If You Want to Be a Badger
April 18, 2006 | General News
The light of the moon didn't help 19 participants trying out to be Bucky Badger Monday night at the UW Field House. Rather, these undergrads used creativity, fast thinking, humor and dance moves to show the judges that they had what it takes to don the mantle of the Badger.
'The ideal candidate is someone who is outgoing, fun, reliable, dependent and very organized,' spirit squad director Josette Scheer said. 'A lot of them grow up in Wisconsin, are familiar with Bucky and have been a fan all their lives.'
All the candidates also must be full-time students at the University of Wisconsin for the entire 2006-07 school year and carry a minimum GPA of 2.0. Bucky performs at approximately 500 events each year on top of making appearances at UW sporting events, so there also is a big time commitment.
The contestants spent two hours going from station to station in what seemed like a gauntlet of physical and mental challenges. In one, they wear the Bucky suit and act out (no talking allowed!) a three-minute scene that is read to them. Points are awarded based on body language, expression with motions, energy and originality, among other skills.
Rhythm also is tested. Each contestant dances to a one-minute medley of music that can include a school song, country, rap, pop and techno. Overall rhythm, moves consistent with the theme of the music and expressiveness are some of the traits sought after (who wants to watch a Bucky that can't dance').
Judges also observed for one minute each candidate use an assortment of props (not using the props for their intended purpose was the key), and looked for creativity, humor and spontaneity. The props this year included things like hula hoops, umbrellas, a sled, a coat hanger, safety goggles and pom pons.
Finally, there was a physical station in which strength and endurance were tested in the form of push-ups and ability to do an elevator (a Bucky pyramid). One candidate did a whopping 111 push-ups!
Believe it or not, even current Bucky Badgers have to try out again if they have less than two years' experience. The 'tenured' Buckys not only get to avoid trying out, but they actually serve as judges.
'These (contestants) seem nervous, just like I was when I was in their shoes,' former Bucky Badger Troy Maragos, who will graduate this May, said. 'But I won't comfort them. Pressure is good.'
Other judges were members of the athletic department, including dance team coach Amy Johnson, who said it was helpful to have people from within act as judges since they work with each other all year round.
After tallying up scores, 12 finalists were chosen. On Wednesday at the Kohl Center, they will perform a two-minute skit that they create themselves and perform in front of the judges. They also will have an interview worth 60 percent of the final score.
Only six or seven Bucky Badgers will be selected. Results of the final tryout will be announced Thursday morning.
