Over the years, a select group of Spartans has stepped into Sparty’s legendary boots, uniting the MSU community with pride and tradition. Below is a list of those honored to embody Sparty and keep the Spartan spirit alive.
Hometown: Mattawan, MI
Major: Economics
Years on Squad: 2021–2024
Favorite Sparty Memories: Sweet 16 in 2023 at Madison Square Garden! That was my first time in New York and it was very surreal. I could not believe I was on the stage, representing MSU and cheering on our basketball team. I was super excited and a little nervous. And I was starstruck when I saw Carmelo Anthony in the backrooms.
Hometown: Grand Blanc, MI
Major: Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Years on Squad: 2019–2023
Favorite Sparty Memories: Being in Madison Square Garden was awesome. Also, I enjoyed the big win against Marquette in March Madness and running alongside all the kids during the Izzo 5K.
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Major: Advertising Management
Years on Squad: 2018–2022
Favorite Sparty Memories: MSU drumline asked if I’d be willing to jam out with them for their last solo of the year. I had NO drum experience but was eager! Game day was snowy and freezing but I was soaking it all in as it was my last game. Playing with the drumline was AMAZING! It was the perfect way to say goodbye to one of my favorite places.
Hometown: Wyandotte, MI
Major: Advertising Management
Years on Squad: 2017–2020
Favorite Sparty Memories: Sparty was requested to attend the funeral of an alum. The doors opened, I walked in as the band played our alma mater: it was surreal to experience the emotions. Once I got up to the front, I took a knee and rested my hand on his casket. Folks were crying and smiling through tears when I turned around. It was the first time I understood what Sparty means to people.
Hometown: Northville, MI
Major: Supply Chain Management
Years on Squad: 2015–2019
Favorite Sparty Memories: What means the most about being Sparty is giving back to the community. I was doing a pep rally in the city and dancing with fans. One fan I danced with had special needs and as any Sparty would, I gave him all the time he wanted to dance and all my attention. What I didn’t see was the mom of that child. Crying, she said she’d never seen her child so happy before.
Hometown: Clarkston, MI
Major: Human Biology
Years on Squad: 2015–2018
Favorite Sparty Memories: The 2015 Big Ten Football Championship in Indianapolis, IN was exciting. Another remarkable experience was the 2016 UCA College Mascot National Championship in Orlando, FL. Attending the Cherry Fest in Traverse City, MI added a delightful touch to these memorable moments.
Hometown: Haslett, MI
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Years on Squad: 2014–2017
Favorite Sparty Memories: In the summer of 2015, Sparty traveled to a golf championship at Pebble Beach. Sparty was the starter at the first tee box to kick off the first day. Sparty was pulling the flag for the golfers and started giving advice. After the golfers missed their putt, the caddies would look at the golfers and say “You should have listened to Sparty!"
Hometown: Northville, MI
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Years on Squad: 2013–2016
Favorite Sparty Memories: A standout memory for me was at a baseball game courtyard. Activities had been set up for kids to enjoy, including some small tricycles. I grabbed one for myself, which I was too big for and gave rides to several kids, prompting giddy laughs paired with waves and smiles from parents. Memories like these of the Spartan community are the ones that I value the most.
Hometown: Novi, MI
Major: Finance
Years on Squad: 2012–2015
Favorite Sparty Memories: The Rose Bowl trip was the highlight of my college career. From the events and pep rallies leading up to the game to being in costume for the last portion of the game and the celebration that followed, being able to experience that through the eyes of Sparty is something I will never forget.
Hometown: Howell, MI
Major: International Relations
Years on Squad: 2010–2014
Favorite Sparty Memories: Attending a Mascot Camp, doing runouts at home football games and participating in weddings were all unforgettable experiences.
Hometown: Livonia, MI
Major: Kinesiology
Years on Squad: 2010–2013
Favorite Sparty Memories: One of my favorite events was throwing the first pitch at Wrigley Field for a Cubs game. Sparty’s massive arms made it challenging to throw the ball all the way to the plate. It fell short and took one bounce into the catcher’s mitt. I still have the ball with a little scuff from the dirt at Wrigley Field to remind me of that unforgettable experience.
