The word mascot relates, in its original form, to any kind of person, animal or object held to bring luck to a certain, defined group of people. Particular examples are associated with bodies such as sporting teams, educational institutions and military units. Many companies or other commercial brands, such as major sporting events, now often have their own mascots too, inextricably linked to their corporate identity.

The word \’mascot derives from a French term meaning any object which was regarded as bringing luck to a household or family. That principle applies today, and the word is used to refer to a number of different things. However, the term is generally used these days to refer to an individual in a large, cartoon costume who clowns around, usually at sporting events, to provide some extra entertainment.

The word can be used differently though. Real animals are sometimes used as mascots for units in the British Army, for example, a tradition which dates back years. The Irish Guards have an Irish Wolfhound which parades with the regiment, while the Royal Regiment of Wales have a goat as their special animal. A Norwegian unit actually adopted one of Edinburgh Zoo\’s King penguins following a trip to Scotland.

In British soccer, there is also a tradition of children acting as mascots for their clubs. This involves dressing in the club kit and running out onto the field ahead of kick-off with the players. A day to remember for many children, the practice has become common worldwide, with often a whole two teams\’ worth of mascots running out for international matches.

Of course, the use of mascots has not been free of controversy. Some mascots in English football have taken rivalry with opposing supporters or teams to ridiculous levels, with at least one having faced assault charges in the past for attacking a rival. While this is rare, it does demonstrate the level of passion which can be associated with the process of being a mascot in the world of sport.

Other controversies have been associated with the idea in American sports, where the use of Native American figures has often been viewed as demeaning and insulting. The use of such symbols has now generally been moderated, with a much more inclusive spin placed on using such representative and stereotypical figures. The use of clearly recognizable figures as mascots is now relatively rare, though it did persist until around the 1970s.

Often, people decide to fund raise by running in mascot costumes, something which attracts attention and helps them to increase the amount of cash people donate to their cause. This can be funny and edifying, but also carries its risks. Anyone thinking about running a race dressed in costume needs to take into account the extra weight that they will be carrying. This means training with the suit on is essential, or someone\’s health and even their life could be in danger on the day of the race.

Using a mascot is a great way to inject some additional fun into sporting events. The idea stretches back to ancient traditions of the jester or the fool and relates to something deep in the human psyche. After all, who does not enjoy seeing someone dress up and act like an idiot in the name of amusement?

Manufacturer of the World\’s Most lovable mascots. We also specialize in corporate mascot if you\’ve got an unparalleled love for your team to match your sports passion. Loonie Times Mascot Character Productions 1720 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON M6R 1B3,

Manufacturer of the World\’s Most lovable mascots. We also specialize in corporate mascot if you\’ve got an unparalleled love for your team to match your sports passion.
http://www.loonietimes.com

Author Bio: Manufacturer of the World\’s Most lovable mascots. We also specialize in corporate mascot if you\’ve got an unparalleled love for your team to match your sports passion. Loonie Times Mascot Character Productions 1720 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON M6R 1B3,

Category: Business
Keywords: Mascots,mascot