The Seattle Kraken, a National Hockey League (NHL) team based in Seattle, has captured the hearts of fans with their unique and mysterious mascot, Buoy. Buoy is a 6-foot tall blue sea troll who brings energy, excitement, and a touch of magic to every Kraken game. In this article, we will delve into the history, description, reaction, and significance of Buoy as the beloved mascot of the Seattle Kraken.
History
The process of finding a mascot for the Seattle Kraken took two years, beginning shortly after the team unveiled its name in July 2020. Despite the association of a kraken with the team’s name, the decision was made not to use it as a mascot. Additionally, the team wanted to avoid redundancy with the Detroit Red Wings’ mascot, Al the Octopus. After much consideration, the Seattle Kraken introduced Buoy as their official mascot on October 1, 2022, prior to a preseason game against the Vancouver Canucks at Climate Pledge Arena.
Description
Buoy, said to be a nephew of the Fremont Troll, stands at an impressive height of 6 feet. He is a blue sea troll with distinct features that make him instantly recognizable. Buoy’s hair is a nod to the flowing locks of hockey players and the waves of Puget Sound. Lamont Buford, the Kraken’s vice president of entertainment experience and production, describes Buoy as having a removable front tooth, a squeaky aqua-blue nose, an anchor earring representing the Kraken’s alternate logo, an anchor tattoo on his rump, freckles, and a mysterious tentacle indicating an encounter with the Kraken.
Buoy makes regular appearances at Kraken home games, often accompanied by Red Alert, the team’s marching band. He navigates the arena’s concourses using elevators and a motorized hoverboard, adding to the excitement and entertainment for fans of all ages. With his unique appearance and playful personality, Buoy has quickly become a beloved figure among Kraken supporters.
Reaction
The debut of Buoy as the Seattle Kraken mascot garnered mixed reactions from fans and observers. While many expressed their admiration and fondness for Buoy, others had a strong dislike for his appearance. Some critics went as far as calling him the “ugliest mascot of all time.” However, it is important to note that Buoy’s primary target audience is children, and negative comments from adults may be a reflection of personal taste rather than the mascot’s appeal to its intended demographic.
Despite the mixed reactions, Buoy’s introduction received support from other NHL mascots, including Gritty from the Philadelphia Flyers and Chance from the Vegas Golden Knights. They tweeted messages of solidarity with Buoy upon his debut, highlighting the camaraderie and support within the mascot community.
Buoy’s Presence and Activities as seattle kraken mascot
Buoy’s role as the Seattle Kraken mascot extends beyond the hockey games. He maintains an active presence on Twitter, engaging with fans and responding to their messages. Even in the face of negative comments, Buoy has shown his playful nature by trolling critics with dismissive or sarcastic responses. This interaction adds an extra layer of fun and entertainment for fans both inside and outside the arena.
In addition to his online presence, Buoy has been involved in various activities and events. He has been seen participating in pre-game ceremonies, entertaining fans during intermissions, and even engaging in professional wrestling-style feuds with personalities like Paul Bissonnette. Buoy’s involvement in these events further enhances the overall fan experience and creates memorable moments for Kraken supporters.
Buoy’s Impact on Young Fans
Despite the initial polarized reactions, Buoy has proven to be a hit with younger Kraken fans. The Seattle Times reported that Buoy has resonated positively with children, which is a testament to his appeal and effectiveness as a mascot. The ability to connect with the younger audience is crucial for the success of any mascot, as they play a significant role in creating a lasting bond between the team and its fans.
Buoy’s presence and engagement with young fans contribute to a sense of community and excitement surrounding the Seattle Kraken. Whether it’s through interactions at games, social media engagement, or special events, Buoy’s impact extends far beyond the ice rink.
Buoy’s Unique Relationship with Seattle kraken
Buoy’s connection to Seattle goes beyond his role as the mascot of the Seattle Kraken. As a sea troll, Buoy pays tribute to the city’s rich folklore and traditions. His association with the Fremont Troll, a famous landmark in Seattle, adds to his local charm and resonates with the community. Buoy’s appearances around the Pacific Northwest, along with his connection to the mysterious deep sea creature, the Kraken, further solidify his unique relationship with Seattle and its residents.
Conclusion
Buoy, the official mascot of the Seattle Kraken, has become an integral part of the team’s identity and fan experience. With his distinctive appearance, playful personality, and active involvement in various activities, Buoy has captivated fans of all ages. While opinions may differ about his aesthetics, there is no denying the impact Buoy has made on the Seattle Kraken community. As the team continues to grow and evolve, Buoy will undoubtedly remain a beloved symbol of the Seattle Kraken spirit.