Buzz Mascot
By: Erin Peterson | Categories: Mascots
Over the years, plenty of students have donned a bee costume to cheer on Georgia Tech. But it was the efforts of Richie Bland, Phys 81, that really helped the mascot Buzz —pardon the pun—take flight. With the help of a Six Flags–approved seamstress, Bland donned a foam-headed, Converse-wearing Buzz costume. He captured the imagination of fans when he sprinted out onto the football field during halftime of the Georgia Tech–Florida Gators game in the fall of 1980. Security was less enthusiastic: They escorted him off the field. After a bit of time and strategizing, Georgia Tech officials welcomed Buzz back to the field. In the years since, plenty of talented performers—both men and women—have donned the costume, and earned a scholarship for their efforts. They’ve also won armfuls of awards and honors: In 2000 and 2001, Buzz earned the National Cheerleaders Association mascot of the year, and in 2005 and 2006,