MASCOT PROFILE

Hugo the Hawk

SUNY New Paltz

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1. Where are you from?
   I was born in a nest overlooking Lake Minnewaska in the majestic Shawangunk Mountains of New Paltz. After I learned to fly, I decided to go to the New Paltz campus to look for some squirrels to eat. I’ve been here ever since!
2. How many teams do you represent?
   15.
3. How were you chosen to be school mascot?
   It was between me and a rabbit. So I ate the rabbit.
4. Do you have any friends that are mascots?
   I ate them, too.
   
5. What is your favorite campus event?
   The SUNY Mascot Madness contest, of course!
6. What is your favorite New York State destination?
   The Catskill Mountains. I’m a bird, so I always have the best view. And there are so many tasty critters for me to munch on!
7. What is your favorite Broadway play?
   “Bye-Bye Birdie.”
8. What do you consider the ideal fan?
   Anyone who comes out to games and roots for the Hawks is an ideal fan. But I admit I play favorites – specifically, the ones who bring me tasty snakes to eat during halftime.
9. What’s it like to be a mascot?
   Well, as a hawk, I’m used to animals running away when they see me coming. But these humans at New Paltz sure know how to make a bird feel special. I love the attention and I love supporting the New Paltz Hawks!
10. What do you like to do for fun?
    I like to cook and experiment with recipes. I asked the folks at Hugo’s fine dining restaurant here on campus if they would consider putting my delicious deep-fried mouse nuggets with lizard chutney on the menu. I can’t believe they turned me down!