Ready to learn how to become a football mascot? This detailed guide covers everything you need to know, from requirements and costs to interesting stories and tips for maximizing your chances. Discover how to get involved and make unforgettable memories on the field.
1. Understanding the Role of a Football Mascot
A football mascot isn’t just a fluffy character on the sidelines. There are two types: the costumed entertainer and the children who walk onto the field with the players. This guide focuses on the latter, exploring how young fans can experience the thrill of accompanying their heroes.
1.1. Child Mascots: A Closer Look
Child mascots, also known as player escorts, participate in the pre-match ceremony by walking onto the pitch alongside the players. This tradition offers children a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be close to their favorite athletes and experience the excitement of a professional football game.
1.2. Evolution of the Mascot Tradition
The practice of having children accompany football players onto the field is relatively recent. While children were present in the stands during events like the 1990 World Cup, they didn’t participate on the field. The UEFA European Championship in 2000 marked a turning point, though the reasons for the change remained unclear. The partnership between FIFA and UNICEF for the 2002 World Cup and their ‘Say Yes for Children’ campaign, significantly increased the visibility of child mascots.
2. Why Child Mascots Matter
Several theories explain the presence of child mascots. Some believe it deters fan violence, while others view it as a public relations and marketing strategy for clubs. Regardless of the motivations, the presence of children creates a positive image for teams and offers unique sponsorship opportunities. For instance, McDonald’s sent 1,408 kids to the 2014 World Cup, highlighting the commercial aspect of the tradition.
3. Requirements and Opportunities to Be a Football Mascot
Child mascots line up in Community Shield final
Becoming a football mascot varies by club. Some teams partner with local schools or junior leagues, selecting mascots from those groups. For international events, sponsors like McDonald’s often run programs to choose child mascots. To participate in domestic matches, joining the junior fan club is often the first step.
3.1. Mascot Selection Methods
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Junior Fan Clubs: Many clubs prioritize members of their junior fan schemes.
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Local Partnerships: Some teams work with local schools or youth organizations.
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Sponsor Programs: Major sponsors, like McDonald’s, offer opportunities through promotional campaigns.
3.2. Arsenal’s Approach: A Case Study
Arsenal allows Junior Gunners members to apply through a ballot system. This method exemplifies how clubs provide opportunities to their young supporters.
4. Cost of Being a Football Mascot
The cost of being a mascot varies widely. Some clubs offer the experience for free, while others charge substantial fees. This section breaks down the costs and benefits associated with different clubs.
4.1. Premier League and Championship Clubs with Free Child Mascots (2018-19 Season)
| Club | Ages | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Premier League | ||
| Arsenal | 4-11 | Junior members only + 4 match tickets & club vouchers |
| Chelsea | 6-12 | Junior members only |
| Fulham | 5-12 | Junior members only, does not include kit or tickets |
| Huddersfield Town | 5-12 | Junior members only, includes 2 tickets but no kit |
| Liverpool | 4-11 | Junior members only |
| Manchester City | 5-12 | Junior members only |
| Manchester United | 7-14 | Junior members only |
| Newcastle United | 5-13 | Junior members only |
| Southampton | 5-14 | Junior members only, 2 tickets, no kit provided |
| Championship | ||
| Derby County | 5-12 | Rams squad members, includes 2 tickets, no kit |
| Leeds United | 5-12 | Junior members and season ticket holders |
| Wigan Athletic | Up To 18 | 1 free mascot selected from under 18 season ticket holders, hospitality packages for others |
4.2. Premier League and Championship Clubs That Charge For Child Mascots (2018-19 Season)
| Club | Cost | Ages | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premier League | |||
| Everton | £718 | 5-13 | Includes full kit and 2 tickets, plus 1 free junior member / game |
| West Ham United | £700 | 6-12 | Includes 2 tickets but no kit |
| Leicester City | £600 | 7-11 | Includes 4 tickets, meal and full replica kit |
| Tottenham Hotspur | £405 – £255 | 5-14 | Three categories A-C, different prices mid-week vs weekend, includes 2 tickets and replica kit |
| Wolverhampton Wanderers | £395 – £290 | 4-11 | 3 game categories, Platinum, Gold & Silver – Includes 4 tickets and full replica kit |
| Crystal Palace | £375 (Gold) £100 (Silver) | 5-14 | Gold includes 3 tickets, kit & more, silver is walk-out only |
| Brighton and Hove Albion | £350 (Captain) £250 (Standard) | 7-12 | Both include kit and 2 tickets, captain package leads team out with captain + other benefits |
| Burnley | £300 (VIP) £40 (Escort) | 5-12 | VIP includes kit, 4 tickets, favorite player walk out & more, escort is walk out only |
| Cardiff City | £255 | 4-10 | Includes kit, 2 tickets and other benefits |
| Watford | £250 – £180 | 5-12 | Three categories, A-C, 3 tickets but no kit included |
| Bournemouth | £185 (A) £150 (B) | 4-12 | Must be junior member, category A matches more expensive (e.g. Liverpool). No kit or match ticket included. |
| Championship | |||
| Nottingham Forest | £780 – £600 | 7-12 | Platinum to bronze game grades, 4 hospitality tickets & full kit |
| Sheffield Wednesday | £600 or £240 | 5-13 | Standard & VIP packages available, only VIP comes with tickets (3), neither get kit free |
| Birmingham City | £539 – £99 | 5-14 | Four match categories, two main packages with 2-3 sub-categories, more expensive packages (Beau) comes with kit, 4 tickets & benefits – season holder discount |
| Swansea City | £479 or £420 | 6-12 | Mid-week matches cheaper, comes with replica kit and 4 tickets |
