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YoUDee
YoUDee laying on Raymond Field
UniversityUniversity of Delaware
ConferenceCUSA
DescriptionBlue Hen Chicken
First seen1993
Related mascot(s)Baby Blue, Air YouDee
Hall of Fame2006

YoUDee (pronounced yoo-dee) is a mascot of the University of Delaware, along with Baby Blue. It is an anthropomorphic "fighting Blue Hen", and its species is the blue hen, as the state bird of Delaware. While YoUDee appears masculine and can have male or female performers, it is "officially androgynous",[1][2] "neither female or male".[3][4]

According to the University of Delaware, YoUDee's colors are Blue and Gold because its great-great-great-grandfather was awarded the gold medal for Valor during the Battle of Trenton in the American Revolutionary War. The men in the company commanded by Captain Jonathan Caldwell actually carried Blue Hens with them into combat in order to hold cockfights in their spare time. It is said that the men under Capt. Caldwell had bravery in battles that was comparable to their fighting blue hen chickens.[5]

History

[edit]

Pre-YoUDee

[edit]

In 1911, the University of Delaware adopted the Blue Hen as its official mascot.[6]

In the 1930s, the initial physical mascot was a live blue chicken that was tended to by members of the cheerleading team.[6][7][8] It is unclear if it was a blue hen, or a chicken with blue feathers, as it is believed there are no true descendants of "fighting blue hens of Revolutionary War times."[9]

Starting in 1950, several costumed "Fightin' Blue Hen" mascots existed. Little is known about them besides the fact that they were "a variety of light and dark blue suits."[6] Few photographs of them can be found.[10][11][12] All of the costumes were presumably retired before YoUDee appeared.[13]

One reader of The News Journal in Wilmington requested that one of the old mascot's costume should be displayed in the nearby Bob Carpenter Center. This reader was not alone, as a petition with over 1,000 signatures circulated the state of Delaware, demanding the same. The Athletics Department responded and objected to the petition on the grounds that there was no room for it, and that "it would be inappropriate."[10] Articles from the time indicated that at football games, the old mascots were ridiculed and pelted with items such as "marshmallows" and "batteries" by students on a frequent basis.[14] It is unclear if this was a recurring skit coordinated by the mascot team, or represented student emotions at the time.

  • Costumed University of Delaware mascots before YoUDee
  • Blue Hen Yearbook, 1966
    Blue Hen Yearbook, 1966
  • Blue Hen Yearbook, 1970
    Blue Hen Yearbook, 1970
  • Blue Hen mascot standing in front of crowd.
    Blue Hen Yearbook, 1991
  • Blue Hen mascot walking and waving on crosswalk.
    Blue Hen Yearbook, 1992
  • Blue Hen mascot standing in front of a fire truck.
    News Journal, published in 2003

A successor mascot would take its place. When the University of Delaware President David Roselle was questioned as to why there would be a new mascot, he said "[well], the obvious answer is, the old one wore out."[15]

Hatching

[edit]

YoUDee was first seen (or "hatched") at the Delaware-Lehigh football game in Delaware Stadium on September 4, 1993,[6][15][16][17] after being created by Tom Sapp of Real Characters, Inc. (an Atlanta-based advertising agency.)[18] Student performers were scouted to wear the costume. After two students applied and performed in tryouts, Robert Boudwin became the first performer of YoUDee. Boudwin worked to build YoUDee's personality and far-reaching image from "Delaware's infamous mascot" to "ass kickin' chickens."[19][20] With help from David Raymond, the original Phillie Phanatic,[21] the university mascot program has become a gateway to several professional mascot careers.