Hometown: Royal Oak, MI
Major: Advertising
Years on Squad: 2007–2010
Favorite Sparty Memories: Being on the basketball court for two Final Fours as Sparty, in 2009 and 2010, is a cherished memory. Each moment was filled with pride and excitement. The 2009 Final Four in Detroit holds a special place in my heart. Representing MSU on a grand stage in our home state was an indescribable honor. The energy from the hometown crowd made it truly unforgettable.
Hometown: Grosse Pointe, MI
Major: Advertising
Years on Squad: 2007–2009
Favorite Sparty Memories: In 2008, it was announced that Sparty would be on the cover of EA Sports’ new “NCAA Football 09 All-Play.” The final came down to Sparty and Butch T. Cougar of WSU. Sparty managed victory in the last hours of the competition. It was HUGE that Sparty graced the cover of a major video game. It’s a bit disappointing that the game isn’t very good, but I still proudly own two copies!
Hometown: Grand Rapids, MI
Major: French
Years on Squad: 2005–2007
Favorite Sparty Memories: In 2006, mascots raced with kids. The rule was to let the kids win. A kid’s parent told him he’d race against Sparty and he’d remember this forever. The kid won but with Sparty’s limited vision, I didn’t see him stop. My knee connected with the middle of his back and sent him into a crumbling heap. The fans from this other school rained boos incessantly and I hope that no-longer-a-kid still remembers that race.
Hometown: Okemos, MI
Major: Hospitality Business
Years on Squad: 2004–2005
Favorite Sparty Memories: We were playing Rutgers and MSU gave us a van to take Sparty to New Jersey. We had extra time, so we took a trip to Times Square and then the UN Building to take photos, but armed guards came out. We said Sparty was giving extra muscle to keep things secure. They demanded we leave. The NYPD walked us back and asked for a photo. They thought it was hilarious!
Hometown: Grand Blanc, MI
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Years on Squad: 2000–2004
Favorite Sparty Memories: Every summer, Sparty joined “Mascot Camp” with the cheer and dance teams, where fun was nonstop and friendships grew. I met MSU’s head cheer coach there, a beautiful girl studying civil engineering like me. We grew close, studied together and attended MSU events. 19 years of marriage and two great kids later, it’s been an amazing journey from the tunnel to marriage!
Hometown: St. Clair Shores, MI
Major: Economics
Years on Squad: 2002–2003
Favorite Sparty Memories: Mascot camp had to be one of the most fun, unique experiences of my life. The fun, creativity, shenanigans and environment — you really can’t even explain the energy. I always tell the story of how all the cheerleaders wanted to go to bed early and be disciplined, while all the mascots wanted to go out and party all night.
Hometown: Dexter, MI
Major: Packaging
Years on Squad: 2000–2002
Favorite Sparty Memories: The 2000 Final Four send-off rally was an exhilarating event. Also, seeing fans from the top row of Spartan Stadium at the last game as Sparty was a memorable moment. The most moving experience was running out with the American flag during the first home game after 9/11.
Hometown: Swartz Creek, MI
Major: Engineering Arts – Cognate in Marketing, Business & Supply Chain Management
Years on Squad: 1999–2001
Favorite Sparty Memories: I was headed back to our dressing room when someone asked if Sparty could visit a private party. Curious, I agreed. I walked in and it was Mohammed Ali. I was amazed, here I am as the biggest mascot in the world and he is bigger than Sparty. He leaned in and said “You look good, but I am still the Champ.” I’ll cherish that moment forever.
Hometown: Yorktown, NY
Major: Business
Years on Squad: 1999–2000
Favorite Sparty Memories: My favorite memory was portraying Sparty during the 2000 NCAA National Championship tournament, the Final Four and our Championship win. It was an amazing way to end my time as Sparty.
Hometown: Okemos, MI
Major: Electrical Engineering
Years on Squad: 1998–1999
Favorite Sparty Memories: I had a wedding event in Grand Rapids and at the hotel, the front desk guy said “Sparty!! I can’t believe you’re here. Some Spartans here would LOVE to see you.” He said I should storm in as a surprise. I plow the doors open and realize that I saw nothing but maize and blue. I put my hands over my eyes, turned around and got the heck out of there! I got punked!
Hometown: Blanchard, MI
Major: Communication
Years on Squad: 1997–1998
Favorite Sparty Memories: I was a senior when I was offered the honor of being the first female Sparty. Unfortunately, my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer. I was going to forfeit being Sparty to care for her, but she told me that was not an option. Gratefully, the squad was patient and understanding when I tried to balance student life with my daughter life. My superfan was able to see me as Sparty twice before she passed in Nov. 1997.
