BECOMES THE GOV

There’s a new Gov mascot in town! Last summer, A.J. Crowder, also known as Bobby the Bobcat from Greenbirer High School, in Tennessee accepted an APSU Gov mascot scholarship that is the first of its kind.

“When I was awarded the scholarship, it was a very satisfying moment,” Crowder said. “I knew that my hard work during the last six years was going to pay off for college.”

Crowder has high hopes and goals for the Gov and spreading that Austin Peay spirit. National cheer competitions and an extensive wardrobe for the Gov are in the works.

“I am so excited to spread love and positive messages across the entire university,” he said. “It’s all about the people and bringing them joy and happiness. Let’s Go Peay!”

For six years, Crowder was better known as Bobby the Bobcat. He was always known for his enthusiasm and was often seen decked out in school spirit at school functions. One day, Crowder was called into the principal’s office and was given a giant box. In the box was the Bobby the Bobcat costume.

“I took that idea, and I ran with it,” Crowder said. “I got some ideas from YouTube and learned what to do and what not to do. I went to not only school events, but also community events. I just wanted to create a positive impact on our community.”

The Mascot Life

The pandemic couldn’t stop Bobby or Crowder. During a time when joy was hard to find, Crowder dressed up as Bobby and would attend birthday parties. Here, he still managed to spread joy, even at six feet apart.

Crowder’s work as Bobby earned him many accolades including the 2019 Varsity Brands School Spirit Award, the 2020 Main Street Preps Person of the Year Award, the 2021 Mascot Training Camp Champion and the 2022 Best Mascot Fan Favorite in Middle Tennessee.

As the Gov, he finished second in January 2023 at the UCA and UDA College Cheerleading and Dance Team National Championships.

After Austin Peay, Crowder’s goal is to become a professional mascot for a sports organization or team. “This opportunity would allow me to impact a much larger group of people tremendously,” Crowder said. His love for bringing people together has had a huge impact on his career as a mascot. First and foremost, he wants to spread happiness one dance and handshake at a time.

“That’s why I am super excited about starting here at Austin Peay as the Gov. When I was looking at colleges, I knew I wanted to make an impact like I did in Greenbrier,” Crowder said. “I saw Austin Peay as my book of blank pages and knew I could write my story at APSU.”