Mascot Tryouts for Children's Hospital

LEXINGTON, Ky. (April 12, 2010)Kentucky Children's Hospital will hold an informational session leading up to tryouts for its mascot, Stitches, at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 15, at the University of Kentucky Seaton Center's gymnastics room. During the session, duties and responsibilities for Stitches will be discussed.

Tryouts for the mascot will be at 1 p.m. Sunday, April 18, at the UK Seaton Center's gymnastic room. The tryouts are open to UK students who are available this summer and throughout the school year. Individuals who are interested in trying out should be between four feet, six inches and five feet, two inches tall. The tryout will consist of a short interview followed by a tryout wearing the costume. Candidates should dress in comfortable clothing.

The official mascot, Stitches, is a kitten and represents Kentucky Children's Hospital at numerous events not only on campus, but also throughout the state.

The UK student selected must be committed to work with Kentucky Children's Hospital, and this obligation requires commitment above other activities except for attending classes. The mascot also must have transportation for various events. The individual selected as a mascot will be awarded a partial in-state tuition scholarship for one year. A representative from UK HealthCare will be the voice of Stitches and speak on behalf of Stitches and represent Kentucky Children's Hospital. In addition, the representative will assist the mascot with their costumes, accompany and escort Stitches, and handle other miscellaneous duties as needed.

Kentucky Children's Hospital began the mascot program three years ago. For more information, contact Cynde Estep at (859) 257-2623 or e-mail at cleste2@uky.edu.