Self-proclaimed ‘goofy dude’ doesn’t hold back when entertaining the crowds
As most familiar with WVSU culture knows, “Stinger” is a ubiquitous presence around campus, playing a crucial role in livening up football games, entertaining fans and revving up team spirit.
In this exclusive YJ Online interview, Stinger talks about how a childhood love of the Texas Longhorns led to becoming West Virginia State’s school mascot.
Yellow Jacket: Would you say that it is a big privilege to be in your suit?
Stinger: “It’s a big privilege, because the mascot is branded everywhere on campus. It is kind of a legacy type of thing.”
YJ: How do you come up with all of those moves on the football field?
Stinger: “Honestly, it is just my personality. I am just a goofy dude.”
YJ: Do you think that plays into the role of being a mascot?
Stinger: “Yeah, people have told me that being the mascot really fits me.”
YJ: How did you get the role?
Stinger: “I asked.”
YJ: What was your first game like?
Stinger: “My very first game was in high school. When the football team was getting ready, I was, like, ‘OK, let me do something stupid.’ So, as I was walking out, I was dancing and everybody in the stadium was freaking out. That’s when I figured out I could make something out of this.”
YJ: What led to you to become the mascot, because it is a really difficult job to have?
Stinger: “When I was three, I always loved watching the Texas Longhorns games, and I saw the little bull, the bull mascot. And I was like, ‘I want to be that guy. I don’t want to be nobody else.’ He was just different.”
