Zian Mahfuz – Mustangs Ahead
(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL) – Klumpy, the LRHS mascot, has been cheering with fellow Mustangs since the school first opened in 1998.
The identity of Klumpy has traditionally been unknown to Mustangs, even though the person behind the suit is a fellow student. Only a handful of people know who the real Klumpy is.
To become Klumpy, there is an application to fill out. If there are many applicants, then auditions are held. The current Klumpy always wanted to be the school mascot for their four high school years but was too nervous to do it. Klumpy took the chance when no else did last year.
There are no requirements to be Klumpy other than having fun with the audience.
Klumpy has yet to attend a football game this year, but has attended various other events such as Open House, Back to School night, and has also spent time with the Mini Mustangs. Playing with the kids is Klumpy’s favorite part of the job.
Klumpy said that wearing the suit is hard because it’s difficult to see through the mask, causing potential accidents. Klumpy is also restricted to only a few moves or the head will fall off.
The hard part of the job is taking care of the suit and frequently washing it so it doesn’t get “smelly.”
This year’s Klumpy hopes to work with the LRHS cheer or dance team for one of the games where they’ll make up a routine together.
Most recently, Klumpy co-hosted the Lakewood’s Got Talent show.
Klumpy said the anonymity is one of the best parts of the act.
“They get excited when they see Klumpy but don’t get excited when they see me. It’s a fun experience that everyone says ‘hey’ to Klumpy and gives high fives, but they don’t even notice me in the halls.
“It’s funny to hear people guess who Klumpy is when I know it’s me.” Letting it be a mystery is what makes it fun.
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