Chris Bruce, a 2002 graduate earned YoUDee its initial first-place finish. Brandon Williams, a 2003 graduate became the Baltimore Ravens mascot Poe.[22] Other YoUDee alumni went on to perform Philadelphia Eagles' mascot Swoop, and Boudwin went on to perform as Clutch of the Houston Rockets.[23][24][25]

Some controversy was aroused in November 1995 when YoUDee "mocked" middies (Midshipmen) at the United States Naval Academy.[26] According to reports some time after the incident, the disturbance was YoUDee mooning Midshipmen, then attempting to carry away the academy's two goat statues. It is speculated that the act was part of some fraternity hazing requirement.[27] Though, not everyone viewed this as mocking, as there were purportedly "many fans, both Navy and Delaware" that enjoyed the mascot's behavior and performance, both before and during the game.[28]

YoUDee was "listed as one of the 16 worst college mascots in the nation" in a Newsweek issue in 1997. By those interviewed at the time, it is believed this designation was given because YoUDee is "unique" or "not tough enough."[6] In contrast, in 2005, YoUDee was chosen to star in a nationwide ESPN News advertisement,[29] and allegedly appeared on Wheel of Fortune, Hardball with Chris Matthews, and Good Day Philadelphia.[30]

Another dispute was with concerns over a skit. In 2006, YoUDee would be carrying a cake, and a staff member would be displaying a sign that read "Happy Birthday Megan!" As the mascot climbed the stands, it would trip and crash into someone with the cake. Later on, the person covered in cake would be wearing a shirt that read "I got caked by [YoUDee.]" Sharon Harris, then Mascot Coordinator at the University of Delaware, in an interview said these skits were staged, and the person receiving the cake would always be a mascot team member.[31]

Coaching

[edit]

The program has been directed by Sharon Harris under the university's Office of Public Relations since about 1999[21] until summer of 2014 when the University Athletic Department took over the oversight of the mascot program. This aligned the Cheer, Dance and Mascot programs under one umbrella of Spirit Program. This was under new Spirit Coordinator Rob Ellery who oversaw the programs until summer of 2019 when Ryan Blandford took over. Ryan was in charge through summer of 2024 when current Spirit Coordinator and long-time assistant/All-Girl Head Coach Kirby Lynch took over the mantle.[32]

After transition to Athletics in 2014, Chad Mills moved to the coach position where he served until 2016. From 2016 until 2021 there were various coaches, Tony Goldston, Abbie Martino and Kirby Lynch all had a hand in overseeing the team. Chad returned in 2021 and led the team through 2023. In summer of 2023, Tony Goldston a long-time assistant coach with spirit, took over the Head Coach position.

Hello, YoUDee!

[edit]

Dana Davis made a children's book titled Hello, YoUDee! which was released and published in 2013 by Mascot Books.[33][34] It follows YoUDee around the University of Delaware campus before going to the "stadium for the big game."[35] While the licensed book refers to YoUDee with masculine pronouns, YoUDee has been "neither male or female" since 2004.[4]

Awards and recognition

[edit]

On August 16, 2006, YoUDee was inducted into the NCAA Mascot Hall of Fame, at a ceremony in Philadelphia's Love Park.[16][30] This was caused in large part by "YoUDee's fan leadership."[29]

YoUDee has participated and won the Universal Cheerleader's Association (UCA) National Mascot Championship open division several times:

UCA National Championship
Year Place Source
2025 1st
2024 2nd [36]
2023 1st [37]
2022 2nd [38]
2021 6th✝ [39]
2020 2nd [40]
2019 1st [41]
2018 2nd [42]
2017 1st [43]
2016 1st [44]
2015 2nd
2014 2nd
2013 1st
2012 1st [45]
2011 1st [46]
2010 2nd
2009 1st [46]
2008 5th [47]
2007 7th [48]
2006 4th [49]
2005 4th [50]
2004 3rd [24]
2003 8th [51]
2002 1st [29][46][49]
2001 4th
2000 5th
1999 2nd [52][53]

In 2002, YoUDee won first place in the entire UCA National Mascot Championship. It is likely in 2009, the mascot competition would be split into Mascot Division IA for mascots belonging to universities with Division I football (FBS) teams, and Open Mascot for all other mascots; YoUDee would compete in the latter.[46] YoUDee won their first national championship in 2002 which was in the single division defeating teams that now compete in Division 1A. In 2009, YoUDee's second national championship was won in the Open Division, where they competed from 2009 to 2025. Starting in 2026, with the university's move to FBS and Conference USA, YoUDee will be competing in Mascot Division 1A.

YoUDee has also been named to Capital One All-America Mascot Team in 2003,[54][55] as well as first place in several UCA Mascot summer camps.[6]

Due to COVID-19, all mascots competed in one unified division. Previously, YoUDee has been competing in the Open Mascot division for several years.

