While attending a Milwaukie High School Football game whether that be as a student, Cheerleader, player, or parent, one of the first things you’ll notice is the school’s mascot Mustangus. In this story, we look into the process of making this Mustang magic happen. Who does it benefit? Why is it important? 

When asked about the benefits of having a mascot at school events, Student Government teacher at MHS Kelsey Balint says, “I think it’s fun, I think people like seeing it and I think when he’s energetic the crowd gets energetic. At homecoming little kids were taking pictures with Mustangus, little kids like it” She credits her students for the enthusiasm, “ It’s really student-driven, they’ve been excited to do it.”

 Every student who wears the costume is a volunteer from the student government. Sam Thielke has firsthand experience with our mascot. She had this to say, “The best part about it is you get to get the crowd hyped up, you get to dance a lot.” When asked where we can find our furry friend, Sam says, “Mustangus will be at an open house, football games, and occasionally other sports if requested by students.”

 One reason Mustangus doesn’t frequent more events is a worry of aggression that arises with the student behind the mask. Student Government member Jude Healy described it as an insatiable need from students to know who’s in the costume. “They would come up to me and try to fight my bodyguard or take my mask off. One kid even ripped a hole in the head.” Balint shares this concern, saying, “Sometimes having the mascot at events creates a danger that I don’t wanna put them in.”

When the costume is not being worn, it hangs in a closet beside its retired  “creepy” counterpart, an older version of the Mustang that proves the tradition has been alive for generations. Whether it’s to raise student spirit, give student government kids a hard time, or cheer with the cheerleaders, Mustangus holds a dear spot in all Milwaukie students’ and alumni’s hearts.