Big John was one of few to be named an All-American mascot at the UCA summer camp. He placed first in skit and field work for the three days he attended the camp, received the spirit stick for two out of three days, and also won the H2O award for never giving up and always putting forth best effort. Being named an All-American mascot allowed Big John to be invited to the pregame show at the Citrus Bowl in Orlando, Florida.

Being the nation’s seventh-longest running postseason bowl, the Buffalo Wild Wings Citrus Bowl trademarks some significant games in college football. This years game on New Years Eve will be the 71st game to be hosted at the bowl.

Big John hopes to represent the Farmer’s long maroon line with grace, pride and excellence. However, he needs the community’s help to get him there. With the cost of travel for not only Big John, but his manager and chaperone as well, the price of the trip quickly accumulates. Room, board and participation are factored in along with gas and food allowance.

“[The community] can help by promoting the GoFundMe account, as every little bit helps,” StuCo adviser Allison Stamey said.

The account was made by Big John’s mom, Michelle Brown, with the intent of reaching the goal to get Big John to the Citrus Bowl. A company has willingly offered to provide a nine-passenger van to transport attendees and costumes. With the help of private donations or company sponsorships, they hope to reach the goal of $4,500. Funds are needed by Oct. 30 to be paid to UCA by Nov. 4.

Big John will be performing during the pregame show alongside other All-American mascots from throughout the nation. The event is expecting somewhere between 20 to 30 mascots.

“What I’m looking forward to most is just how many other mascots, like me, there are all over the country in one area,” Big John said.

With this being the first year Big John has ever been named an All-American mascot and invited to the Citrus Bowl, the community’s pride could not be bigger.

“Big John will have the honor of bringing notoriety, positive attention, pride and accomplishment to LHS, the district, DFW and the state in an arena where only the best of the best are represented,” Brown said. “The school will be recognized as the top rated, outstanding school we are, as well as its students will be characterized as exceptional and hardworking.”