Freddie the Falcon: The Daring Mascot of the Atlanta Falcons
High above the bustling crowds at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Freddie the Falcon, the iconic mascot of the Atlanta Falcons, provides fans with both thrills and laughter. Known for his adventurous spirit, Freddie recently took his excitement to new heights—literally. Strapping on a Spider-Man costume, he prepared for a high-flying stunt that would showcase both his bravery and his dedication to entertaining his fans.
As Freddie stands 200 feet above the field, the atmosphere around him is electric. The music vibrations boom through the metal catwalks, adding to the anticipation of the stunt he’s about to undertake. Despite being securely harnessed to the stadium’s structure, the sheer height can unnerve anyone. Just moments before his leap, Freddie demonstrates his usual charisma, energizing the waiting crowd with his antics.
With four hours left before kickoff, the stadium is eerily quiet, a stark contrast to the lively games that will soon unfold. Safety technicians surround Freddie, ensuring all his gear is securely attached. When the call finally comes to take the leap, Freddie, with a nod of assurance, leans over the edge and then soars into the open space—captivating fans below.
Freddie isn’t just a mascot; he’s a symbol of the Atlanta Falcons’ spirit and passion. He attends numerous public events throughout the year, from schools to car dealerships, promoting team pride and camaraderie among fans. Recently named the NFL Mascot of the Year, Freddie has brought joy and excitement to countless people, demonstrating that the role of a mascot extends far beyond the game.
The evolution of Freddie’s performance has taken a remarkable turn, thanks to the Falcons’ focus on creating dramatic and thrilling experiences. Under the guidance of Kurt Wisenbaugh, the Senior Director of Entertainment and Live Events, Freddie’s acts have transitioned into larger-than-life experiences. The massive Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with its intricate steel framework, provides an ideal canvas for these exciting stunts.
Kurt, having previously worked in environments ranging from the University of Michigan to Jacksonville, understands the energy that live stunts can bring to a game. His role involves not just the creative aspects but also navigating the complexities of logistics, safety, and compliance, ensuring that every stunt meets safety standards while captivating fans.
Behind the mask of Freddie is Jeremy Legg, a dedicated performer who has embraced the character since 2004. Jeremy’s passion for entertaining resonates as he reflects on Freddie’s journey, from simple zip line stunts to the more elaborate performances that have gained the attention of fans and media alike. It’s moments like having rapper Ludacris drop from the rafters to perform that resonate with audiences, blending sports and entertainment like never before.
Freddie’s stunts are made possible by Aerial Concepts, an entertainment company specializing in acrobatic performances. Led by Brett Rhinehardt, Aerial Concepts collaborates with various teams to create jaw-dropping moments. Brett, a former mascot himself, uses his extensive experience to ensure that every stunt is executed with precision and flair, keeping safety at the forefront.
The excitement Freddie brings to the field is compounded by the thrill of his stunts. Whether soaring through the sky or performing a record-setting bungee jump, each leap represents the risk and reward of pushing boundaries and providing unforgettable entertainment. For the fans, it’s a moment to cheer, gasp, and celebrate.
As the Falcons gear up for more performances, the vision is clear: to continually innovate and enhance the fan experience. Ideas flow freely, as both Kurt and Jeremy imagine future stunts that could incorporate advanced technology and creative storytelling, making each game an event to remember.
Freddie’s approach to these daring feats is inspiring. He embodies the spirit of stepping out of one’s comfort zone and embracing challenges head-on. “Sometimes, we just gotta jump in,” he emphasizes, highlighting the importance of courage and spontaneity in pursuing joy.
Overall, Freddie the Falcon represents much more than a mascot; he is an embodiment of adventure, inspiration, and relentless fun, captivating fans and igniting the spirit of the game every time he takes to the air.