Hometown: Midland, MI
Major: Interdisciplinary Humanities: Theater, Film, Philosophy
Years on Squad: 1996–1997
Favorite Sparty Memories: I started an enduring tradition, of which I am quite proud. I was the first to wear Sparty boots at graduation. I was terrified I was going to get into trouble. I didn’t quite ask permission, but one of my directors let me into our closet. The hard copies of the photos may be lost but I am so happy to be the founder of such a happy and cool ritual.
Hometown: Jenison, MI
Major: Electrical Engineering
Years on Squad: 1994–1996
Favorite Sparty Memories: In 1996, a basketball game with famous MSU alums was organized and I was privileged with being Sparty. It was my last time in the costume and being on the floor with some of the greatest players MSU has produced was incredible. Magic Johnson was last to be introduced, I dropped to the ground in a pose, he called me up and we hugged, creating my favorite photo!
Hometown: Ferndale, MI
Major: Broadcasting/Journalism
Years on Squad: 1994–1995
Favorite Sparty Memories: One of my first games at the Breslin, I got crazy with the fans during one of the timeouts and didn’t realize protocol for other MSU entertainment. I started dancing with an extremely beautiful co-ed and had half of the arena yelling “SPARTY!!!”, while the dance team “Motion” was on the floor. I was stealing their thunder and got yelled at after the game.
Hometown: Grosse Pointe Woods, MI
Major: International Relations
Years on Squad: 1993–1994
Favorite Sparty Memories: I saw President Bush coming down the stairs from his plane. Then he yelled, “Hey Sparty!” — I couldn’t believe he knew Sparty’s name! I shook his hand and said it was nice to meet him (we’re not supposed to speak inside the costume, but…) and then I made a beeline toward Mrs. Bush. She opened her arms wide as I approached and I went in for a big hug.
Hometown: Kalamazoo, M
Major: Civil Engineering
Years on Squad: 1990–1992
Favorite Sparty Memories: Being on the field for the “No. One vs. No One” MSU victory in 1990.
Hometown: Hastings, MI
Major: Electrical Engineering
Years on Squad: 1989–1990
Favorite Sparty Memories: I was the first Sparty at the first game of the season in 1989. I tried not to think of the 72,000 fans who would be watching me but hoped that they would be. My heart was racing, when I stopped at the 50-yard line. I felt like it was now or never — I stomped my foot onto the ground and the crowd went wild. I knew I was part of something special.
Hometown: Aledo, TX
Major: Fisheries and Wildlife & Genomics and Molecular Genetics
Years on Squad: 2019–2023
Favorite Sparty Memories: My most impactful moment was a basketball game on Feb. 21, 2023. A week before three Spartans were killed on campus. We got a 3XL Spartan Strong shirt to wear with the Izzone. Seeing everyone together, grappling with tragedy and supporting each other, was my most profound Sparty moment.
Hometown: Limerick, PA
Major: Advertising Management
Years on Squad: 2018–2022
Favorite Sparty Memories: In February of 2020, I went down to Mobile, AL, for the Senior Bowl. While we were there, we went to a Children’s Hospital and it was one of the greatest moments of my life. The smiles on the kids faces when we would walk into each of their rooms was unforgettable. I gave so many high fives and hugs that day to kids, parents and stuffed animals.
Hometown: St. Clair, MI
Major: Media & Information
Years on Squad: 2018–2022
Favorite Sparty Memories: My unforgettable memories include attending the 2019 Maui Basketball Invitational, celebrating on the field as Sparty after winning the 2021 Peach Bowl and being on Big Noon Kickoff and running out before the 2021 Michigan football game in a packed Spartan Stadium.
Hometown: Lansing, MI
Major: Applied Engineering Sciences
Years on Squad: 2018–2022
Hometown: Flushing, MI
Major: Engineering Arts – Cognate in Marketing, Business & Supply Chain Management
Years on Squad: 2018–2022
Favorite Sparty Memories: One of my fondest memories was in my first year. Anthony Ianni, a former MSU basketball player, hosted a basketball camp for kids with special needs that I was in suit for. It was fun to sit and cheer, play basketball with them, take pictures and sign autographs. If I wasn’t Sparty, I would have never experienced such an amazing event.
