By Liz Spano, Student Reporter

Behind a mysterious mask of fur, whiskers and a perpetually smiling face, Willie the Wildcat is known everywhere around campus and is a student just like you.

Tryouts for Willie the Wildcat, ACU’s feline mascot, will take place soon. The role of mascot involves making appearances and energizing and interacting with the crowd at basketball, football and volleyball games, as well as other special university events on and off campus, said Jared Mosley, director of athletics and compliance coordinator. The position typically is filled by two students and offers up to a $500 scholarship.

“We want somebody who can have energy,” Mosley said. “We want someone who can find ways to engage the crowd, be lively and entertain.”

Tryouts were postponed this week and will be scheduled at a later date, so more students have an opportunity to apply, Mosley said.

After turning in an application, available in the Teague Athletic Center, students will try out in costume in the Mabee Library Auditorium. They will have the opportunity to meet the judges and perform a 30-second to one-minute skit or routine. Judges then will decide whether the student has the personality and energy level to fulfill the role of Willie.

“I think it’s a great opportunity for anybody looking to get involved on campus,” Mosley said. “It’s also. a fun thing to do, to be the mascot and to play a role and be able to energize crowds and get excited about athletic events or alumni events.”

Marilee Motes, senior advertising/public relations major from Arlington, shared the role of Willie this season with another student who wishes to remain anonymous to preserve the tradition. Motes, however, who will be graduating this year and passing the Willie suit to another student, did not mind sharing her experience as ACU’s mascot.

“It was exhilarating; I loved it,” Motes said. “Every time I got in the suit, it wasn’t me anymore – it was Willie the Wildcat. I wasn’t even aware of other people around me; I just had fun and tried to get everybody excited and be cheerful.”

Motes said she played Willie at everything from sports events to elementary school carnivals, but her favorite part about being Willie was going to the football games.

“In Texas, football is a big thing,” Motes said. “The crowd is already so lively, so football games are an event in themselves, and Willie is kind of a nice addition to the show.”

Motes said when she is dressed up as Willie, she does a lot of dancing, cheers and also interacts with children in the crowd.

In addition to enthusiasm and energy, Motes suggests those trying out for Willie this season simply, “put your Willie face on.”

“It takes charisma and a positive attitude,” she said.