Spike, the Bulldog, is the Gonzaga University mascot who appears at all home basketball games and select soccer, volleyball and baseball games. He also appears at University functions around Spokane, often accompanied by the Gonzaga Cheerleading squad. He plays an integral role in Gonzaga Athletics, supporting our teams by rallying the crowds, encouraging Bulldog pride and aiding in on-court and in-game promotions. In 2000, Spike gained national attention when he was chosen to participate with a group of mascots in Nike's "Welcome to Bracketville" advertising campaign for the NCAA Tournament.
Spike Appearances
Spike is available for
appearances in the Spokane community, for events related to Gonzaga
University and Gonzaga Athletics. To request a Spike appearance at your
event, complete the mascot request form below. Please note that
requests MUST be received at least 2 weeks prior to your event to be
considered. Completion of the form does not guarantee that the request
will be fulfilled. Questions? Contact Whitney at hughes@athletics.gonzaga.edu or (509) 313-4073.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
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Who may use the costume? Any group affiliated with Gonzaga University, or holding an event related to Gonzaga University.
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How may the costume be used? The mascot may appear at any non-commercial event as a visual identification and ambassador for Gonzaga University and the athletic department. Please direct all commercial use questions to the Gonzaga Athletics Director of Marketing.
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Who may wear the costume? The costume fits most average-size people from 5'5" to 5'10." Policy requires the "talent" (the person who wears the costume) be age 16 or older.
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Does the mascot talk? No, the mascot is a non-speaking character. The best "talent" choice would be a lively person who likes people and is able to communicate nonverbally through friendly gestures and body language.
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How long should the costume be worn at any one time? The costume designers recommend a maximum of 20 minutes. If performing outside, especially during hot weather, breaks may be taken more frequently. The costume will become extremely hot, so it is important for the talent to take frequent water breaks.
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What else should I know? For safety reasons the mascot must be accompanied at all times by a handler.
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How do I reserve the costume? Reservation requests may be submitted either via email, postal mail, or fax by completing the mascot appearance request form and submitting it to the Gonzaga Athletics Marketing Department. Requests must be received at least 2 weeks prior to the event to be considered.
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How long may I keep the costume? The costume may be picked up the first working day before the event and must be returned by noon the first working day after the event. Failure to return the costume in a timely manner may result in the loss of future borrowing privileges.
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Who is responsible for picking up and returning the costume to Gonzaga Athletics at McCarthey Athletic Center? The borrower is expected to arrange pick-up of the costume from McCarthey Athletic Center and to arrange return of the costume to the McCarthey Athletic Center by noon of the first working day after the event.
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How big is the container? The costume is carried in a large athletic duffle bag with a shoulder strap. It should fit comfortably in a standard car trunk or back seat.
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What if the costume needs cleaning or repairs? Cleaning or repairs should NOT be attempted by anyone other than Gonzaga Athletics.
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Who pays for repairs? Gonzaga Athletics will absorb costs for routine cleaning and repairs. However, in the event of serious damage, soiling, or lost costume parts, the borrower will be charged for the repair, cleaning, or replacement of lost parts.
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How much does it cost to borrow the mascot costume? The Spike the Bulldog costume may be borrowed free of charge; however, the costume is only lent out if the Gonzaga Athletic Department is unable to provide a mascot for the event.
