USA Water Polo Shieldy Mascot Performer (Seasonal, Part-Time)
Location: Southern California (event-based location)
Dates: June – August 2026
Type: Part-Time / Seasonal
About the Role:
USA Water Polo is seeking energetic, outgoing individuals to bring our official mascot, Shieldy, to life during the 2026 summer event season. This role plays a key part in creating a memorable, high-energy fan experience at our largest events, including Junior Olympics.
If you thrive in front of a crowd, enjoy engaging with athletes and families, and can embody the spirit of the sport, this is a unique opportunity to represent one of the fastest-growing Olympic sports in the U.S.
Compensation:
- Opportunity to be part of premier national events and gain experience in sports marketing and live event activation
Why This Role?
This is more than just a mascot role, it’s an opportunity to help shape the fan experience for thousands of athletes and families while representing the energy and identity of USA Water Polo on a national stage.
Key Responsibilities:
- Perform as Shieldy, the official USA Water Polo mascot, at designated events and activations
- Engage with athletes, families, and fans in a fun, professional, and brand-appropriate manner
- Participate in on-deck entertainment, fan activations, and photo opportunities
- Collaborate with marketing team to enhance the overall event atmosphere
- Maintain high energy and character integrity throughout all appearances
- A Mascot Crew member may either be the Mascot or the handler, and team members should be ready and able to perform in either capacity
Qualifications:
- Strong interpersonal skills and a strong ability to engage with crowds
- Comfortable performing in a mascot costume for extended periods (including outdoor summer conditions)
- Physically capable of standing, walking, and moving for long durations, in costume
- Reliable, punctual, and professional
- Prior mascot, performance, or event experience preferred but not required
- Valid driver’s license and reliable personal transportation required; ability to travel independently between multiple event venues/pools
- Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
Schedule & Commitment:
- Primarily weekends with select weekday events
- Peak involvement during Junior Olympics (July)
- Flexible scheduling based on event calendar
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.
