4 questions for Riptide

When Riptide took to the field for the first game of the 2015-2016 season, everyone was amazed by his new feather-do and new jersey. See what Riptide had to say about his updated appearance in this rare interview with the pelican beloved by Green Wave fans.

Insider: Green Wave fans noticed that you are sporting a new look this season. Tell us about your makeover.

Riptide: I did a lot of working out over the summer. All those days in the gym really paid off. I also got a slick new uniform to match the team. I think that sends an important message that I"m really part of things. You probably noticed I"ve gotten rid of some of my feathers. Well, it"s hot outside, and I don"t do much flying anyway.

Insider: Which game are you most looking forward to? Why?

Riptide: I love going to all the games. That"s why I took the gig. But if I had to pick one, it would be the homecoming game against UConn. There are so many enthusiastic students and alumni present for homecoming, and there"s nothing I like more than meeting the fans. Homecoming is my favorite.

Insider: How is your relationship with other mascots? Do you usually show sportsmanship, like the players do, by shaking hands before or after the game?

Riptide: I like the other mascots. They all want the same thing I do, and that"s to entertain the fans — of their own team, of course. I don"t always get to meet the other mascot, but I enjoy it when I do. I have even done events with Pierre the Wolf from Loyola.

Insider: What do you do on your days off?

Riptide: The chiseled body you see on the field doesn"t just happen on its own, so there is lots of exercising. Since I don"t actually fly, travelling can be tough. I"m usually somewhere near water trying to beat the heat. If not, you can find me around campus doing my favorite thing — meeting people.

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