Mascot Performer Guide
Over time, the Rally costumed mascot will be brought to life by multiple student performers. It is important that each performer behave consistently so the audience does not detect any noticeable differences in Rally’s behavior or personality. Any sign of the human performer inside the costume will break the illusion of Rally Raider, the mascot.
Ideal performer height range is between 5’9" and 6'.
Each performer must have a handler to help them in and out of the costume, to escort them
at all times, and to get them out of challenging areas or situations that may occur.
Always uphold a positive demeanor and image as a representative of Seminole State College.
Do not remove any part of your costume in public. Only the performer and handler should see Rally in transition.
Secure a secluded area to change in and out of the costume. Transport the costume in the provided duffle carry bag, so that it is completely concealed from any potential audience.
Never Speak or Make any Other Noises While in Costume!
Instead use exaggerated motions and animated gestures to communicate with the audience.
The crowd looks to a mascot for entertainment and leadership, so you should always be moving or gesturing. Rally should consistently come across as positive, energetic, and friendly.
Rally's Gestures
Greet
Wave both hands side to side in a welcoming motion, with your head held high and your body positioned to show excitement when greeting someone. The bigger the wave, the easier it is for others to see.
Goodbye
Hold one hand up near your face with fingers extended, then open and close your hand three times.
Surprise
Throw your head back and lift both arms up with elbows bent. Shift weight to back leg and bend front knee. Slightly rock back and forth in excitement.
Laugh
Place both hands on your stomach and nod your head in an exaggerated motion.
High Five
Extend your right hand upward and outward, palm open, to invite a high five.
Fist Bump
Extend your right hand outward in a closed fist to invite a fist bump.
We're #1
Raise your right hand in a fist with your index finger extended.
Wing Flap
Rally is a bird. If space allows, extend both arms and flap your wings three times in a row while your knees are slightly bent. You're about to take off!
Interacting with Younger Children
Kneel down on one knee to lower yourself to a child’s eye level. Position your hands on sides of Rally's face/cheeks and tilt head to appear friendly and sweet.
Before You Start
Come dressed and ready to go! You’ll need:
- Your own t-shirt, shorts, and socks
- It gets HOT inside the costume, so dress light and stay hydrated
- Sweatbands (head and wrist) are highly recommended
- If you have long hair, pull it back into a ponytail to stay cool and comfortable
- Leave your cell phone with your personal belongings. Do not put it in your shorts pocket. It shows through Rally's shorts and you don't want it ringing during an event.
Getting Dressed (Let’s Suit Up!)
Step 1
Step into the mesh shorts with the attached yellow leggings.
Step 2
Pull on the mesh shirt with the attached blue fuzzy arms. Handler to assist with zip on back of shirt.
Step 3
Pull on the light blue mascot shorts over the leggings. Handler to assist with fitting bird tail into shorts hole.
Step 4
Put on the white mascot jersey with handler assistance. Handler to zip side of jersey.
Step 5
Sit down and pull on the mascot sneakers. They are labeled "R" for right foot and "L" for left foot. Handler to tie shoe laces.
Step 6
Choose the glove size option that fits you best (medium or extra large) and pull on gloves. Handler to assist and use velcro to close internal leather glove first and then to close external fuzzy material for each hand.
Step 7
Carefully put on the mascot head. Your handler will help adjust the neck bandana to sit neatly on top of the jersey (not tucked inside).
Take Breaks & Pace Yourself
- Sessions will be limited to 20 minutes in full costume.
- After each session, take a 15 minute break in a private area.
- During breaks, remove the head and shoes to help release heat.
- Don’t go all-out right away—pace yourself so you can keep your energy up throughout the event!
Performer Fit
- Ideal performer height range is between 5’9" and 6'.
Work with a Handler
- Every performer must have a handler.
- Your handler helps you get in and out of the costume, escorts you at all times, and assists if situations become crowded or uncomfortable.
Physical Readiness
- Performing as a mascot is physically demanding—be sure you’re in good physical condition and ready to stay active.
Fuel Up Smart
- Eat and hydrate before your appearance.
- Avoid heavy or greasy foods—they can drain your energy.
- Choose high-carbohydrate foods like grains, bread, pasta, or dried fruit to help maintain energy.
Stay Hydrated
- Drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after your performance—especially on hot days. Water is always a great option!
- Electrolyte drinks like Gatorade are great for replacing what you lose through sweat.
- Avoid soda and carbonated drinks.
Inspection by Handler
To keep our mascot looking its best, the handler should take a few minutes after each performance to inspect and clean the costume.
Inspect Costume For:
- Rips or tears, especially along seams
- Signs of wear on the undersuit, clothing, or sneakers
Cleaning Tips
Head, Gloves, and Sneakers:
- Lightly spray with Febreeze to keep fresh.
- Use baby wipes for quick spot cleaning as needed.
- Hang the costume up and allow it to fully air dry between performances.
Undersuit (leggings and mesh top), Jersey and Shorts:
- Wash in clothes washing machine in cold water.
- Mix 3 parts liquid laundry detergent (Woolite works great) with 1 part dish soap (Dawn preferred).
- Tumble dry on NO HEAT.
Storage
- Always store the costume hanging on a sturdy hanger (not inside the duffle carry bag)
- Keep the head right-side up to maintain its shape
- Never place the head upside-down on the floor or a shelf
Professional Cleaning
The mascot costume should be dry cleaned as needed, at the expense of Seminole State College.
The costume can be cleaned by:
Total Wardrobe Services Co., Inc.
1992 Kentucky Ave.
Winter Park, FL 32789
Phone: 407.628.8331