Date of Award

5-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Fine Arts in Interdisciplinary Media Arts

First Advisor

Joe Weber

Second Advisor

James Hutson

Third Advisor

Andrew Smith

Abstract

This project documents the creation and deployment of HootyHoo, an interactive augmented reality (AR) mascot experience designed for the O’Fallon Hoots, a small-scale collegiate summer baseball team. Built using accessible, open-source tools such as WebXR, Mixamo, Meshy, Botpress, Claude and ChatGPT, this prototype merges AI-driven conversation with animated 3D avatar interaction—redefining how fans engage with sports organizations digitally. Unlike enterprise-level applications used by professional franchises, HootyHoo is entirely browser-based, eliminating the need for app downloads and ensuring maximum accessibility for families and new fans with smartphones. The experience centers on Hooty, the team mascot, who answers questions about baseball and the Hoots organization, reacts to fan prompts, and performs dance animations in real-time. This project explores the possibilities of sports technology, creative storytelling, and community outreach, offering a human-centered alternative to big-budget digital fan experiences. By utilizing interactive technology through scalable, low-cost design, this work presents a model for how small teams can deepen fan relationships, enhance in-game entertainment, and inspire future AR applications in minor league and grassroots sports contexts.

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