Cosmo Through the Decades: From Kenny Driggs to a National Mascot Icon
When Ken “Kenny” Driggs first suited up as Cosmo the Cougar in the mid-1960s, he probably had no idea how much BYU’s iconic mascot would evolve. Cosmo has transformed from a beloved campus figure into one of the most athletic and entertaining mascots in the nation, captivating audiences and frequently ranking among the top college mascots nationwide.
The Beginning: Kenny Driggs’ Era
Kenny Driggs, my father, took on the role of Cosmo while completing his Master of Public Administration (MPA) at BYU. Before donning the mascot suit, he was already a familiar face on campus as a former member of the BYU football team, bringing his athleticism and competitive spirit to the field. Those same qualities helped him shine as Cosmo, where he channeled his adventurous side in a way that few would ever see. Wearing the mask gave him an exhilarating sense of anonymity, allowing him to embrace his wild side and be part of every BYU game’s energy without being recognized.
His time as Cosmo was filled with memorable moments. One particularly tense experience came when a live cougar was brought to the stadium for a stunt. As the man behind the mascot mask, Ken had the rare opportunity of “meeting” a real cougar. While the live animal wasn’t exactly eager to bond, my dad recalls the thrill of standing face-to-face with the wild creature, who was both curious and bewildered by the “big cat” in the suit beside him.
The Rise to National Fame
Over the decades, Cosmo’s role grew, and so did his reputation. From simple crowd-pleasing antics in the stands, Cosmo began performing more daring stunts, adding acrobatic moves and choreographed dance routines to his repertoire. These evolutions in Cosmo’s act were no accident but rather the result of BYU’s commitment to enhancing the mascot’s role to keep up with national trends.
In recent years, BYU’s mascot team has pushed the envelope, performing complex dance routines, flips, and even stunts alongside the Cougarettes, BYU’s award-winning dance team. A video of Cosmo dancing to “Rolex” alongside the Cougarettes went viral, propelling him to national fame and further cementing his status as one of the best in the business.
National Recognition
Cosmo’s acrobatics, charisma, and ability to engage with fans have led to a wealth of national attention. He’s regularly named among the top college mascots, thanks to his viral videos and high-energy routines. Whether it’s a perfectly timed dunk during a basketball game or an incredible stunt involving trampolines and somersaults, Cosmo has consistently captured the hearts of fans well beyond BYU.
Cosmo Today: A Reflection of BYU’s Spirit
Cosmo’s story is more than just a tale of one mascot; it represents the heart of BYU’s community. From Kenny Driggs’ early days behind the mask to today’s high-flying, viral sensation, Cosmo has become a symbol of pride, athleticism, and dedication. His journey reflects how BYU has grown and adapted over the years while still holding onto the spirit of fun and engagement.
As I reflect on my dad’s legacy as one of the early Cosmos, I can’t help but feel proud of the journey BYU’s mascot has taken. Cosmo has become more than just a cougar on the sidelines—he’s a symbol of BYU’s vibrant energy, a legacy of athletic excellence, and a constant reminder of the power of school spirit, hard work, and a little bit of daring.
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