The world of collegiate mascots is a competitive arena, and Brutus Buckeye, Ohio State's iconic mascot, is at the heart of it. This article delves into the life of Brutus, the team behind the costume, and the journey to becoming one of the most recognizable mascots in college sports. The story begins with Jeff Moody, a senior at Ohio State, who, during a game against Michigan, performed a daring act that would forever etch his name into Brutus' legacy. While the world saw Brutus, the cartoony eyes and rugby-striped shirt, few knew it was Moody who brought the character to life.
The Brutus Buckeye team is a small but dedicated group of nine student athletes who take on the role of portraying Brutus each year. They are athletes, improv experts, court jesters, volunteers, and academics, attending hundreds of events annually. The team's ambitions go beyond cheerleading; they strive for excellence in the UCA & UDA College Cheerleading and Dance Team National Championship, a highly competitive arena. The current season marks a turning point for Brutus, who hadn't won the title since 2019, and the team is determined to reclaim their glory.
The article explores the rigorous process of becoming a Brutus, starting with tryouts. The team holds info sessions and costume sessions to prepare students for the audition, which involves demonstrating physical skills, feature awareness, emotions, and signature moves. The auditionees are then tested on their improv skills, creativity, and ability to use props in skits. The final stage is a four-minute skit to music, showcasing the auditionees' X-factor. The selection process is meticulous, with the team bringing on both front-runners due to their exceptional skills.
The Brutus team's history is a testament to the evolution of collegiate mascots. Initially, there was no formal structure, with Brutus being adopted by various student organizations. Over time, the team grew, and the need for a dedicated coach became apparent. Ray Sharp, the current head mascot coach, joined the team in 2010 and transformed it into a competitive force. The team now has a full-time coach, a dedicated athletic program, and a scholarship for team members, ensuring Brutus remains a student and a symbol of Ohio State pride.