| Millwall | £420 | 5-16 | Also get the kit and 3 matchday tickets |
| Aston Villa | £420 – £350 | 5-14 | Midweek matches cost less, 4 tickets, voucher for kit, meal, club membership & other benefits |
| Norwich City | £379 – £229 | 5-12 | Three experience grades, Captain, Keeper & Mascot – All include full kit and two match tickets |
| Middlesbrough | £350 | 6-13 | Includes 3 tickets and kit |
| Queens Park Rangers | £350 | 4-12 | Or £450 for 2 mascots. Full kit and 4 tickets as part of package. |
| Preston North End | £300 or £250 | Up To 16 | Cheaper mid-week, full kit (choice home or away) & 3 tickets |
| Sheffield United | £300 – £250 | 5-13 | Four game grades, discount junior members, no tickets or kit but comes with club shop voucher |
| Blackburn Rovers | £299 | 5-15 | Includes 4 match tickets & replica kit |
| Bolton Wanderers | £270 – £220 | 5-13 | Price depends on game, includes 4 tickets & full kit. Plus 25 free junior members / season & 1 fan from ground selected prior to kick off |
| Reading | £250 | 5-15 | Includes 4 tickets but no kit |
| Rotherham United | £250 | 5-16 | Meal, 3 tickets and full kit |
| Stoke City | £250 | 5-12 | Comes with replica kit and 3 tickets |
| West Bromwich Albion | £250 or £200 | Cheaper mid-week, 3 tickets free but no kit provided | |
| Ipswich Town | £230 or £200 | Junior member discount, includes 4 tickets and full replica kit | |
| Bristol City | £200 | 5-12 | Comes with 4 tickets but no kit |
| Hull City | £175 or £135 | 4-11 | Discount for junior members, includes 4 tickets, no kit |
| Brentford | From £135 | Includes 4 tickets but no kit |
4.3. The Debate Over Charging Fees
The practice of charging children to be mascots has sparked debate. When Swansea City charged Premier League prices despite being in the Championship, it raised questions about fairness. Some argue that charging allows clubs to fund charitable activities, while others believe it creates inequality.
4.4. Additional Benefits
Most clubs provide more than just the mascot experience. Often included are match tickets, a full kit, professional photos, and meet-and-greets with players and managers. Some clubs also offer signed memorabilia, enhancing the overall experience.
4.5. The Fan Perspective
While the mascot experience can be memorable, some fans have expressed concerns. One parent noted that the seats provided at Cardiff City were subpar and the player meet-and-greet felt rushed, highlighting the need for clubs to ensure a positive experience.
5. Interesting Mascot Stories
Child Mascots with Celtic lining up before the Benfica game
Beyond the standard procedures, numerous compelling stories surround child mascots, showcasing the emotional and community aspects of the tradition.
5.1. Everton’s Virtual Mascot
In a historic first, Everton used a telepresence robot named AV1 to represent Jack McLinden, who was too ill to attend the game in person. This innovative approach allowed Jack to watch, listen, and interact with players remotely.
5.2. Manchester City’s Centenarian Mascots
Manchester City invited 102-year-old Vera Cohen and her 97-year-old sister to be mascots, celebrating their lifelong support for the club.
5.3. Swansea City’s Amputee Mascot
Swansea City offered Callum Williams, an 11-year-old amputee, the chance to be a mascot. This heartwarming gesture highlighted the club’s commitment to inclusivity.
5.4. Ajax Players and Their Mothers
To celebrate Mother’s Day, Ajax players walked onto the pitch with their mothers, creating a touching moment for fans and players alike.
5.5. Stag Do Prank in Blackpool
In a humorous twist, friends on a stag do tricked the groom into being a mascot for Blackpool, complete with a full kit and unexpected walk onto the pitch.
5.6. Sao Paulo’s Canine Companions
Sao Paulo players took stray dogs onto the pitch to promote adoption, raising awareness for animal welfare.
6. Maximizing Your Chances
Here are some actionable steps to maximize your child’s chances of becoming a football mascot:
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Join Junior Fan Clubs: Register your child with the junior fan club of their favorite team.
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Engage with Local Clubs: Participate in local football clubs and community events.
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Monitor Sponsor Programs: Keep an eye on promotions from major sponsors like McDonald’s.
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Apply for Ballots: If available, enter ballots for mascot opportunities.
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Stay Informed: Follow club announcements and news for any mascot-related initiatives.
7. The Lasting Impact
Being a football mascot provides children with an unforgettable experience. It’s a chance to meet their heroes, feel the excitement of a professional match, and create lasting memories.
8. FAQs About Being a Football Mascot
Q1: What age do you have to be to be a mascot?
Age requirements vary by club, typically ranging from 4 to 14 years old.
Q2: How much does it cost to be a mascot?
Costs range from free to over £700, depending on the club and package.
Q3: Do mascots get free tickets?
Many clubs provide free tickets for the mascot and their family.
Q4: Do mascots get a kit?
Some clubs include a full kit, while others do not. Check the specific package details.
Q5: How are mascots selected?
Selection methods include junior fan club ballots, partnerships with local schools, and sponsor programs.
Q6: Can adults be mascots?
While rare, some clubs have invited older fans to be mascots.
Q7: What do mascots do?
Mascots walk onto the pitch with the players before the match and may participate in pre-match activities.
Q8: Are mascot experiences always positive?
While most experiences are positive, some fans have raised concerns about seat quality and rushed meet-and-greets.
Q9: Do all Premier League clubs charge for mascots?
No, some Premier League clubs offer free mascot opportunities.
Q10: How can I find out more about mascot opportunities?
Visit the official website of your favorite club or contact their fan services department.
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