It started in Greenbrier
Before he wore the Gov’s top hat, AJ Crowder was Bobby Bobcat. He began in middle school, learned the craft by watching other mascots, and carried that school spirit through his years at Greenbrier High School. Games and community appearances became opportunities to make people smile.
By senior year, the goal was already clear. His senior-night notes described a future as a professional mascot and named winning a mascot-camp championship in San Antonio as his favorite Greenbrier memory. In 2022, the community gathered to celebrate his next step: becoming Austin Peay’s first scholarship mascot.
A bigger stage
AJ spent four seasons bringing the Gov to life. Austin Peay finished second in the Open Mascot Division at nationals in 2023, then won the Open Division Mascot National Championship in 2024.
His work extended beyond game day. An internship with Nashville SC’s mascot program gave him experience with Tempo, skit writing and social media campaigns. In April 2026, Austin Peay recognized AJ with its Smash! Bang! Award, honoring his contribution to the Governor community.
The next chapter
AJ graduated on May 8, 2026, with a bachelor’s degree in communication media focused on sports communication. Postgraduation coverage described his pursuit of professional mascot opportunities—the same ambition recorded in his Greenbrier senior-night notes.
For today’s Bobcats, his path is a reminder that school spirit can become a skill, a college opportunity and a career goal.
