Wayne State College’s mascot, Willy the Wildcat, continues to steal the hearts of current students and alumnae.
An anonymous student who has played the role of Willy shared his insights about what it’s like to walk in the footsteps of WSC’s mascot. “My overall experience was positive,” the student said. “It was my first time in a mascot costume, so it was cool to be the ‘face’ of the school.’” Playing this role allowed the student to create lasting memories with the student body, particularly with incoming freshmen. “My favorite part was definitely connecting with them. We look back at those pictures and remember just how awesome it was.”
Being Willy doesn’t come without its challenges; however, the student noted the role’s physical demands. “The most challenging part was the endurance it took. I had to be Willy for maybe an hour daily, and it wasn’t always comfortable. Despite this, the honor of representing the Wildcat brand was rewarding. “It was great to be associated with the Wildcat logo in a way that was more than just simply being a student. I got to be a different type of ambassador, arguably the most recognizable. It was a great way to serve my school.”
When asked if they would play this role again, the student happily said, “I would one hundred percent do it again. Overall, it was a wonderful experience, and I would encourage others to seek it out as well.”
Willy’s impact resonates beyond the costume. A student said Willy as “someone who brings so much joy to campus,” while another said, “Willy is the OG wildcat and someone who unites our college together.” The mystery of Willy continues to thrive and portray the spirit of WSC.
Willy the Wildcat is an integral role on campus, and WSC would not be the same without him.
Although the identity behind Willy remains a mystery, the happiness they bring WSC is clear. Willy continues be an icon of WSC, whether that be uniting past and present students or keeping the Wildcat legacy alive.
