The Beach Pride Center in the basement of the University Student Union used to be the place where students could find their beloved Cal State Long Beach mascot, but Prospector Pete and his team of spirit-pumpers have made the athletics department their new home.
Prospector Pete and the spirit teams, including the band, cheer squad and dance team, are known for instilling black and gold pride on campus and at athletic events. Now, they are managed by the same department they cheer on.
“I’m excited about [having the spirit teams in the athletics department],” said Roger Kirk, associate director for media relations in the athletics department. “They are a great part of the atmosphere and ambiance and I am excited to have them as a part of the team.”
According to Christina Esparza, Associated Students Inc. communications coordinator, ASI, athletics and others began to discuss what made the most sense as to where the spirit teams should be managed.
Nation-wide, spirit teams are managed by athletics and that is what initiated the move, which took place at the beginning of the athletic season in August. The move has been in the works for the past two or three years.
“Throughout the years, ASI has served as a liaison between athletics and the spirit teams,” Esparza said. “In agreeing to relocate the spirit teams, [we are agreeing] to enhance communication, maximize efficiency and provide more opportunities for spirit members within the athletic department.”
The athletics department is making an effort to incorporate the spirit teams as regulars at every event, including games and matches that are not hosted on campus, according to Kirk.
The upcoming Homecoming season and post-season events like basketball’s Big West conference are among the games and matches Kirk plans to have Prospector Pete attend.
“He’s the mascot — he should be supporting all athletics events,” said Aireon Harris, sophomore pre-nursing major. “I think it’s great that they are managed by athletics now.”
For more information on Prospector Pete or the athletics department, visit their website at csulb.edu/athletics.
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