Hometown: Chesterfield Township, MI
Major: Electrical Engineering
Years on Squad: 2017–2020
Favorite Sparty Memories: I’ve seen brides cry at weddings and jammed with Goldy on bass, but nothing compares to the weekend we beat Duke in the Elite 8. The team huddled with Izzo and it felt like we conquered the world. The crowd’s roar, the joy on everyone’s faces — it was like time stood still. That moment in green and white is one I’ll never forget.
Hometown: Troy, MI
Major: Marketing
Years on Squad: 2015–2018
Favorite Sparty Memories: Being a female Sparty presented its share of challenges and led to truly amusing moments — like encounters with college women attempting to flirt with me or my male security team member being mistaken for Sparty when I was the one in the boots. Whether I was breaking social norms or enduring comical misunderstandings, I was committed to portraying him authentically.
Hometown: West Branch, MI
Major: Advertising
Years on Squad: 2014–2018
Favorite Sparty Memories: In 2017, I had the opportunity to travel to California to visit Custom Characters to help give advice for the Sparty suit development and appearance. During my visit, I was able to meet fellow west coast Spartans and share updates that had been going on at campus. Connecting with alums made me realize the impact I was able to have along with portraying Sparty.
Hometown: White Lake, MI
Major: Physics
Years on Squad: 2013–2016
Favorite Sparty Memories: As Sparty, you have a secret identity throughout your time at Michigan State. Many of my favorite memories are the interactions with unsuspecting friends and classmates. Whether it involved capturing an extra wild photo with Sparty or creating a commotion to playfully embarrass them, it was always enjoyable to give them a special memory with Sparty.
Hometown: Canton, MI
Major: Human Geography
Years on Squad: 2013–2016
Hometown: La Grange, IL
Major: Food Industry Management
Years on Squad: 2011–2015
Favorite Sparty Memories: The best memory I have as Sparty was in 2015 running the team out at the Rose Bowl. Waking up at 4 a.m., a five-mile parade in front of a million spectators to a pregame pep rally. No amount of exhaustion could bring down my spirit. During the runout, I waved the Spartan Flag and planted it at the 50-yard line! I’ll never forget that moment of Sparty history!
Hometown: Maple Grove, MN
Major: Physiology
Years on Squad: 2010–2014
Favorite Sparty Memories: My favorite memories stem from all the time spent hanging out with my squad members, the rest was just an added bonus.
Hometown: Haslett, MI
Major: Horticulture
Years on Squad: 2010–2014
Favorite Sparty Memories: I met my wife because of Sparty. She worked at the Student Alumni Foundation, which shared an office with the mascot program and would help escort Sparty to events. After graduation, we started dating and many of our dates included seeing Sparty at games. The big guy was often part of our dates. Fittingly, Sparty celebrated our wedding with us in 2017.
Hometown: Bay City, MI
Major: Kinesiology
Years on Squad: 2009–2013
Favorite Sparty Memories: Sparty gave me the opportunity to meet an amazing group of men, travel the country and make lifelong memories. The moment that Sparty helped change my life forever was putting me on the field and in a space to meet my future husband, Frank Loomis (Drum Major of the Spartan Marching Band 2013–2015).
Hometown: East Lansing, MI
Major: Hospitality Business
Years on Squad: 2005–2007
Favorite Sparty Memories: In 2006, our Sparty squad finished third at nationals, falling short of our goal. We spent the next year training, capturing Sparty’s spirit and crafting our qualifying video “SpartyCenter,” which earned #1 nationwide. Invited to Nationals in Orlando, we spent winter break perfecting our skit “Sparty’s Spectacular.” Our dedication paid off as we became National Champions in 2007!
Hometown: Harbor Beach, MI
Major: Physiology
Years on Squad: 2005–2007
Hometown: Iron Mountain, MI
Major: Physiology
Years on Squad: 2005–2007
Favorite Sparty Memories: My last event as Sparty was after graduation. Being from Iron Mountain, the same city as Izzo and Mariucci, I performed at the annual Izzo-Mariucci Golf Outing as Sparty. The current Sparty let me wear the suit one last time. Steve and Tom announced, “Sparty is a local guy and this is his final event.” The applause was powerful — a perfect end to my Sparty journey.
