- Where are you from?
You can say Cortland, New York. I was hatched back in 1849 down near the Tioughnioga River on a cold winter morning in early February where my mom and dad named me Blaze. You can trace my ancestors back to the Isle of Arran in the Firth of Clyde off the west coast of Scotland. Less than 100 miles from Loch Ness. And we all know who hangs out there. Yes, she is a distance relative, from the Leviathan side of the family as opposed to the Behemoth side. But that’s a story for another time.
- How many teams do you represent?
Twenty-five varsity teams in all, 14 women’s and 11 men’s.
- How were you chosen to be the school mascot?
Cortland decided to make a move from the old Mules name into something more ferocious. Now, I understand mules can kick pretty good when they get their dander up, but I’d like to think a red dragon packed more punch. And firepower. So, I go to the tryout where all kinds of mascots were looking to make the grade and the fur was flying. I saw birds, jungle animals, cats, dogs, even some fruit – I think they were the underwear guys. Anyway, I get my shot in front of the committee and, pardon the pun, I slay them. The rest is history and history yet to be made.
- Do you have any friends that are mascots?
I hang out with some pretty cool sock puppets on occasion but that’s about it.
- What is your favorite campus event?
Now I know most people would expect me to say the Cortaca Jug, which is the annual football game between Cortland and Ithaca. And sure, that’s a great time with thousands of fans. But I love all of the home sporting events – from the gymnastics meets where I show off my own floor routine to lacrosse where I’ve been known to “fire” a few shots into the goal at halftime. I am a little careful at the swim meets, though. I don’t want to make the water boil when I start breathing fire. And I always love making that headfirst slide into home plate at baseball or softball. The umps always call me “safe.” The sports are all great at Cortland. But believe it or not, my favorite event is commencement. It’s such a great thing to see the student-athletes get their diplomas after four years of sacrifice on the field, in the gym and in the classroom.
- What is your favorite food?
This one is pretty tough to narrow down. Anything fire-grilled, smoked salmon, smoked gouda…What? A dragon can eat dairy? Fiery hot Buffalo chicken wings…Creme brulee – I brown the top myself. An occasional knight. Yummy. I am a dragon after all. But when it comes down to it, my go-to is smoked andouille sausage with red beans and rice and a whole lot of cayenne red pepper sauce. Smoking hot with plenty of bite.
- What is your favorite television or movie animal?
Most people think Godzilla. Not so. It’s Crocodile Dundee. How great is it that a crocodile helps people in New York City? Oh wait, I’ve just been told that Crocodile Dundee is a man. Okay, it has to be Puss in Boots from the Shrek movies. Seriously, when he makes his eyes real big, I lose it.
- What do you like to do for fun?
Catching snowflakes on my tongue. Wait a second. I've never been able to do it because they melt before I can catch one. Also, I'm a welder and I don't need no stinking acetylene torch. And finally, I'm Gene Simmons' stunt double and stand-in when Kiss is on tour. After all we are about the same age…
- What’s it like to be a mascot?
You ever see those Hollywood stars roll up in a limo on Oscar night? That’s it, right there. Pow. Except I’m a better dresser.
- What do you consider the ideal fan?
Let me use words:
Rabid.
Excited.
Dependable.
Dedicated.
Respectful.
Avid.
Gracious in victory and defeat.
Outspoken.
Nice.
Stimulated.
And ones that don’t step on my tail making me accidentally breathe fire. That’s always a bonus! |
- Where are you from?
New Paltz, N.Y.
- How many teams do you represent?
15
- How were you chosen to be school mascot?
The Hawk is a regional native and is part of campus life and lore. A Hawk soars high above the ground to seek opportunities, and a Hawk is a bird of prey.
- Do you have any friends that are mascots?
The Buffalo State Bengal, the Fredonia Blue Devil, the Geneseo Blue Knight, the Brockport Golden Eagle, the Oswego Laker, the Cortland Red Dragon, the Plattsburgh Cardinal, the Potsdam Bear and the Oneonta Red Dragon. Occasionally, the Hawk mingles with the Morrisville State Mustang.
- What is your favorite campus event?
It’s too hard to choose—Hugo the Hawk enjoys every team and club equally at New Paltz.
- What is your favorite food?
Pizza and hot dogs from the Half Court concession stand!
- What is your favorite television or movie animal?
My favorite television animal is Henery Hawk from Looney Tunes.
- What do you like to do for fun?
I enjoy watching the Hawk athletic teams in action!
- What’s it like to be a mascot?
It’s very rewarding knowing that being a Hawk positively influences New Paltz student-athletes.
- What do you consider the ideal fan?
The ideal fan roots for the Hawks and creates a positive atmosphere by not taunting or baiting opponents.
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