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New for 2014: Clark the Cub

Clark the Cub

For the first time ever the Chicago Cubs have a mascot in the form of Clark, a cute, cuddly bear cub who made his debut today at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center’s Pediatric Developmental Center.

“The Cubs are thrilled to welcome Clark as the team’s official mascot,” said Cubs Senior Director of Marketing Alison Miller. “Clark is a young, friendly Cub who can’t wait to interact with our other young Cubs fans. He’ll be a welcoming presence for families at Wrigley Field and an excellent ambassador for the team in the community.”

Clark is the result of focus groups indicating fan support for a more family-friendly atmosphere at Wrigley Field. The Cubs have been a holdout on the subject of mascots, but the move makes sense in terms of marketing and community outreach. And if the team ever needs a female companion to Clark, we’re guessing she’ll be named Addy — short for Addison.

Clark will serve that very role as a champion for Cubs Charities’ mission of targeting improvements in health and wellness, fitness and education for children and families at risk. Young fans will see him at schools during Cubs Caravan or Cubs on the Move Fitness Program visits; hospital appearances like his debut visit to Advocate Illinois Masonic; and a number of family-focused Cubs events such as Cubs Convention or Catch in the Confines.

More from the team’s press release:

Before and during games, Clark will greet fans as they enter Wrigley Field and stop by the Wrigley Field First Timers Booth to welcome new guests. On Family Sundays, he will help kids run the bases following the game. Most of the time, Clark will welcome fans to Clark’s Clubhouse at Wrigley Field, where families can make a special visit as they please.

Clark’s Clubhouse:
Following tonight’s appearance at Advocate Illinois Masonic, Clark will prepare his temporary Clubhouse at Sheraton Chicago for this weekend’s Cubs Convention. There, he’ll interact with young Cubs fans throughout the weekend while hosting traditional kids-related Convention activities.

Clark’s Clubhouse will permanently reside at Wrigley Field, where he’ll spend most of his time during Cubs home games. Young fans may see Clark on the field when it’s time for them to run the bases after games on Sundays, but you won’t find this bear shooting T-shirt guns, riding an ATV around the warning track or disrupting fans’ views of the field during the game. Families and children are encouraged to visit Clark in his new home next time they visit Wrigley Field.

Clark’s Backstory:
Clark was born loving the Cubs. His great-grandbear Joa was the team’s original live bear mascot back in 1916. When Joa retired to the Lincoln Park Zoo, he delighted the young bears with amazing Cubs stories and Clark was hooked! One day, Clark heard the roar of the crowd coming all the way from Wrigleyville, so he followed the sound to Wrigley Field-just in time to see the Cubs raise the ‘W’ flag.

Inspired by Clark’s enthusiasm and love of all things Cubs, the team invited him to continue the family tradition and become their official mascot! Soon, he’ll receive his very own Clubhouse. Clark’s favorite thing to do is hang out around the ballpark, keeping spirits high and kids excited.

The Cubs have set up a page for Clark at cubs.com.

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