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Major: Accounting
Years on Squad: 2003–2007
Favorite Sparty Memories: During my first ever “run” out of the tunnel, we made a fake “Willy the Wolverine” mascot and put one of our guys in it. He was taunting the crowd and acting silly. I said I was going to level him when I saw him and that’s exactly what I did! The crowd went nuts. Our camera man was so excited that he forgot to get it on video but the photos will live on forever!
Hometown: Naperville, IL
Major: Hospitality Business
Years on Squad: 2003–2005
Favorite Sparty Memories: Sparty is the only part of MSU that people can hug. In my years as Sparty, it’s the thousands of hugs that I’ll remember. Spartans tearing up hugging a representation of something they love. Parents handing over their infants to a college kid in 40 pounds of foam because Sparty is more than a costume. Sharing the love of MSU with so many Spartans was the honor of my life.
Hometown: Greenwich, NY
Major: Packaging Engineering
Years on Squad: 1999–2002
Favorite Sparty Memories: In 2001, Johny Manutes and I decided to create a U-M mascot for a home game vs. U-M, as they didn’t have one. We assembled a costume from a rented bear head, kid’s owl costume, shoulder pads and an oversized yellow shirt, creating Willy the Wolverine. U-M fans loved it and Sparty gave Willy a memorable beatdown.
Hometown: Grand Rapids, MI
Major: Supply Chain
Years on Squad: 1999–2002
Favorite Sparty Memories: Physics lesson in the endzone. Celebrating a victory, I ran into the endzone towards our offensive center and we leaped into the air. I forgot I had a mascot head strapped to my real head and as we made contact in the air, Sparty’s head flew off! I scurried headfirst back into the Sparty head and kept celebrating! I was relieved that ESPN hadn’t taped it!
Hometown: Rochester, MI
Major: Secondary Education: Math
Years on Squad: 1998–2000
Favorite Sparty Memories: The road trips! They provided hijinks, celebrations, camaraderie and memories with our fellow squad members. I won’t forget the times on the Milwaukee waterfront with dozens of mascots, not being able to get off the bus with the band and cheer team at Disney for the parade, sharing a charter flight with the MSU Alumni to Oregon, the last-second kick to win the Citrus Bowl and many more memories.
Hometown: Dallas, TX
Major: Marketing
Years on Squad: 1997–2000
Favorite Sparty Memories: My first game at Spartan Stadium was fairly hot. I wore a sweat band to stop sweat getting into my eyes. I was running in the stadium for pre-game hype and before I got to midfield, the sweat band had fallen over my eyes. I could only see straight down, once I miraculously reached the end zone, I flagged a Sparty escort to help. I never wore a sweat band again.
Hometown: Richmond, TX
Major: Human Resources
Years on Squad: 1997–1998
Favorite Sparty Memories: I was given the opportunity to attend the wedding of an MSU alum and walk his daughter down the aisle! That was an amazing experience of witnessing a family of true Spartan fans!
Hometown: Dearborn Heights, MI
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Years on Squad: 1994–1997
Favorite Sparty Memories: The highlight of my experience as Sparty was the opportunity to go to Bristol, CT and shoot commercials with ESPN Sportscenter.
Hometown: Clarkston, MI
Major: Telecommunications, Communication
Years on Squad: 1993–1999 (Escort), 1996–1997 (Co-Director)
Favorite Sparty Memories: Attending a mascot camp in the summer of 1996 had a huge impact on my Sparty experience. It allowed the Spartys to bond and focus on the year ahead, as well as learn from the other university mascots from around the country. The camp taught everyone the tools, tips and tricks they needed to have a successful year in class and as a mascot representing MSU.
Hometown: Utica, MI
Major: International Relations
Years on Squad: 1993–1994
Favorite Sparty Memories: Traveling to Tokyo, Japan for the Coca-Cola Bowl was an unforgettable experience. I also enjoyed routines alongside the Cheer team, Motion Dance team and Spartan Marching Band. Another highlight was crashing James Earl Jones’ book signing at the Spartan Bookstore.
Hometown: East Lansing, MI
Major: Business – Marketing
Years on Squad: 1990–1992
Favorite Sparty Memories: During Sparty tryouts in the fall of 1991, we were waiting in a room at the Breslin when Jud Heathcote suddenly entered with the Sparty head on. Fabulous! I wish I had a photo of that.