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

YoUDee

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
YoUDee is the official of the , portrayed as a costumed, androgynous anthropomorphic fighting Blue Hen that stands 6 feet 8 inches tall and embodies the ferocity of the university's state symbol. The mascot's origins trace back to the , when the Delaware Regiment, known as the "Blue Hen's Chickens," drew their nickname from the reputed gameness of their fighting cocks bred from a distinctive blue-feathered hen strain. In 1911, the formally adopted the "Blue Hen" as its symbol through its yearbook, and by 1931, a live Blue Hen rooster appeared at football games as an early mascot representation. The modern YoUDee character debuted in 1993 as a costumed figure, evolving from earlier, more rudimentary depictions like a 1950s-era and a mid-1970s fluffy version, to become a dynamic performer at university events. YoUDee is joined by a sibling mascot, , introduced in 1999 to represent the university's athletic teams, collectively known as the Fightin' Blue Hens in the (CAA). Both mascots are gender-neutral, reflecting the inclusive spirit of the Blue Hen breed, which includes roosters and hens and is maintained on campus through a group called The Birdgade—three live male Blue Hens that attend select football games. YoUDee has achieved significant recognition in mascot competitions, securing ten United Cheerleading Association (UCA) National Mascot Championships in 2002, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2023, and 2025, and earning induction into the . These accomplishments highlight YoUDee's role in promoting , resilience, and Delaware's historical ties to the Blue Hen legacy at athletic events, parades, and community appearances.

Description and symbolism

Physical characteristics

YoUDee is depicted as a 6-foot-8-inch tall, androgynous anthropomorphic fighting Blue Hen chicken, embodying the state bird of in the university's signature blue and gold colors. The costume features a feathered head with a prominent and wattle, large expressive eyes, and a , complemented by broad, sweeping wings that allow for dynamic gestures and an athletic build that conveys energy and a fighting spirit. Constructed from lightweight Scott foam, Antron fleece, and medical-quality plastics, the design prioritizes performer mobility and endurance. Debuting in 1993, the current iteration of the YoUDee costume has remained largely consistent, with its androgynous nature enabling multiple student performers of any gender to portray the without specification. This design choice supports the 's role in engaging diverse audiences at university events.

Name origin and meaning

The name "YoUDee" is the official designation for the 's mascot, an anthropomorphic representation of the Fighting Blue Hen, and is pronounced "yoo-dee." According to University of Delaware lore, the name derives from Col. George W. YoUDee, a figure from the cited for bravery, considered the mascot's great-great-great-grandfather. The stylized spelling capitalizes the "U" and "D" to emphasize the university's initials (UD), distinguishing it from the broader "Blue Hen" nickname while maintaining a playful nod to the institution's identity. YoUDee embodies the "Fighting Blue Hen," drawing symbolism from the Blue Hen Chicken, Delaware's official state bird since 1939, known for its distinctive blue-gray plumage and spirited temperament. This ties directly to Revolutionary War lore, where soldiers from Captain Jonathan Caldwell's Delaware regiment carried fighting gamecocks—including Blue Hens—into battle, earning the moniker "Blue Hen's Chickens" for their tenacious and resilient combat style. The mascot's adoption in 1911, via the university yearbook titled The Blue Hen, formalized this heritage to symbolize the institution's fighting spirit and connection to 's historical valor. Complementing this symbolism are the University of Delaware's official colors of blue and gold, which adorn YoUDee's costume and reinforce themes of unity and pride in university traditions. YoUDee maintains an androgynous identity, avoiding gendered pronouns to promote inclusivity and emphasize its universal appeal as a unifying figure for the campus community.

