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Georgia Tech’s Buzz wins best mascot at the NCA and NDA championship

Buzz shook his stinger all the way to No. 1

Facts about GT's Buzz.The first reference to Tech students as “Yellow Jackets” appeared in the Atlanta Constitution in 1905.There have been two creations of the real life mascot as we know him today.The students who are Buzz keep their identities secret until graduation.The first creation was in 1972 by a woman named Judi McNair who made the first costume by hand and performed at home football games.In 1979, a student by the name of Richie Bland spent $1,400 on a costume that looked like a Yellow jacket. In 1980, the costumed YellowJacket had been given the name "Buzz Bee" and was given title as an "official mascot of Georgia Tech"
By Ebony Williams
April 12, 2023

Georgia Tech’s mascot Buzz was a big winner at this year’s NCA and NDA Collegiate National Cheer and Dance Championship.

In the best mascot category, Tech’s mascot brought the house down with a routine that earned a score of 53.7 out of 60.

ExploreChick-fil-A awards twin Georgia Tech students with $50k in scholarships

“Confirmation of what we already knew, our mascot is the best in the buzzness,” Georgia Tech wrote in an Instagram post celebrating Buzz’ big win.

The first human Buzz mascot, created by Judy McNair, made its debut in 1972. The mascot costumes were handmade until 1980, when the president of the Ramblin’ Wreck Club, Mark Loch, got approval for funding for a new custom.

While Buzz has great dance moves, the mascot might also want to consider a career in comedy. In an April Fools prank, Buzz announced on Instagram that he was leaving Georgia Tech.

About the Author

Ebony Williams is a writer, indie producer and director, and journalist for a variety of magazine outlets. Her career has led her to create content for entertainment, sports, lifestyle, local breaking news and more.

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