The Notre Dame Fighting Irish, representing the University of Notre Dame, boasts one of the most storied traditions in collegiate athletics, particularly in football. Since the Notre Dame Fighting Irish football program's inception in 1887, they have won 11 national championships and produced 7 Heisman Trophy winners, including Angelo Bertelli, Johnny Lujack, Tim Brown, and more. The team has also had numerous players inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. Notre Dame plays its home games at the Notre Dame Stadium, a venue with a seating capacity of 77,622. The stadium, known for its iconic Touchdown Jesus mural visible from the stands, has hosted countless memorable moments.
The Fighting Irish football has an impressive all-time win percentage of .730, according to the official website of the NCAA. Beyond football, Notre Dame's athletic teams have also excelled in other sports, contributing to their 30 NCAA team championships across various sports.
Who is the Notre Dame Fighting Irish mascot?
The mascot of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish is The Leprechaun. The costumed character represents a mischievous, bearded leprechaun dressed in a green suit, hat, and bow tie. Its energetic antics and fighting spirit symbolize the tenacity and luck associated with Irish folklore.
The Notre Dame Leprechaun history
The Notre Dame Leprechaun has a rich history that dates back to the early 1960s. Before the Leprechaun, Notre Dame's football team was represented by a series of Irish Terrier dogs, starting with Brick Top Shuan-Rhu in 1930. These dogs were collectively known as Clashmore Mike.
In 1960, the cheerleaders introduced a leprechaun character to their routines, and by 1964, sports artist Theodore W. Drake designed the official Leprechaun mascot for $50. The Leprechaun was officially named the mascot in 1965 and has since become an integral part of Notre Dame's athletic culture. It is usually a student dressed in a green suit and Irish country hat, brandishing a shillelagh and leading cheers at games. The mascot is believed to bring good luck and magical powers to the team. The Leprechaun also participates in pep rallies, tailgates, and community service events, making appearances both on and off campus.
In 2023, the university featured its first female Leprachaun. Senior Kylee Kazenski became the first woman to portray the mascot during Notre Dame's game against the Pittsburgh Panthers.
The Notre Dame Leprechaun tryouts
The tryout process for becoming the Notre Dame Leprechaun is quite competitive. Here's an overview of what it entails:
Application Submission: Interested students must submit a detailed application, which includes two tryout forms, five short essays, a one-page personal statement, a one to two-minute audition video, and a general resume with background information.
Preliminary Selection: The initial pool of applicants is narrowed down to between seven to ten finalists based on their written applications.
In-Person Tryouts: The finalists are invited to participate in tryouts, which take place over two to three days. This includes:
Game Day Experience: Each finalist portrays the mascot at an athletic event to experience in-game fan engagement.
Pep Rally Performance: Each finalist performs a four-minute pep rally, showcasing their cheerleading and crowd-leading skills.
Improv Scene: Participants engage in a two-minute improv scene, and are often given unique scenarios just minutes before performing.
Interview: A formal interview with a panel of coaches, former Leprechauns, and staff from the athletics department.
Final Selection: The panel evaluates the performances and selects the top candidates. If needed, a tie-breaking round may take place during the Blue and Gold spring football game.
Announcement: The final four Leprechauns for the year are announced after the tryouts.
FAQs on Notre Dame Fighting Irish Mascot
A. The Leprechaun became the official mascot in 1965.
A. Before the Leprechaun, the Fighting Irish were represented by a series of Irish Terrier dogs named Clashmore Mike.
A. The Leprechaun wears a green suit, and a green hat, and wields a shillelagh (a traditional Irish wooden stick).
A. Yes, typically there are four Leprechauns selected each year to share the duties of representing the university.