History

Origins of the Blue Hen mascot

The Blue Hen mascot was officially adopted by the in , when the student yearbook was titled The Blue Hen, drawing from the longstanding association of the blue hen chicken with 's fighting spirit during the Revolutionary War. This adoption predated the bird's designation as the official state bird on April 14, 1939, by the , which formalized its symbolic role in the state. The choice reflected the university's emphasis on resilience and combativeness, inspired by historical accounts of Delaware soldiers keeping renowned fighting cocks from blue hens in their regiments. In the , the transitioned to physical representations through live blue hen chickens, beginning with a rooster adorned in wing covers bearing a large "D" that appeared at a football game in 1931, organized by male cheerleaders to boost . By the , live birds continued this , with one notable example being a hen named "Dela," which served as the university's during athletic events and celebrations. These live mascots were housed and cared for by students, embodying the "Fightin' Blue Hens" moniker and adding an interactive element to games and rallies. The introduction of costumed mascots occurred in 1950, replacing the live birds with a rudimentary Blue Hen outfit worn by students at football games and other university events. Early versions featured simplistic designs, often described as intimidating or cartoonish, with exaggerated features like large beaks and blue plumage that evolved slightly over the decades but remained amateurish in construction. These costumes, donned by volunteer students, appeared in photos and parades throughout the 1950s and into later years, fostering community engagement despite their basic materials. By the late and early , the prior costumed iterations had become worn and outdated, lacking professional elements that could enhance visibility and appeal at large events, which paved the way for a comprehensive redesign. This period marked the retirement of the earlier rudimentary suits, as they no longer met the growing demands of university athletics and public appearances.

Creation and debut

In 1993, the University of Delaware's athletics department commissioned the creation of a new costumed mascot to embody the Fightin' Blue Hens, selecting Real Characters Inc. (RCI) of for the project. Tom Sapp, RCI's chairman and , led the , crafting YoUDee as an androgynous, anthropomorphic Blue Hen standing 6 feet 8 inches tall, constructed from Scott , Antron fleece, and medical-grade plastics for durability and expressiveness. YoUDee made its public debut on September 4, 1993, during the University of Delaware's home football opener against Lehigh at Delaware Stadium, where the Blue Hens secured a 62-21 victory. The first performer was Robert Boudwin, a major and Class of 1997 student who was selected through a competitive tryout at the Bob Carpenter Center; he developed YoUDee's signature personality, including a confident strut, humorous antics, and engaging crowd interactions to lead cheers and energize spectators. The debut elicited an enthusiastic response from students, , and fans, who praised YoUDee for revitalizing following a period without a dedicated live presence on . Boudwin's performances alone accounted for over 250 appearances in the mascot's inaugural year, spanning football games, events, and , which helped solidify YoUDee's immediate popularity.

Development and management

In 1999, the established a dedicated program for YoUDee, appointing Sharon Harris as the first full-time coach and coordinator. Harris, serving in the role until 2014, focused on developing structured training for student performers, emphasizing performance routines, crowd interaction skills, and safety protocols to handle the physical demands of the costume, which can weigh up to 40 pounds when wet. Under her leadership, the program grew from its initial debut in 1993 into a professionalized operation that prepared performers for national competitions and university events. Following Harris's tenure, oversight of the YoUDee program transitioned to the Athletics Department in 2014, aligning it with and dance teams under a unified spirit program. This shift introduced coordinators such as Robert Ellery, who served as spirit coordinator from 2014 to 2019, and Kirby Lynch, who joined as coordinator in 2018 and was promoted to spirit coordinator in 2024, prioritizing opportunities like and national camp attendance. The management structure now emphasizes ongoing skill enhancement, with performers receiving scholarships and travel support as student-athletes. Training protocols for YoUDee performers include rigorous requirements to endure long appearances, monthly performance workshops for refining routines and , and a rotation of several student team members—typically 4 to 9 per season—to ensure anonymity and bring fresh energy to the role. Performers maintain strict confidentiality to preserve the mascot's singular identity, auditioning based on height (5'9" to 6'1" for YoUDee) and enthusiasm, with the team collectively handling over 200 events annually. In preparation for the university's transition to FBS football in the 2025 season and full membership in 2025, the YoUDee program has adapted by enhancing visibility through increased branding integration, such as prominent features in game-day promotions and media broadcasts, to amplify amid national exposure. This includes updated guidelines for mascot appearances at higher-profile events and alignment with marketing to support the program's evolution alongside the football team's elevated status.

