The Worcester Railers celebrated their mascot, Trax the Railyard Dog, by hosting a “birthday party” event on January 19. Fans of the Railers were encouraged to “Come celebrate everyone’s favorite Railyard Dog with Trax’s 9th Birthday.” The event was sponsored by the Veterinary Urgent Care Center.

Hosted annually at the DCU Center, Trax’s birthday party invited mascots from all over the surrounding area to roam the stands throughout the game, as well as meet fans both before and after the game. This year notable guests included Smiley Ball from the Worcester Red Sox, Chickens from Dave’s Hot Chicken and Dillon from Hartford Athletics, as well as many more. 

While the Railers were unable to secure an overtime win against the Wheeling Nailers, Trax was able to celebrate his own victory in a game of “Broomball”. 

Broomball is a game that Trax plays every year with his mascot friends in between the first and second periods. The event follows similar rules and goals as hockey, but is instead played with a small ball and brooms. 

Dave’s Hot Chickens dominated the ball for the first half of the game, but were unable to score for their team. With Clara, the WooSox heart, in the goal, it was difficult for the mascots to get around her and place the ball in the net. That was until Blaze from the Connecticut Sun produced a goal assisted by Jake of the Worcester Bravehearts. Attempting to rebound off of the goal, Trax shot the ball directly towards Clara which resulted in a deflection. Trax did not let this derail him though, as he attempts to score continuously after and finally produces a goal after four tries. In celebration, Trax slid across the ice to hype up the fans in attendance. Trax quickly produced a second goal, the third for his team, only seconds before the buzzer alerted the mascots that the game was over. 

After celebrating their win, Trax was presented with a cake and a card signed by fans prior to the Railers’ game. Trax and the mascots posed for several photos, and then retired from the ice in order to continue greeting fans throughout the rest of the periods. 

Trax’s birthday celebration offers a great opportunity for children and families to be involved with the Worcester community. Hosted annually by the Railers, I highly recommend attending Trax’s 10th birthday next year, and supporting athletics in the Worcester region.