ASU Spirit Character "RED"
“Red,” the spirit character for ASU’s athletic programs, was introduced to the public during two press conferences—one in
The red and black-haired costumed character greeted fans, children, and members of the media at a conference Wednesday morning at the ASU Football Complex, then traveled to the First Tee in
“Red absolutely will not replace
Instead, the spirit character is designed to function independently of the Family as an entertaining figure during men’s and women’s athletic events.
“The Indian Family maintains a stately and dignified persona befitting the Indian tribes which once lived in this area as the official mascot of
“But, we still wanted to look at something that would improve the experience of our fans, something that would enhance the atmosphere and entertainment of our events. We needed something that would allow us to have a stronger attraction to a major target we’re after and that’s children and youth. And, we wanted to have something that would have more interaction and involvement with the crowd and exciting our fans.”
Lee also said that throughout the various stages of the spirit character’s development through artists’ renderings, ASU officials presented the updates to the advisory committee and university personnel for feedback from the youth market groups. “Red” is the brainchild of ASU Director of Athletic Marketing Andrea Scott who personally designed the figure.
“The spirit character began as a project to design a character that looks friendly, is unique, and is not an animal,” said Scott. “I was looking for something out of the ordinary that’s presence could elevate spirit at ball games.”
Scott sent her design to Olympic Flag and Banner Inc. who made the costume utilizing ASU’s school colors of scarlet and black and will be worn primarily by a student. Lee said the selection process will be similar to that of other spirit organizations with interviews, tryouts, and auditions.
“Red was named because that was how he was perceived by the marketing analysis and research groups, which were children and youth,” said Lee. “This will be a very visible part of ASU Athletics. Our aim is for this character to be very visible so when seen by a television audience or in the newspaper, he becomes a symbol associated with ASU.
“And the opportunities are endless. They are only limited to the abilities of the person inside the costume,” said Lee.
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If you are interested in trying out for Red please fill out the application. If you have questions please contact Andrea Scott at 870-972-3930 or by email at aball@astate.edu
