Aberdeen school pupils have been treated to special visits from Sport Aberdeen’s new mascots, Dee and Don, as part of a series of appearances introducing the characters to the local community.
Two primary schools welcomed the two new furry friends in January, with pupils enjoying fun-filled visits designed to inspire movement, joy and inclusivity.
Pupils at Bramble Brae School were treated to a party with Dee the Red Squirrel and Don the Highland Bull on January 21st, to mark National Red Squirrel Day and Dee’s official birthday. The dynamic duo joined children from Primary 1 to 4 for the birthday celebrations which included party games, dancing, treats and crafts.
Brought to life by Sport Aberdeen to encourage community spirit and active lifestyles, Dee and Don champion inclusivity, equality and diversity in sport. Both characters help to reinforce the message that living with certain health conditions doesn’t necessarily have to limit physical activity. Dee, who is hearing impaired, proudly wears a hearing aid, while Don the Highland Bull wears a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) to represent people living with diabetes.
Sharron Macdonald, Head Teacher at Bramble Brae, said, “We were delighted to welcome Dee & Don to celebrate Dee’s birthday and National Red Squirrel Day. The children had so much fun learning facts about red squirrels in the lead up to the day and were so happy to meet Dee in person.
“Don was also a huge hit with everyone, and it was also lovely for our learners to see Don wearing a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) demonstrating visible support and inclusion for learners with diabetes. Dee & Don are brilliant ambassadors for inclusivity in sport, and they brought so much energy, warmth and fun to the day.”
The characters also paid a visit to Brimmond School on January 29th, where Primary 1 pupils were being rewarded after receiving the school’s new ‘Shining Example’ award, an incentive to recognise classes who display school values. The class with the most tokens is rewarded with a special treat at the end of each month.
Kelly Milne, Acting Head Teacher at Brimmond School, said, “We are very proud of how all our learners have displayed our school values this month and the visit by Dee & Don was a fantastic reward for the winning class.
“The children were so excited, and the visit really helped support our messages around kindness, inclusion and celebrating everyone’s efforts in a fun and memorable way.”
Dee and Don made their debut appearance in December 2025 when they landed at Aberdeen International Airport from London.
The school visits were part of a programme of appearances for the new mascots who will be taking an active role in school activities and guest appearances at local sports and community events throughout the year.
The mascot campaign, designed with community at its core, aims to build a genuine connection with people across the city to ensure everyone, no matter age, ability or background, feels supported and included.
As a registered charity with a clear purpose, Sport Aberdeen manages 31 venues across Aberdeen and reinvests every pound generated back into the city, ensuring local people benefit directly from every success.
For more information about Sport Aberdeen and the services available, please visit www.sportaberdeen.co.uk