Mascot Hall Of Fame Closing Its Doors

My relationship and appreciation for mascots has drastically changed in the last few years. The reason? My niece spent two years of her college life as one of the mascots for my alma mater, Baylor University. Until she did this, I had NO IDEA what these people in the costumes go through. They are legit athletes themselves. First, each mascot is not just one person, but a team of people working in unison throughout the game to make sure the energy and experience for the fans remains at a high level. Second, they train year-round, again, just like the athletes they're cheering for. Finally, some of these mascots have become as iconic as the teams they represent. As such they are more than worthy of having a mascot hall of fame. And now, their hall is closing its doors forever. History Of The Mascot Hall Of Fame Ironically, the origin of The Mascot Hall of Fame does not have anything to do with a brick-and-mortar facility. It was founded by David Raymond as an online-only concept with annual nominations and inductions. The actual, three-story building opened in Whiting, Indiana on December 26, 2018. From college to pro, every mascot who has made impact is seemingly represented there. https://youtu.be/rZOelrf6QbQ The Mascot Hall Of Fame Having A Grand "Furnale" Now, it's all coming to an end as far as the physical facility is concerned. Museum officials are proud of all they've done over the years. Their going away Instagram post quoted by WISH-TV, “We have made quite a family in the 5+ years since we opened our doors. We have had the pleasure of sharing in hundreds of your special days and birthdays. We’ve had thousands and thousands of students visit for field trips. We’ve been able to fill gaps in the community with free and reduced programs, food banks, blood drives, backpack giveaways, sensory days, reading programs, and so much more. It has been an honor.” https://www.instagram.com/p/C9vFjjHRwVY/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link The museum will have its grand finale, er-"furnale" on September 14. However, the concept of the Mascot Hall of Fame will NOT be ending. It will return to its roots as an online entity.