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FeedHead Man
UD’s biggest fan says when it comes to football, family values come first.
(page 1 of 9)
UD season football tickets: $132. Subaru Outback painted blue and yellow: $200. Gold football jersey sporting 00: $25. Blue paint for covering bald dome: $3. Becoming Helmet Head and rooting for the Fightin’ Blue Hens: priceless.
This is Tom Scott’s ninth season as Helmet Head—the blue-headed fan known to roam the stands, lead cheers and high-five folks to generate excitement. It’s all about the fun, sportsmanship and positive reinforcement. “They’re all college kids,” says the UD alum. “I can cheer for our guys, but need to remember that the other team are kids as well.”
Scott starts the game-day ritual as soon as he leaves his home in Middletown. The Blue Hen fight song blasts from speakers atop his car all the way up Del. 896 and into the parking lot at Delaware Stadium.
The self-described “big mouth” says he and his alter ego share several values. Family comes first. Behavior must be appropriate. Don’t take yourself too seriously.
As you might have guessed, Helmet Head was born at a tailgate. The next week, Scott shaved his melon and has done so ever since. When a family commitment once prevented the traditional head painting, the fans booed when he arrived. So Scott’s family now suits up, too. His wife, parents and children wear shirts with their names: Mrs. Helmet Head, Helmet Sr., Helmet’s Mom, Princess Helmet, Helmet Jr., Mini Helmet and Helmet Reloaded.
“It’s a great sport and a good time,” Scott says, “and a great way to spend time with my family.”
Priceless.
—Paula F. Kelly
Page 2: Fighting for a Future
