BEST OF DAYTON 2018: The top 3 mascots that keep our spirits up

Here’s something to cheer about.

A green mascot named Heater who stands over 7-feet-tall and wears size 27 shoes was pronounced Best Mascot in the Best of Dayton 2018 contest.

The top three favorite mascots, determined by voting Daytonians, can be found lifting spirits at events year-round.

Here are the top 3 winners:

🥇WINNER: Heater of the Dayton Dragons 

Heater is a fan favorite at Dayton Dragons baseball games and beyond. He and his sidekick, Gem, keep the crowds amused with their antics.

According to the Dragon’s website, Heater loves hot dogs but is scared of knights. His favorite quote is “Let’s dance.”

>> Daytonian of the Week: Dayton Dragons mascot Heater

🥈2nd Place: Rudy Flyer 

Rudy Flyer has been cheering on the Dayton Flyers since 1980. The first- string mascot is known as one of the best stunt pilots in the country, according to the Dayton Flyers website.

If you’ve seen the muscular mascot on the sidelines you should know he can also bench press more than 400 pounds and squat more than 500 pounds.

Credit: JAN UNDERWOOD

Credit: JAN UNDERWOOD

🥉3rd Place: Rowdy Raider 

Wright State University’s Rowdy Raider howl may intimidate opponents, but his favorite snack is graham crackers and chocolate milk.

The 245-pound wolf’s favorite meal, according to the university, is pork chops and applesauce. His favorite book is “The Three Little Pigs” and his favorite movie is “Dances with Wolves.”

About the Author