Taking Flight: Inside Ace’s Flight School

By Maddi Achtyl

Do you think you have what it takes to become the next Ace? We sat down with Stonehill’s spirited mascot, Ace, as well as current student, Elijah Byrd ‘27, to learn more about what it means to join Ace’s Flight School.

“Tryouts consist of intense bird training,” joked Ace. “I’m talking flying, soaring — can you do a double handstand while holding worms in your mouth?”

While Ace might have exaggerated a bit, Byrd said that the tryout process is all about bringing Ace to life.

“The process includes a series of activities that test collaboration, creativity, and energy. We look to see how people think on their feet, work with others, and bring Ace’s personality to life,” he said.

Byrd said the number of students selected each year varies, but there is a place for everyone on the Flight Crew, not just those selected to wear the suit.

Getting the chance to be an Ace is rewarding; it gives students the opportunity to show their school spirit by engaging with the Stonehill community at year-round events.

Being Ace is not just putting on a costume and dancing in front of people. It is about embodying school spirit and connecting with the community.

“Being a mascot is really about leadership in school spirit,” said Byrd. “From the moment you put on that jacket and those boots to the moment you take them off, your goal is to make sure everyone you meet has a positive experience. You do it out of love for the community.”

Photo Credit: Elijah Byrd '27

Flight crew members learn to step into and embody Ace's character when they put on the suit. This is not as easy as it may seem, though. There are some challenges that come with it, and flight crew members learn this quickly.

“​​The hardest part is managing your energy throughout an event. You don’t want to burn out in the first few minutes, but you also have to keep your energy high enough to keep the character alive. It’s a delicate balance,” said Byrd.

Ace and other flight crew members participate in many memorable events throughout the year, but some stand out for their impact on the community.

“My favorite moment was performing with the Dance Team during their Dance Clinic! We had kids come in to learn a halftime routine, and getting to dance with them on game day was amazing. They bring so much joy and energy — just like me.”

Qualities sought in potential flight crew members include spirit, creativity, fun, as well as open-heartedness. A member must know how to get the crowd going and keep them engaged during long events.

“It’s not about being perfect — it’s about having fun, engaging the crowd, and embodying Ace’s spirit,” said Byrd.

Ace had some advice for anyone heading to Flight Crew tryouts this Friday: “Be yourself! Don’t feel like you have to be the number one athlete — just bring your energy, your personality, and have fun! I can’t wait to see everyone there!”

Flight School tryouts are being held this Friday, October 31, from 6:30–8:30 p.m. in the Fieldhouse on Court 4.