SAN JOSE, Calif. – Always sticking the landing, the new USA Gymnastics mascot on Thursday was revealed as a friendly-faced cat.

USAG President and CEO Li Li Leung revealed the as-yet-unnamed mascot as part of her remarks at the opening session of USA Gymnastics’ National Congress and Tradeshow at the San Jose McEnergy Convention Center. The event is held in conjunction with the Xfinity U.S. Gymnastics Championships.

“Whether someone is an athlete, fan, parent, coach, judge, club owner or volunteer, our goal is for the entire community to feel safe and have fun.” Leung said. “One way we will have a little fun is by introducing a new mascot. With so much positivity now under way, we knew 2023 was the year to do it.”

The mascot reveal came after a months-long development process that engaged fans and the gymnastics community. On March 21, a USAG social post asked “Out of all animals in the kingdom, which one do you think would make the best gymnast and why?” The post solicited a wide range of feedback, from goat to squirrel to lemur.

The overwhelming response – often with accompanying video or family pet photos – was a cat. Among the replies:

  • “Cats – they always land on their feet!”
  • “Cats ALWAYS sticking the landing!”
  • “Cats, of course!”

USA Gymnastics then developed multiple artistic renderings and engaged in market testing with fans, athletes, parents, and coaches to choose the final design. Featuring grey fur with white accents; red, white and blue hair; and wearing a red USA Gymnastics t-shirt and blue shorts, the cat is ready to welcome fans to gymnastics – and perform some skills itself.

Fans around the country are invited to submit name suggestions for the mascot online through 11:59 p.m. on Saturday, August 26. The mascot name will be revealed at SAP Center and via social media Sunday after competition concludes at the Xfinity U.S. Gymnastics Championships. Limited edition children’s apparel and stickers featuring the mascot are available at the USA Gymnastics merchandise booths in San Jose, and at usagymstore.com

The “live” mascot will make its debut in 2024.