What happened: Sharon Magness Blake and Ernie Blake oversaw the live-mascot program, while Ann Judge trained and rode Thunder. Broncos owner and foundation board chair Carrie Walton Penner said the franchise plans to build on the group's legacy.
Why it matters: Thunder has served as Denver's live mascot since 1993, making the program a fixture of home-game traditions. The departures shift stewardship of that tradition ahead of the 2026 season.
By the numbers: Judge has ridden Thunder since 1998 and served as trainer since 1999.
What to watch: Denver's succession plans will determine how the Thunder Spirit program operates in 2026.