Indiana University Athletics
Hoosier the Bison Tryout Information
The Bison never runs from the storm, he remains Never Daunted. Are you?
Do you have what it takes to be The Bison? It’s a big commitment, but one that’s incredibly fulfilling and a unique student role among all student endeavors at IU. Bison performers literally breathe life and personality into IU’s official mascot and personify the deep passion all members of Hoosier Nation have for Indiana University. On the field, on the court, on stage or during public appearances throughout Indiana and elsewhere, you are the epicenter of Hoosier Spirit! Even though your identity is secret, you are the “face” of Hoosier the Bison and what it represents – passion, strength, and IU’s enduring tradition of excellence!
Tryouts to be Hoosier the Bison occur in the Spring for the following season. Email William Kirby at wjkirby@iu.edu if you have any interest or questions about the program.
Job Responsibilities
- Wear a mascot costume including head, torso, arms, legs, hands, and feet. (costume fits individuals between 5’9” and 6’2” and costume weighs up to 20 pounds)
- High Energy Performance: Have high energy to provide maximum enjoyment to fans as Hoosier the Bison
- Mascot Integrity: Preserve the integrity of the mascot, including mannerisms, body language, attitude, and Indiana University representation at all times.
- Team Collaboration: Work well in a team environment.
- Costume and Prop Care: Take care of the costume and props when in your possession.
- Maintain character integrity by always staying in character, including non-verbal communication only: In situations where the performer needs assistance from mascot handlers, certain signals will be used to portray what is needed.
- Mascot Handlers: During gamedays and public appearances, mascot handlers will assist the Bison Mascot in gameday activations, following the marketing script, and fan interactions.
Applicants must comply with the following guidelines if they wish to put on the horns.
- Be an enrolled, full-time undergraduate student (minimum of 12 credits) in good standing at Indiana University.
- Excellent physical stamina and endurance to perform in a Mascot costume for extended periods, often in varying weather conditions: Athletic Training will be available to all performers to improve physique.
- Be able to fit comfortably in the suit.
- Successfully pass the University Criminal Background Check Authorization and Consent Form.
- Successfully pass the Indiana University Driver Certification Form or out-of-state driver records.
- Completion of a Criminal Background Check.
- A completed Driver Record Form.
- A copy of your driver's license
- A copy of the front and back of your Indiana University Crimson Card
- Maintain a 2.8 or higher cumulative grade point average.
- Have a flexible schedule year-round.
- Commit to at least 20 hours a week for team and appearance commitments
- Strong non-verbal communication skills, including the ability to convey emotions and enthusiasm through physical gestures and expressions: Performers should understand the Bison’s character and personality traits when stepping into the costume to stay consistent with other performers and expectations.
- A friendly and engaging personality, with the ability to interact positively with fans and represent IU Athletics professionally: Executing meet and greets, public appearances, and personal interactions are vital to the program’s success.
- Comfortable performing in a confined costume with limited visibility and mobility, adapting to different performance environments and situations.
- Prioritize safety, following safety protocols, and ensuring the well-being of both the performer and fans: The Head Coach will guide performers on how to protect themselves and others while in the costume. Mascot handlers will assist in execution of these provisions.
- Flexibility in work hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, to accommodate the organization’s event schedule: The Mascot Head Coach and Program Coordinator will work to implement a strategic scheduling structure to work around the performer’s work/school schedule.
Application Requirements
- Complete the application form.
- Submit a two-minute video via email to William Kirby at wjkirby@iu.edu that describes yourself, why you want to be Hoosier the Bison, and any relevant background experience that pertains to performing in front of crowds and/or athletic ability.
- A signed copy of the Bison Mascot Program Confidentiality Statement.
The above forms and applications can be submitted by:
- Emailing documents to William Kirby, wjkirby@iu.edu
- Mail documents to William Kirby, Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall, 1001 E 17th Street, Bloomington, IN 47408