Brian Carpenter - Head Mascot Coach - Staff Directory

Staff Directory

Brian Carpenter

Title:
Head Mascot Coach
Email:

Brian Carpenter has been leading the University of Kansas mascot program as head coach since February 2020, after initially joining as an assistant coach in 2019. He is responsible for training the mascot team, along with his assistant coaches, in the character and traditions of Big and Baby Jay, ensuring their academic and physical fitness with twice weekly 5:30 am workouts. Brian has built a program rooted in tradition, teamwork, accountability, and fun. He oversees recruiting, training, game-day execution, and more than 250+ community appearances each year, helping students grow as leaders while representing KU with pride. Aspiring mascots can contact him at bcarpenter@ku.edu or for details go to Mascot Tryouts. For those looking to book a mascot appearance can visit Mascot Appearance Request Form.

Brian is a proud KU graduate with a bachelor’s degree in communications and has been connected to the Spirit Squad and KU Athletics for more than three decades, including three years as Big Jay during his time as a student in the late 1900’s.

Outside of KU, Brian works as the Director of Sales at the National Safety Council, where he leads a team focused on helping organizations strengthen their safety culture and reduce serious injuries, fatalities and save lives, from the workplace to anyplace.

He lives in Overland Park, Kansas, with his beautiful wife Sally and their two kids. Brian is passionate about mentorship, building culture, and creating memorable experiences for students, fans, and the KU community.