by Karyn Maier, Managing Editor

Phillie Phanatic, Harvey the Hound, and the San Diego Chicken. What do these whacky sounding characters have in common? No, they’re not characters from a children’s book or movie, although kids love them. They’re all famous team mascots.

When fans aren’t cheering on the action on the court or field, they can sit back and relax with a hot dog and soda and be entertained by the lovable team mascot, whether it be a guy in a giant chicken suit (San Diego Padres) or a pair of racing sausages (Milwaukee Brewers).

But, how exactly does one go about creating such a memorable icon for their team? We have some advice on the do’s and don’ts of casting this important role.

Convey your image. Try to choose an animal that captures the unfaltering and fearless spirit of your team’s school or sponsoring organization. Lions, tigers and bears are popular choices with broad appeal, while sharks and wolves represent a predatory nature.

Appeal to the human side of your audience. Would you prefer that a two-legged mascot represent your team? Select a powerful authority figure, such as a king or a wizard.

Think locale. Consider adopting a mascot that depicts the uniqueness of your particular region. For example, the New England Patriots is represented by the colonial, Pat Patriot.

Follow history’s example. Some teams have mascots that reflect historical figures, such as a gladiator or Spartan.

You can’t go wrong with cute. Who could resist cheering alongside a cuddly puppy or rascally rabbit?

What Not to Do When Choosing a Team Mascot

Beware of negative messages. Avoid choosing a mascot that may offend certain members of your community. For instance, Native American characters are often considered to be politically incorrect. Likewise, a confederate soldier mascot may be construed as favoring ra cism.

Keep your climate in mind when choosing a mascot. If your team is based in sunny Florida, where temperatures can run high during the playing season, expecting some poor soul to race up and down the sidelines in a heavy bear costume is unfair, if not a health hazard.

We want to hear from you...

Does your team already have a mascot? Are you thinking of adopting a mascot for the first time? Be sure to take our poll this week and tell us!