Of course we’re prejudiced, but we’ve always thought the Jayhawk mascot was the best in the country.

That’s why, even though we aren’t surprised, we’re pleased that Kansas University’s Big Jay has been invited to participate for the first time in the Universal Cheerleading Association/Universal Dance Association College Nationals. The competition will be Jan. 16-18 in Orlando, Fla.

Going with Big Jay will be some of his best friends, the KU cheerleaders, who placed first in the Mid-American Region and received a fully paid bid to the national competition, another first for KU. Also heading to Orlando will be the Rock Chalk Dancers who placed eighth among 34 teams in the 1A Division and will have their expenses to the competition partially paid.

This is a well-deserved honor for the KU spirit squad, which works so hard to bring energy and enthusiasm to KU games and many other community events. It also is a wonderful recognition for the unique and widely recognized Jayhawk mascot. In recent years, the Big Jay and Baby Jay mascots have worked hard to add both athleticism and humor to their performances. Many a beaming child has posed for a photo with one of the mascots, and a Jayhawk symbol on a piece of clothing has started many conversations among KU fans around the globe.

Good luck to Big Jay and the rest of the KU spirit squad in next month’s competition. You’re already winners with us.