CMU's beloved live mascot Rowdy II took on a year full of memorable firsts as he stepped into his role as the newest Maverick.
Colorado Mesa University’s (CMU) favorite animal had numerous firsts this year as he stormed the field for each football game and even celebrated his first Homecoming week. The Rowdy Wrangler team has been working diligently to prepare Rowdy II for his first year as the lead Maverick for CMU.
Late last year, CMU students and the Wrangler team selected our new live mascot out of multiple quality candidates. With Rowdy II spending his summer on a rural farm in Eastern Colorado, he was preparing to remain calm and rise to the occasions he was presented with. A packed season opener was his first challenge. On September 6, CMU played Eastern New Mexico University and came away with a 28-7 win. Rowdy II put all his training to the test and stormed the field, rumbling for students and fans in attendance. The environment was electric, and the Rowdy Wrangler team encourages students to take full advantage of Rowdy II being kind, tame and calm.
“For me, it feels like a job well done. We have been training him for months now, and it all led up to that first run. We are just happy it looked good and went well,” President of the Rowdy Wrangler team Colby Malpass said. “He really likes to run, so when we got rolling, he took off.”
This enthusiasm is important to the new, long-lasting journey of Rowdy II’s career. Homecoming week sparked a different side of Rowdy II as it was his first true interaction with students and the community. Rowdy II and his Wranglers attended the Timberline BBQ on Thursday, CMU’s Carnival on Friday and finished the week running onto the field for his favorite people.
“Rowdy did great for his first Homecoming. He was so excited to meet everyone, and everyone was excited to see him. He felt right at home, licking hands and taking naps through all the events,” Rowdy Wrangler Vice President Sydney Fonte said. “And when he got to run with the trustees at the football game, they were all very impressed with his demeanor and speed.”
