Best of 2006: The Gameops.com Review

Our annual review of all things operations and entertainment was done by polling a dozen of our most trusted non-biased industry pros.

Of course in an industry so spread out and diverse it impossible to find a large group of people who have see it all, but effort was made to find people who have seen a lot.

We also took note of stories and reviews from web sources and industry literature. Six categories have been selected.

Our selections are in:

Best Mascot:
The mascot whose work was creative and enthusiastic, serving as a valuable tool for their team and in their community. All sports team characters and college mascots are eligible.

 

Winner: The Raptor (Toronto NBA)

If you want to see a creative, energetic and passionate mascot you are looking for the Raptor. Toronto's NBA mascots also brings more variety than anyone in the mascot business. As many struggling franchises find, having a reliably entertaining and popular mascot can help soothe the pain of a team that may not be as dependable.

Honorable Mention:

 

• Steagle Cobeagle the American Eagle - Saginaw Spirit

The Saginaw Spirit introduced a new mascot this season, which may have generated more media buzz than anyone since the Famous Chicken's relaunch. Steagle Cobeagle the American Eagle, the fledgling bird for the OHL team stumbled over carpeting and tripped over the goal in his hyped debut... showing nerves, ineptitude or a well crafted new-born character. Either way, the eagle soared into the hearts of millions of fans....many who have no idea where Saginaw is located.

• Raymond - Tampa Bay Devil Rays (MLB)

Raymond in Tampa Bay is a long time mascot performer who has continually improved their show and has developed new tools to connect off the field with fans like the character blog. Raymond is also very active posting YouTube clips, which have value for fans, as well as other mascots.

Related Links:

Best of 2003: The Gameops.com Review
Best of 2010: The Gameops.com Review
National Anthem
Best of 2004: The Gameops.com Review
Best of Awards
Journal Notebooks