Wisconsin Spirit Squad

Bucky Badger

Wisconsin’s loveable mascot, Bucky Badger, always ranks high in fan appeal and enthusiasm. Although badgers in various forms had been the University of Wisconsin mascot for decades, the version that is currently known as Bucky, sporting a cardinal and white sweater, was first drawn in 1940 by professional illustrator Art Evans. In 1949, a student wore a badger outfit with a papier-mâché head at the homecoming game. A pep rally was held to determine the mascot’s name—Buckingham U. Badger.

The nickname “Badgers,” was borrowed from the state of Wisconsin, which was dubbed the “Badger State.” The name didn’t come from the animals in the region, but rather from an association with lead miners in the 1820s. Without shelter in the winter, the miners had to “live like Badgers” in tunnels burrowed into hillsides.

There are a minimum of six student-athletes needed to meet all the various requests for Bucky Badger appearances. From sporting events to community service requests to the occasional wedding, Bucky is a popular fixture among Wisconsin fans.

Bucky Badger Tryout Information

UW Cheerleaders

The University of Wisconsin Cheerleaders are a close-knit group of college athletes. This group consists of both the Red and White squads. The red squad cheers for football and men's basketball; while the white squad cheers for women's basketball. We participate in Public Relations events, postseason play and many university functions. UW Cheerleaders are not only student-athletes and crowd leaders, but ambassadors of the University of Wisconsin.

Cheerleaders Tryout Information

UW Dance Team

The University of Wisconsin Dance Team performs at all home football and men’s basketball games. UW Dancers are not only student-athletes and performers, but ambassadors of the University of Wisconsin who attend many PR and University events. Since 2001, the Wisconsin Dance Team has consistently been ranked in the top ten at UDA College Nationals.

Dance Team Tryout Information

If you have any questions regarding the UW Spirit Squad please contact:

Josette Scheer - Spirit Squad Director
1440 Monroe Street
Madison, WI 53711
(608) 262-6703
jrs@athletics.wisc.edu