The new school mascot debuted at the Homecoming rally last week, but the performer behind the giant will remain unknown.
Mascot hopefuls auditioned during the weeks of Oct. 10 and 18, according to P.E. teacher Heather Brabo, who helped select the mascot. The chosen mascot performed for the first time at the rally on Oct. 27 and again at the Homecoming game.
Leadership teacher Dave Plescia said that the name of the student performing as the mascot will remain anonymous, and that about 10 people auditioned for the spot.
“I was looking for someone who created a persona and someone who was outgoing and could think on the spot,” Brabo said. “I wanted someone who could make me laugh.”
Brabo said that people who tried out had to perform routines to songs, act out emotions, and respond to hypothetical situations.
According to Plescia, the mascot will perform at rallies and home games.
The mascot, named Big Red, appeared in a “giant” costume and danced to various song clips at the Homecoming rally. According to PE teacher Mike Dibley, Redwood has not had a mascot since the early 1990s, when a paper maché giant mascot represented the school.
“We might have to do some auditions again for basketball season, depending on what the student can do,” Plescia said.
Brabo said that she is not sure what the mascot will do in the future.
“Everything is kind of new so we’re going to see how things go,” she said.