Performances and activities

University events

YoUDee, the official of the , maintains a prominent presence at all home athletic events, including football, men's and , and soccer games, where it energizes crowds through energetic performances and direct fan engagement. At these games, YoUDee leads cheers and participates in shows, often coordinating with the squad and Fightin' Blue Hen to amplify . Fan interactions are a key component, with YoUDee offering photo opportunities, autographs, and meet-and-greets during events such as mascot basketball games and pre-game activities, fostering a among students and supporters. Beyond athletics, YoUDee contributes to a variety of non-athletic university events to build campus camaraderie and welcome new members of the Blue Hen community. It regularly appears at celebrations, including pep rallies where it pumps up the crowd alongside , the secondary mascot. YoUDee also participates in commencements, making ceremonial appearances to honor graduating seniors, as seen in events like the 2024 ceremony. During student orientations and welcome days, YoUDee engages incoming freshmen through fun interactions, such as photo sessions that are highlighted in UD's traditions. Additionally, YoUDee joins campus festivals, participating in activities that promote student involvement and school pride. Signature routines form the core of YoUDee's performances at these university events, emphasizing interactive and synchronized elements to boost enthusiasm. Central to its act is leading "Fightin' Blue Hen" chants, which rally fans during games and gatherings. YoUDee often incorporates dances synchronized with the , such as those in pre-game tunnels or victory celebrations, enhancing the visual spectacle alongside the cheer and dance teams. These routines, performed over 200 times annually, help cultivate a vibrant atmosphere that draws students to events and strengthens overall engagement.

National competitions

YoUDee has maintained a consistent presence in the Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) Mascot Nationals since the early 2000s, competing in the open division with routines that blend acrobatics, comedic skits, and custom props inspired by the Blue Hen mascot. These performances emphasize high-energy interactions to engage judges and audiences, often incorporating flips, tumbles, and character-driven humor to showcase agility and entertainment value. The annual event, held at the Wide World of Sports Complex in , draws mascots from across the nation, providing a platform for YoUDee to demonstrate skills honed through dedicated practice. Preparation for the UCA Nationals begins with summer training camps organized by the UCA and United Dance Association (UDA), where YoUDee joins cheerleaders and dancers to learn advanced techniques, refine movements, and build team cohesion over multi-day sessions. Choreography development follows, led by spirit team coaches who collaborate on themed routines, occasionally incorporating creative input from classes focused on and to craft skits that highlight the mascot's personality. This process culminates in previews on campus, such as performances at local venues, before the team travels to Orlando for the competition, ensuring routines are polished for national scrutiny. Beyond the UCA Nationals, YoUDee has expanded participation to other prominent events, including the 2012 Capital One Mascot Challenge, a bracket-style online competition involving weekly skill-based matchups against mascots from schools like Rutgers and . These opportunities, along with regional cheer and mascot showcases, serve as skill-building platforms to test new elements like crowd interaction and prop usage in competitive settings. A notable example includes the 2025 UCA Nationals routine, which focused on dynamic agility displays and high crowd energy to captivate spectators during the open mascot finals and earned first place in the Open division. Such engagements extend YoUDee's reach beyond university game routines, fostering growth in performance versatility.

Awards and recognition

Championships

YoUDee has secured the UCA Open Mascot a total of ten times, establishing it as one of the most successful mascots in the competition's history. The victories occurred in the following years: 2002, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2023, and 2025. These successes are attributed to strategic routines emphasizing high-energy , such as flips and tumbles, alongside strong audience participation to maximize value. For instance, the 2019 winning performance featured a space-themed narrative that incorporated crowd chants and dynamic movement to engage spectators fully. Themed elements, like historical or adventurous motifs, have also played a key role in highlighting creativity, allowing YoUDee to stand out in routines that blend with physical prowess. Coaching has been instrumental in these achievements, with wins clustering during Sharon Harris's tenure as mascot coordinator from approximately 1999 to 2014, encompassing the 2002, 2009, 2011, 2012, and 2013 titles. Following the program's transition to university athletics in 2014, subsequent victories in 2016, 2017, 2019, 2023, and 2025 occurred under later coordinators, including the 2023 and 2025 wins guided by Spirit Coordinator Kirby Lynch. The UCA National Mascot Championship, held annually as part of the UCA & UDA College Cheerleading and Dance Team Nationals, evaluates performances based on criteria including crowd appeal and interaction (10 points), creativity (10 points), execution (10 points), entertainment value (10 points), and overall impression (10 points). YoUDee's consistent edge stems from its ability to deliver agile, high-impact routines—featuring flips and quick maneuvers—that overcome the restrictive nature of the bird costume, while prioritizing crowd engagement to score highly across entertainment and interaction categories.

