From posing for pictures with kids to leading chants with the SoFlo Rodeo, he’s the face of USF’s spirit.
But inside the fur suit, there isn’t just one Rocky D. Bull – there’s a team of students who dedicate their time and energy to bringing the beloved USF mascot to life.
One student, who is currently under the fur suit as Rocky, didn’t plan on becoming the figure.
Will Thrasher, who studies biomedical sciences, said his journey to becoming the mascot started as a bet with a friend.
“He gave me a look like, ‘I bet you 10 bucks you won’t send an email and see what happens’” Thrasher said. “And I took him up on it, and I sent an email to our current coach, and got involved and went to a tryout.”
What started as a bet, has turned into a memorable college life. Now a senior, Thrasher is the face – or horns – of USF’s spirit.
Rockin’ in the Free World
Throughout the years, Rocky has become a staple of culture at USF, making his presence known at many events on campus.
Since 1962, USF has had a number of iterations of cattle mascots, starting with the Golden Brahman.
Rocky was first trademarked in 1974 and became the university’s mascot about a decade later. The Rocky most students know today was unveiled in 2003.
The mascot’s modern look demands more than just enthusiasm – it demands physical endurance.
Former Rocky Eliz Rodriguez, who now works in community engagement supporting grassroots initiatives for teams in the Tampa Bay area, learned that lesson the hard way.
“I passed out a few times at football games,” Rodriguez said. “You just hydrate, train and push through.”
The students who wear the suit commit to hours of training to ensure the mascot maintains his “larger-than-life” personality.
The suit itself is another challenge. Performing in Florida’s heat, especially at outdoor games, takes a physical toll.
“People always ask, ‘Is it hot in there?’” Thrasher said. “I’m like, ‘Dude, it’s a fur costume in Tampa.’ It’s not air-conditioned. You just train for it.”
The team juggles a packed schedule, attending everything from on-campus events to community appearances.
Each student must sign up for a set number of events per semester, ensuring the mascot remains a constant presence for USF Athletics.
Rodriguez said the program took a big chunk of time.
“I feel you spent roughly at least 30 hours in in some sort of way, shape or form, like with Rocky each week,” he said.
Bulls’ beyond the field
For those who take on the role, Rocky is more than a character – it’s an experience that creates lasting memories.
Thrasher traveled with the football team to Tuscaloosa for USF’s game against Alabama in 2024, describing it as a “dream come true.”
He also got to be part of history during the groundbreaking ceremony for USF’s new on-campus stadium last November.
Rodriguez, on the other hand, found some of his best moments off the field.
“I loved doing the wedding events,” he said. “And I think that’s an a-ha moment where it clicked, where you could be successful and not necessarily have a nine to five job.”
The Bulls who helped bring Rocky to life were rewarded with scholarships.
Rodriguez said during his time on the team, students were given scholarships up to $2,000 based on how frequently they would participate in events as Rocky.
From student to mascot
While the team members may change, the Rocky persona stays the same, thanks to careful training and mentorship.
Part of that consistency comes from guidelines on how Rocky should behave. The team follows a handbook outlining mannerisms, poses and even how Rocky walks.
For some the ability to perform came easy.
Former Rocky Mikayla Friday, who performed from 2021 to 2023, said her experience as a cheerleader and gymnast made the transition smoother.
“I had experience with crowd engagement,” Friday said.
Rocky thrives off crowd engagement, amping up crowds at events across USF.
Yet, the challenge of making Rocky a reality hit close to home for students donning the suit.
“Once you get in that suit and see the smiles,” Thrasher said. “Any negative energy you bring in just drops.”
CORRECTION: Rocky was first trademarked in 1974 and USF’s original mascot was called the Golden Brahman. A previous version of this story stated otherwise.
Mithil Vyas is a sports writer for The Oracle. He’s a Integrated Public Relations and Advertising major and started writing for The Oracle in the fall of 2024. He is looking to be a NFL reporter and analyst in the future, hopefully for the Minnesota Vikings. Reach him at mvyas@usf.edu.
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