At halftime of this Saturday's football game (October 26) against Samford, Wofford Sports Marketing will announce the retirement of Blitz II ("Ayeryel") as the on-the-field live Boston Terrier mascot effective at the end of the 2013 Wofford football season. Ayeryel will also be presented with an honorary Wofford letter for her service to the College during the halftime ceremony.
Blitz II, known six days a week as "Ayeryel," began her role as the Wofford mascot as a 'walk-on' substitute for the original Blitz at South Carolina on September 20, 2008. When Blitz I ("Ka-Dee") suddenly passed away on October 9, 2008, Ayeryel stepped in to the interim role for the remainder of the season. She took over as the second official mascot of the Wofford athletic department at the beginning of the 2009 football season and thus also assumed the name of Blitz II on the sidelines.
During her tenure, Blitz II, has roamed the sidelines for part of six football seasons and, to date, two Southern Conference championship season – just like her predecessor.
Over the last four years, the live mascot has received additional attention as the leader of the "Terrier Walk" which takes place 40 minutes prior to kickoff of every home game. Blitz II leads the parade that includes the other Wofford mascots, Boss and Terri, along with the cheerleaders, dance team and guest marching band, in front of the Gibbs Stadium plaza, through the Verandah Lot and onto the field. The unique spelling of Ayeryel's name has a Wofford connection, as it is the combination of head football coach Mike Ayers last name and the word "yell".
"Ayeryel has been a terrific ambassador for Wofford," said associate athletic director for marketing Lenny Mathis. "People are attracted to her and she enjoys the attention. That's really what we look for in a mascot, a boston that is a leader and enjoys and understands the moment. That may sound odd, but we see her get excited every game. Just like her predecessor, when it's gameday, she knows it."
However, with Ayeryel approaching 8 years old, it was agreed over the summer that this would be Ayeryel's final season. By announcing her retirement before season's end, fans are encouraged to take these upcoming opportunities to show their love for our number one boston these last five plus years.
This Wofford tradition is not advanced without the support of wonderful owners and Wofford thanks Ayeryel's owner, Heather Rogers '03 of Columbia, SC, for her unwavering support.
SELECTING THE NEXT WOFFORD LIVE MASCOT
Wofford Sports Marketing will begin the search for the next official mascot of the program immediately and supporters are asked to strictly follow these guidelines to be considered.
· Nominated dogs must be pure bred boston terriers that are black and white in color.
· All nominated bostons may not be intimidated by large groups of people, strangers, noise and must be especially good with children.
· Being part of the Wofford mascot tradition is an honor to represent the College. Owners must be Wofford graduates, parents or donors to the College.
· No special incentives are provided to the owners for participating.
· The mascot is required to attend all home Wofford football games with no exception and as many road contests as feasible.
Nominations should be submitted by email (including one (1) photo) to associate athletic director for marketing, Lenny Mathis, by email only at MathisLD@wofford.edu. Nominations will be taken through November 23rd. Absolutely no fan should bring their dog to a future home Wofford athletic event without the expressed written consent of Wofford Sports Marketing.