Hall of Fame induction

YoUDee was selected for induction into the in 2006 based on a combination of an online public poll and evaluations of the mascot program's achievements, including national visibility through features in the NCAA Hall of Champions exhibit, television appearances, and multiple national championships. The selection recognized YoUDee's 13 years of service since debuting in the fall of , during which the mascot had become a symbol of pride and contributed significantly to under dedicated performers and creators like Mary Hempel and David Raymond. As part of the Class of 2006, YoUDee joined other notable mascots such as from the University of Wisconsin and Aubie the Tiger from , marking the Hall's first inclusion of a dedicated group of college mascots following its inaugural class in 2005. The induction ceremony took place on August 15, 2006, at 's , attended by approximately 300 people including children from local Boys and Girls Clubs and 65 fellow . was introduced by alumnus George Mallet, cohost of Good Day Philadelphia, and escorted by UD sophomore Nicole Gentile, a member of the university's team. Highlights included a performance alongside co-inductees like Clutch the Bear of the and of the , the receipt of the Golden Award, and a $100 gift certificate from Great Big Stuff, culminating in a festive atmosphere of confetti and mascot interactions. The induction elevated YoUDee's status, enhancing the University of Delaware's national visibility as noted by mascot coordinator Edgar Johnson: “YoUDee’s visibility has certainly enhanced the visibility of the University.” This honor solidified YoUDee's legacy as an award-winning , with its championship history—such as the 2002 UCA national title—serving as a key factor in the recognition, while contributing to ongoing influences on university branding and mascot arts.

Cultural impact

Media appearances

YoUDee has appeared in several commercials as part of promotional campaigns for the network. In 2005, YoUDee featured in a series of 15- to 30-second spots filmed with anchor John Anderson, depicting a comedic satirical skit where the mascot spins a with miniature sports balls to promote the channel; these aired in major markets including , , , Raleigh-Durham, and during broadcasts. The mascot is also the subject of the children's book Hello, YoUDee! published in 2013 by Dana Davis and illustrated by Adam Schartup. The 38-page hardcover follows YoUDee through daily adventures on the University of Delaware campus, introducing young readers to university life and landmarks en route to a football game at Delaware Stadium. YoUDee's digital media presence includes official accounts on Instagram (@youdee00) and X (formerly Twitter, @YoUDee00), active since the 2010s and managed by the University of Delaware Athletics. The Instagram account has over 5,500 followers as of 2025 and shares event highlights, behind-the-scenes content (without revealing the performer), and mascot routines, while the X account posts similar updates focused on university spirit. Beyond these, YoUDee appears in university promotional videos produced by the University of Delaware, such as highlight reels showcasing campus events and mascot activities uploaded to the official YouTube channel. The mascot is also featured in national mascot compilations, including UCA Nationals performance videos on platforms like Varsity TV and YouTube, which highlight competitive routines from college mascots across the country.

Community involvement

YoUDee has been actively involved in charitable activities within the Delaware community, particularly through visits to medical facilities. In 2001, YoUDee joined other regional mascots to visit patients at the Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children in Wilmington, providing entertainment and comfort to young patients during their stays. These appearances underscore YoUDee's role in supporting local health initiatives and uplifting children facing medical challenges. Beyond hospital engagements, YoUDee participates in off-campus events to foster connections across . For instance, in 2022, YoUDee made an appearance at a Friendship House fundraiser, the Walk in Wilmington, posing for photos and engaging attendees to support services for individuals experiencing . Such events highlight the mascot's contributions to local nonprofits and gatherings since the 1990s, aligning with broader efforts to promote goodwill and spirit. YoUDee also joins public celebrations and parades to strengthen ties with Delaware residents. In November 2024, YoUDee led the University of Delaware marching band in the Sussex County Return Day parade in Georgetown, a traditional post-election event that brings together political figures and the in a nonpartisan display. This participation exemplifies YoUDee's presence at state-wide festivals and observances, promoting educational and cultural engagement. In terms of educational outreach, YoUDee conducts school visits throughout to inspire youth. A notable example includes a classroom appearance at Allen Frear Elementary School in the in September 2025, where the mascot, along with the UD men's basketball team and cheerleaders, interacted with students during reading activities, fostering enthusiasm for learning and involvement. During the , YoUDee's engagements adapted to virtual formats to maintain morale. The 2020 YoUDee Leadership Awards, recognizing student contributions, were streamed live on instead of held in person, allowing broader participation amid restrictions. By 2022, in-person activities resumed, including charity photo opportunities and school interactions, marking a return to hands-on support.

