A school with strong school spirit is defined by many important factors: energetic student sections, a strong sense of school pride and standout sports teams. School spirit fosters camaraderie in schools, bringing teachers and students together on a common ground: enthusiasm for the community.
There is, however, one feature that influences school spirit that has not been prevalent at WHS in recent years. A feature that could increase student engagement, attendance at games and excitement for our teams is our school mascot: the Blue Devil.
Mascots have been associated with school teams and competitions since the 19th century. Their use? To serve the school community by generating excitement and a positive atmosphere. They are almost a second “cheerleader” for whatever game they are at. Since the football team is the only school sports team with a cheerleading squad, a school mascot is especially helpful to generate student excitement about other sporting events.
According to research from varsitybrands.com, “All audiences universally characterize school spirit as pride, often conveyed through mascots, and other key branding elements that contribute to a sense of community.” ‘Mascots’ is the keyword in this research. A mascot is more than just a costume — it is a visual and emotional anchor for school identity.
According to a Hi’s Eye Sports article published Apr. 9, 2023, by Sutton Factor and Jared Goldman, WHS alum Patrick Ryan decided to pose as our Blue Devil mascot for a select few winter sporting events his senior year. Ryan did not seek out the job himself; he was overheard by former WHS athletic director Sandy Mamary discussing his interest in it and was subsequently offered the opportunity.
During the football game two years ago against Scotch Plains-Fanwood, current senior Sofia Buoscio surprised her classmates by attending the game dressed as the Blue Devil mascot. Buoscio decided to be the mascot after being asked by an SGA member. She recalls that it was an enjoyable experience and when asked to do it, “[she] didn’t think twice about it.”
When asked whether WHS athletic director Jim DeSarno would consider actively seeking a mascot like SGA did with Buoscio, he admitted there were no plans in motion. He explained, “I want kids to come to games and enjoy them, but I also have to worry about safety and behavior.” The way a student behaves while representing the Blue Devil mascot reflects the entire school. Whoever wears the outfit carries great responsibility.
Desarno believes that if it is done the right way, a school mascot definitely increases overall school spirit. However, he acknowledges that a mascot is not the only aspect that influences it. “I think our school spirit is not really hot and cold, but it’s all depending on when teams are doing well,” said DeSarno. “When there’s a huge rivalry game, like one against Scotch Plains, we know the crowds will be there. School spirit is a combination of success on the field and the enthusiasm of the students.”
If WHS wants to reignite its school spirit, bringing back the Blue Devil could be a great first step. Whether through auditions, rotating volunteers or giving the mascot a consistent home, it will bring energy, pride and community back into the student sections, which have been needed for a long time.
