arcadia gameplay card donated by the generous sponsor, Student Life. There will be additional games held on November 20 during women's basketball.
“The goal of the Rowdy Spirit Games is to not only elevate school spirit and get fans engaged at events, but it is also an opportunity for us to work with community partners and sponsors to share how important Rowdy is to everything we do here at CMU.” Luci Grooters, the Rowdy Mascot Program Graduate Assistant shared.
The Rowdy Spirit Game’s goal is to continue raising funds that go towards the Rowdy Performer Scholarship Fund, which was created to support Rowdy Performers as they get the education they desire while experiencing a whole different life behind the suit. This is also a great opportunity to give CMU athletic fans something extra to cheer for each week. To participate in the Rowdy Spirit Games, keep an eye out for Rowdy at select sporting events. Upcoming events are posted each week on Rowdy’s social media, @cmesaurowdy. To get in on the action and to sponsor your own Rowdy Spirit Games, contact [email protected]. Go Mavs!