Pittsburgh mascots ice skate with families at Schenley Skating Rink

Mascot Skate 2020

Soundharjya Babu, Assistant News Editor

PITTSBURGH – Mascots from all over the Pittsburgh region, including RoMo, joined the Mascot Skate Party at the Schenley Skating Rink.

Iceburgh from the Pittsburgh Penguins, Doodles from Chick-fil-A, and many others tested out their ice skating skills at the Schenley Skating Rink and spent time with visiting families.

The 33rd annual Mascot Skate Party was a way for families and children to meet their favorite mascots from sports teams, schools, and small businesses. Admission to the Rink was also free for the day.

In addition to the 1988 weekend tradition, the rink also celebrated renovations.

“It’s a special day because it’s the second day that the remodeled ice rink out there… it’s absolutely beautiful,” explained Steel-Man, a mascot who was handing out balloons before children went out on the ice. Steel-Man has worked as a mascot for twelve years.

Mascot Skate Event Director Bill Backa was in charge of organizing the event and bringing everyone together. He is excited to open up the rink with renovations, including new ice, compressors and boards.

“People have a chance to see their mascot up close and in person,” said Backa. “They had some grant money from the sales tax and they were able to invest it into the rink here.”

Built in 1975, the rink is over 40 years old. Backa hopes that the Rink will stay open for generations to come.