Do You Have What It Takes To Be The Next Monte Bear?

Monte the University Of Montana Grizzly mascot, is one of the most loved characters in Missoula, and the state of Montana. Do you have what it takes to fill those shoes?

I have to admit we have one of the coolest sports mascots around. Monte the Grizzly Bear is a Missoula legend. Watching the Grizzlies dominate on the field is fun, but watching Monte cruise into Washington Grizzly stadium on a Harley carrying a Montana flag really brings it all home. Getting the crowd amped up is just a small part of being Monte, however.

Along with his hilarious pranks, awesome break dance moves, and back flips, he makes over 200 appearances a year. Monte (short for Montana) raises thousands of dollars for children's charities. Giving back to the community is a big part of this bears job.

Like I said, these are gonna be pretty big shoes (or paws) to fill. In 2003 and 2005 Monte was voted the ESPN National Champion Mascot of The Year. Not too shabby for a small mountain town, right? Let's also not forget that one of the talented individuals to put on the bear suit went on to become Benny the Bull, the Chicago Bulls mascot.

Now, let's get to the details. The University of Montana is looking to grow the program and start training someone this year to take over mascot duties for 2023. All applicants need to pre-register HERE. If you have any further questions you are urged to reach out to Stacy Richards at stacy.richards@mso.umt.edu or call 406-243-5404.

Best of luck to all applicants. Make Missoula proud!