Concordia-Chicago’s beloved mascot, Charlie T., is usually a cat of few words. We were lucky enough to give Cougar fans a peek behind the proverbial curtain with this exclusive interview.
1. You’ve had a lot of different looks over the years. Which one is your favorite? My current style is the best, in my humble opinion. Though I have a soft spot for my younger days when my head was constructed from papier-mâché and I wore a sweet zip-up jacket—gotta love the homemade look.
2. Tell us about how CUC student-athletes show teamwork and sportsmanship. I am proud to represent student-athletes who stand tall for the University values of Christian Faith, the Individual, Excellence, Integrity and Service in all they do. Cougar athletes are a family on and off the field (or court)! During their time on campus, they have countless opportunities for both athletic skill development and personal growth, so they are well prepared for life after sports.
3. Which mascot is your biggest rival? It’s hard to choose just one, but I will say, I can’t wait to dance off against Freddy the Falcon (Concordia-Wisconsin), Corky the Cardinal (Concordia-Ann Arbor) and Bruiser the Bulldog (Concordia-Nebraska) at the Concordia Invitational Tournament (CIT) this year!
4. What do you do for fun, when you’re not cheering on our teams? Pounce on unsuspecting freshmen, take cat naps in the sun, and of course, work on my dance moves.
5. What’s your favorite Chicago sports venue? I’m partial to the United Center, where the Bulls and Blackhawks play, because I can take the CTA Green Line directly there in 20 minutes!
6. What does the “T” stand for in your middle initial? “The.” Really! But here is a little back story: when I was adopted, the University was called Concordia Teachers College (CTC). The same initials as Charlie The Cougar. Get it?
7. What’s the best way for students, alumni and friends to support CUC Athletics? Come to a game! If you don’t live near campus, check the away game schedules to see if the Cougars are coming to a town near you. We’ve got a full slate of competitions this spring: men’s and women’s basketball, men’s volleyball, men’s tennis, STUNT, baseball, softball, and track & field. Our student-athletes really appreciate the support! You can also attend the Athletic Hall of Fame banquet each fall, or give to our athletic programs anytime. Hope to see you at a game soon!