The Notre Dame Fighting Irish are an iconic college football team with a deep and rich history. Their connection to Ireland is reflected in the school’s branding, including its well-known logo and mascot, which are recognized worldwide.
The origins of the famous Notre Dame mascot can be traced back to the school’s early days. The students who portray this prominent figure play a significant role in representing the university’s spirit and tradition.
Who Is the Notre Dame Fighting Irish Mascot?
Notre Dame’s current mascot is a leprechaun, which aligns with the school’s Irish theme. The leprechaun has been the official mascot of the Fighting Irish since 1965, and the logo features a side view of a traditional Irish leprechaun in a fighting stance.
In addition to the mascot logo, Notre Dame also has a “live” leprechaun who attends games and stands on the sidelines. A student is selected to wear the mascot uniform, which is traditionally green, and they interact with the crowd while serving as the team’s main cheerleader.
The mascot also carries a wooden walking stick known as a shillelagh, a symbol of Irish folklore believed to bring magic and good luck to Notre Dame games. The lucky mascot attends all Notre Dame games in South Bend and, on the road, is a central figure in the football team’s identity.
The Fighting Irish have not always had a leprechaun as their mascot. Before the leprechaun, an Irish terrier dog held down that role. Various dogs have taken on the name “Clashmore Mike” over the decades, the first being Brick Top Shuan-Rhu, who a Cleveland native donated in November 1930.
The last Clashmore Mike was seen in 1963, appearing on the cover of the 1963 Notre Dame Football Dope Book alongside Hugh Devore.
What Is the Notre Dame Mascot’s Name?
In 2024, the current mascots are McKenna Englhardt, Colin Mahoney, Kylee Kazenski, and Ryan Coury. They are the latest students to represent the school in this historic role, following in the footsteps of 67 previous mascots.
Tryouts are held on campus each spring, and a comprehensive selection process is initiated to find the next mascot. The auditions take place for a month, during which finalists are narrowed down through a series of challenges, including written applications and open clinics.
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In the final round, students must demonstrate their skills through an extensive interview, a mock pep rally, and a school history quiz. They must also complete physical challenges, such as the famous mascot dance and push-ups.
More than one winner is selected, and several students are chosen to serve as mascots for different sports teams.
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