A History Of The Mascot

The term 'mascot' is in origin a French term, and was used in parts of France to refer to any kind of object which a family or household regarded as bringing them good fortune. The word is now more widely used to refer to people, animals, or objects which are associated symbolically with a group of people. Sports teams, military units and, increasingly, commercial ventures, use them these days.

Although its roots are in France, the term is now considered to be an English word, and the concept behind it is a global one. The idea of a mascot bringing good luck still applies in many cases. Often in contemporary times though, it means a person who is dressed in large, comically exaggerated costume, a person who either indulges in robust physical comedy or interacts with children and families at sporting events.

There are different shades of meaning to the word though, reflecting the differing contexts in which it is now used. Real animals are occasionally used by certain groups as their mascot, particularly military units. In the British Army, the Royal Regiment of Wales have a goat as their mascot, while the Irish Guards have an Irish wolfhound; one Norwegian unit even adopted a penguin from Edinburgh Zoo.

In British sports, especially soccer and rugby league, a tradition exists where children act as mascots for one game for the club they support. This usually involves running onto the field with the teams, dressed in playing kit. A nice day out for them, this has stretched across the world, and is now often seen at soccer's major events and international fixtures.

There has been some controversy attached to the use of mascots though. Some mascots in the world of English soccer have assaulted their counterparts from other clubs when matters have become heated. Such a reaction probably shows the passionate nature of people who choose to fulfill this role at the clubs they support.

There has also been some controversy created in the United States by the use of mascots relating to ethnic identity, particularly in the case of Native American themed concepts. Some of these were regarded as offensive or demeaning and have largely be altered nowadays. Most sporting mascots in the United States now place a much greater emphasis on inclusivity.

Wearing a mascot costume to run races in has become increasingly popular over recent years, helping fundraisers attract more cash for their good causes. This is amusing and always worthwhile, but also potentially hazardous, due to the additional weight of the outfit. Anyone considering whether or not to do this now needs to remember to train properly, running in the costume wherever possible.

A mascot is now seen at most sporting events and some commercial activities. The concept stretches way back into the depths of human history, recalling concepts like the jester and the fool from history. What is clear is that most people seem to enjoy the idea of someone getting dressed up and clowning around in public.