For the 11th time, Aubie the Tiger has won the national championship for collegiate mascots, beating 10 other Division IA schools at the 2024 Universal Cheerleading Association National Championships.
The mascot competition, which took place on Jan. 13, is comprised of two integral parts — a pre-submitted video component, accounting for half of the total score, and a live 90-second skit performed during nationals.
Aubie’s entry video featured a compilation of clips captured over the past year, highlighting various aspects such as game situations, community service, cheerleading, band performances, dance routines, campus activities and crowd involvement. Based on Aubie’s compelling video submission, he entered nationals and placed in second, setting the stage for an epic showdown.
During the championships, all 11 mascots showcased their skits, each competing for the coveted title. Aubie’s performance, titled "Aubie’s Great Escape Room," captivated the audience and judges as he skillfully navigated through an array of challenges, employing audio cues and props to enhance the experience.
Aubie’s performance propelled him to victory, securing a score of 92.64, beating Smokey from the University of Tennessee by 0.18 points.
Notably, Aubie placed higher than his previous performance in nationals last year, where he secured third place with a score of 88.1. Aubie last won the competition in 2021.
Aubie took to his social media platforms to express his gratitude, stating he was "humbled and honored" to win the competition.
For 45 years, Aubie has symbolized the spirit of Auburn University, endearing himself to generations of students and fans alike. Leading up to nationals, numerous Auburn students and fans conveyed their well-wishes to Aubie through various social media platforms.
Reflecting on the widespread attention garnered by the competition, Riley Ferguson, senior in marketing and Aubie's scheduling director, described the attention toward the competition as "crazy."
Aubie’s triumph reflects the collaborative efforts of his dedicated team of directors, who tirelessly support him in all endeavors, particularly in preparation for nationals.
“It is a lot of fun being a director. It is a lot of hard work, but it is worth it," said Jennifer Jordan, junior in nutrition dietetics and director of outreach for Aubie.
Throughout the year, Aubie’s directors diligently prepared for nationals, crafting videos, brainstorming skit concepts and creating props to enhance Aubie’s performances.
“My favorite part of working with Aubie is seeing the joy that he brings to the community. No day is a bad day if Aubie is around," Ferguson said. "Being able to see the one kid who is either shy, or sad, or upset, and Aubie comes in and the whole world lights up for them."
Jordan said working with Aubie has been a rewarding experience, and she loves to see the "magic" that Aubie can bring to people’s lives.
Aubie's popularity among the Auburn Family has long been known, but this win further cements his legacy as a national collegiate icon. Until next year, Aubie's record-breaking status remains secure.
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