References

  1. https://mascothalloffame.com/mascots/youdee/
  2. https://www.udel.edu/udaily/2022/march/mascot-university-delaware-history/
  3. https://udreview.com/youdee-and-baby-blue-from-then-to-now/
  4. https://bluehens.com/news/2015/5/6/210074112
  5. https://caasports.com/news/2023/7/20/baseball-caa-changes-official-conference-name-to-coastal-athletic-association.aspx
  6. https://bluehens.com/sports/2019/9/30/hire-youdee
  7. https://www.udel.edu/udaily/2023/january/spirit-program-national-championships-cheer-dance-mascot/
  8. https://tv.varsity.com/articles/13502080-uca-college-nationals-2025-champions-heres-who-won
  9. https://www.facebook.com/udelaware/posts/celebrating-national-bird-day-ud-back-in-1911-the-blue-hen-was-adopted-as-our-sy/758944072938186/
  10. https://bluehens.com/documents/download/2019/10/24/RhodeIsland.pdf
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  33. https://www.instagram.com/youdee00/p/Cn-pggvtA_6/
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  35. https://www.instagram.com/p/C7ZJ_N0uba3/
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  44. http://www1.udel.edu/udaily/2009/jan/spirit010609.html
  45. http://www1.udel.edu/udaily/2013/sep/youdee-capital-one-090312.html
  46. https://www.varsity.com/news/youdee-is-back-on-top/
  47. https://wjbr.com/2023/01/16/delawares-youdee-is-a-national-champion-mascot/
  48. https://www1.udel.edu/udaily/2011/jan/spirit-national-champs-012011.html
  49. https://www.newarkpostonline.com/features/ud-spirit-teams-among-best-at-national-championships/article_1d09bfbc-46a7-11e1-8861-0019bb2963f4.html
  50. http://www1.udel.edu/udaily/2013/jan/spirit-nationals-013113.html
  51. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HgZy8zTizQM
  52. https://tv.varsity.com/articles/6327095-youdee-is-back-on-top
  53. http://www1.udel.edu/udaily/2012/oct/youdee-spirit-honors-100311.html
  54. https://bluehens.com/news/2023/1/17/delaware-athletics-ud-spirit-program-hoists-up-three-national-titles
  55. https://bluehens.com/staff-directory/kirby-lynch/402
  56. https://www.varsity.com/uda/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/24-25-College-Rules.pdf
  57. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngUWMuzdQxc
  58. https://tv.varsity.com/video/11879889-university-of-delaware-youdee-2024-open-mascot-2024-uca-uda-college-cheerleading-dance-team-national-championship
  59. http://www1.udel.edu/PR/UDaily/2005/mar/youdee090805.html
  60. https://www.newarkpostonline.com/news/youdee-stars-in-newark-native-s-latest-children-s-book/article_703da99b-be3d-5792-b124-ebdfb9859a88.html
  61. https://x.com/YoUDee00
  62. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dlq6DJpRVuY
  63. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CqrLOgJDTlE
  64. https://www.dailylocal.com/2001/07/29/a-mascots-life-not-all-fun-games/
  65. https://www.friendshiphousede.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Summer-2022-no-bleed-2.pdf
  66. https://www.delawareonline.com/picture-gallery/news/local/2024/11/08/return-day-in-georgetown/76121220007/
  67. https://www.instagram.com/p/DOwgU9ZCLzr/
  68. https://egg.team/youdee-leadership-awards-2020
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