Louie the Little Hawk is officially a member of the cheer team and is selected when the previous mascot graduates.
How did you become the school mascot?
I became Louie when, in my freshman year ceramics class, one of my cheerleading friends told me that they had no one to be Louie! She asked if I thought her brother would be a good fit; I told her that he would be good or that I could be the mascot. I told her about how I do it for the Iowa City Public Library and other miscellaneous businesses; she then messaged the cheer coach at the time and told her about me. The next thing I knew, I was on the football field cheering!
What is your most important job as a school mascot, and why?
My most important job is to make people smile and be the literal face of the school!
My goal is that when people think about Iowa City High School, they remember Louie. Another one of my jobs is to bring the school spirit, whether that’s leading cheers or encouraging students and families to cheer and guide them.
What’s your most memorable moment being a mascot?
One of the most memorable moments I’ve ever experienced being Louie is either the 2023-24 homecoming parade or City vs. West games. I very much enjoy the homecoming parades because of all the families and students that show up. I love taking photos and interacting with people and being very extroverted, as that is not only Louie’s personality but mine also. I love the City vs. West games because of the school spirit you can feel in the air; you can see it emanating from the crowd. You just get such an adrenaline rush from it!
Is it difficult to keep your identity a secret, and why?
It’s not super hard to keep it a secret, and some people do know; however, most people who know are teachers, close friends, and family. I trust those people to keep it secret and not tell anyone. Occasionally people come up to me and ask me if I am Louie, and I simply say that I used to be him, but I don’t do it anymore. Another struggle with keeping it a secret is at sports games: students like to tap or even hit my head and ask who I am. One time someone tried taking off my head in front of a bunch of kids; thankfully, the student was unsuccessful.
What’s your biggest challenge as a mascot, and why?
My biggest challenge with being Louie is learning your limits and knowing when to take breaks to not overheat and pass out. Although I have only ever overheated a couple of times and usually have it under control, I still make sure that I take breaks at least every half hour and always have water and a handheld fan with me just in case.
How would you describe the personality of Louie?
Louie is a team player, a scholar, thoughtful, and a leader. He sets the tone for the enthusiasm at the school that leads. He is a very approachable and lovable mascot, and he wants to get to know all types of people, no matter who they are.
What’s your favorite snack post-performance?
My favorite post-performance snack is a scoop of Monster cookie ice cream on a cake cone from Heyn’s or a HUGE grape popsicle with a glass of cold water.
What is your favorite place at school, and why?
My favorite place in City High is the football field. I love it because of the classic City High Friday night football games; there is so much energy and passion on that field, not only with football but [also with] all the fans and their school spirit!
