Jeff Kemperman knows what school spirit is all about. For the past three years he's been Grand Valley State University's biggest¿literally¿cheerleader, as the oversized mascot Louie the Laker.
Kemperman has also had ongoing stints as the mascots for the Grand Rapids Arena Football team, the Rampage, and the IHL Grand Rapids Griffins. Now, the political science graduate from Naperville, Ill, has set his sights on the Michigan State University, where he starts graduate school this fall, and the school's Sparty character.
Being a mascot is like being an instant celebrity,' Kemperman says of the transformation that takes place when he dons the ensemble. When you're in the costume, you can go wherever you want and do whatever you want. It is very liberating.
In his role as Louie, Kemperman fired up fans at GVSU football, basketball, swimming, and volleyball games by leading cheers and pulling pranks.
He was so good at the job that he was chosen as the fifth best university mascot in the nation this spring, in a competition held by the Universal Cheerleaders Association.
That recognition, along with his experience, give Kemperman confidence as he pursues the Sparty gig.
MSU employs six Sparty mascots to cover public appearances and sporting events.
At tryouts earlier this year, Kemperman could not audition because he was still considered a GVSU student. He is in touch with MSU and will find out at the end of August whether or not he'll get a shot.
Most of a mascot's time is spent walking around, interacting with kids, and being funny and creative, says Kemperman.
It's like I am having a good time on the inside of the costume and everyone is laughing on the outside, explains Kemperman.
If you are a good mascot your personality really shines through, says Kemperman. You can really serve as a positive role model for kids.
