Shark Mascots Symbolize Community Programs

In 2008, the reorganization of the Board of Recreation led to the creation of the Department of Community Programs. Director of Community Programs Judith Josephs knew something had to be done to help raise excitement about the new department.

"Anytime something new is created, you face the difficult task of rebranding products," Josephs said. "We decided to create two new characters, and we just hoped they would stick."

Community Programs did just that, as "Shark Diddy" and "Sharkey" were created. The Summit Family Aquatic Center was also established, as it used to be known as the Summit Community Pool.

"We renamed the place because it had become so much more than just a pool," Josephs said. "We also added a new tagline: 'The city's hottest place to cool off'."

The new department did not stop there, as they also renamed the snack stand, now calling it "Sharkey's Snack Shack." That also comes with a new tagline: 'One bite and your hooked.'

As a part of creating excitement with the new characters, Josephs decided to create a "back story" for them.

"Shark Diddy is the head lifeguard, and he is the mascot of the Summit Sharks swim team," she said. "His little brother is Sharkey, and he is in charge of the children's pool. He makes sure there is no running, and enforces other rules as well, including making sure garbage is thrown away."

Shark Diddy also makes appearances at swim meets, will pose for photographs with families, helps accept awards at ceremonies, and dances with senior citizens.

"Adults love him as much as the kids," Josephs said. "I wasn't sure if it would go as well as it did, but Shark Diddy has become the Elvis of this place. The kids love him even though he has no voice (since he is a shark)."

Shark Diddy usually enters to some sort of shark-themed music, most notably Jaws. He gives away toys, prizes, and wears a lifeguard uniform, as well.

Josephs made it known that every year the department tries to do something new to keep the mascots fresh.

"This year we decided to do a shark infested theme," she said. "We added Sharkey garbage cans to the children's pool, and even added a four-foot carved shark in the plants when you first walk in."

Josephs pointed out the great value the mascots bring to the Summit Family Aquatic Center. She says that while it is extra work, it is worth it for the end result.

"Everyone is just thrilled with the mascots," she said. "He comes out, and everyone gets excited. He gives all the kids high-fins (similar to a high-five), and waves to the crowd. I am hoping that everyone sees the shark mascots and it helps them remember the rules, or they want to join the swim team. Everything really comes together once it is all set up."

The shark symbol can be seen all over the Summit Family Aquatic Center, and it certainly brings everything full circle.

"This has been the best value of anything we've purchased here," Josephs said. "It's the best dollar we've ever spent, and best of all it is widely entertaining."

Josephs also said to look out for a new mascot down at the Municipal Golf Course. She kept the identity secret, but said it will premiere this fall when the Liberty Open winner receives their prize.