Dear Hawkeyes,
Thank you for your interest in Herky the Hawk – the Iconic mascot of the University of Iowa. We are excited to announce our tryouts through a recruiting-based model for placement on the team.
Herky the Hawk is a part of the University of Iowa Athletic Department under the Iowa Spirit Squads. Along with the Iowa Dance Team and Iowa Cheerleaders, we represent the University of Iowa at not only athletic events, but university and alumni events, and on the national level as we compete at UCA College Nationals. Herky covers over one hundred games and participates in a multitude of public relations events throughout the year. The opportunities for you are endless. We travel to away football games, post-season Bowl games, basketball tournaments, and college camps. During games and events, you will have the ability to interact and entertain thousands of alumni and influential supporters. On campus, our athletes receive academic support, strength training, access to an athletic trainer, as well as nutritional and mental health support. These opportunities offer a great way for you to represent the University of Iowa while getting a collegiate education from one of the top Division IA schools in the country.
We are looking for not only the best male and female athletes, but the most well-rounded mascots, on the field/floor, in practice, in the classroom and in public settings. We believe commitment to the team is key to the success of the team. Mascots are hardworking, dedicated, respectful, quick thinking, creative and well-spoken athletes who can represent the University of Iowa in the best way possible at all times.
How to Get Recruited
- Fill out the Recruitment Questionnaire – Due by February 1st
- Attend Clinics
- If you are not already a student, apply to and be accepted to The University of Iowa
If you are serious about being Herky the Hawk, be sure to fill out the recruitment questionnaire and communicate with us frequently.
Be sure to look through the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for answers to many of the most common inquiries. If you have any additional questions after reading through the information provided, please reach out to me at any time. We look forward to meeting you soon!
Gregg Niemiec
Spirit Coordinator for Iowa Spirit Squads
Head Coach of the Iowa Cheerleaders
Alex Kern
University of Iowa Mascot Coach
Herky the Hawk Alumni 2017-2019