Lancaster High School is one of three schools across the United States chosen by The New York Times for Kids for having a unique school mascot. NYT contributing writer Tim O’Shei said he was researching when he had come across a Gusto story on (Eye of the Gale) that prompted him to reach out to Lancaster High School. O’Shei said that one of the most interesting aspects of the school mascot is the student underneath the costume, sophomore Mackenzie Barnes who has also been an athlete in her school career.
“I thought it was interesting that she’s been a football player, a cheerleader, and now a mascot, and from what I understand, only a limited number of people actually knew (until now) that she’s Gusto,” said O’Shei.
Barnes said that she was shadowed by New York Times photographer, Brian Kaiser for the news article that appeared on the New York Times website and on its special Instagram page for kids. Kaiser photographed Barnes at her home, school, on the bus traveling to the varsity football game at Olentangy, and the game.
“I was super excited but also super nervous not knowing what to expect or how it would go. It was a bit awkward at first getting the pictures done because I wasn’t used to someone following my every move but near the end it wasn’t as bad. It was fun to laugh with the girls about it,” she said.
O’Shei has written about pro sports mascots over the years and he was curious to hear stories from teenagers who perform as mascots for their high schools.
“I’m a contributing writer to New York Times for Kids, which means I have the opportunity to pitch stories ideas that I think will be interesting for kids and teenagers. Mascots seemed like a natural fit: They make everyone smile and laugh, but the job itself is hard. It’s hot inside those costumes. It’s difficult to see, and it’s physically restrictive — all of which means you have to be both adventurous and talented to do it well. I’ve written about pro sports mascots over the years and have a sense of the job from them, and I was curious to hear stories from teens who perform as mascots. If I’m curious about something, I figure readers will be too, and so I pitched the idea of writing about teens who play mascots,” he said.
Barnes reiterated that it is difficult to wear the cumbersome Gusto costume and maneuver in it at events. Trying to wave, jump, cheer, dance, and give high fives or fist pumps to sports fans is challenging. Still, she relishes those moments.
“Gusto can sometimes be a bit awkward. The suit is very hot and uncomfortable to walk in and move around in. But getting to go to events is an amazing experience and I feel like I always learn something new! Out of all the events the ones with the kids are the best,” said Barnes.
Barnes explained that putting on the Gusto costume is no easy task.
“I start by putting on the pants, the shoes, slide Gusto on and then put the gloves on. I normally get ready in the cheer closet down at the field, but when I don’t, I use the back of my mom’s car,” said Barnes.
Portraying the school mascot is something Barnes said she will always be proud of and remember.
“This experience means a lot to me. It is nice seeing all the different people and their reactions to Gusto and not knowing it could make their whole day. It is nice to see the joy in their faces and secretly know it is me in the suit making it happen for them,” said Barnes.
One of the events that Barnes attended as Gusto was an alumni class reunion.
“I went to the class of 1974s 50th year class reunion. They were so happy to see Gusto. It was so nice getting to hear about how the school colors have changed and how high school used to be for them. They sent me a card thanking Gusto a few days later to say they loved having Gusto there.”
