On Saturday, Feb. 29, Drury’s mascot, Pouncer, was unmasked. Chase Worley revealed his identity following senior night during Homecoming festivities. The day became even more special as Worley was also announced as Drury’s Homecoming royalty. The Mirror sat down with Pouncer, the Homecoming king, to gain insight into the life of Drury’s mascot.  

Worley has been Pouncer for the past three years. While he lived his double life, Worley learned a bit more about himself.  

“I think this role has taught me to open up as a person. When I came to Drury, I was a very introverted person. After becoming Pouncer, it really helped me open up and become an even better person. It helped me come out of that shell that I was put in in high school,” Worley said.  

Life as Pouncer has its ups and downs. Interacting with the crowd can be rewarding. Sometimes fans can get a bit touchy. Some may think the suit would be uncomfortable but Worley assured us that it’s not too bad. 

“Sometimes the heat and sweat does get to me. It helps to drink lots of water and take breaks when I’m really tired or hot during a double header,” Worley continued. “I think my favorite story is just hearing the wild things that people (DU students) say at the games. My favorite though is when I got in trouble by my cheer coach during the NCAA Regional Game against Grand Valley last March. I was too close to the court, and I was shaking my butt. Something I do dislike about being Pouncer is the screaming/mean kids that tug on my tail.” 

On Saturday, Worley left behind his secret identity as Pouncer but he gained a new title as Homecoming king. With crown in hand, he lifted his mask to the crowd.  

“I never thought in a million years that I’d be a mascot, let alone Homecoming king. When I revealed myself and the entire ‘O’ erupted with cheers, I just got chills all over my body. To bring joy to so many people and so many kids at the basketball games is just awesome.” 

With Worley’s crowning and Pouncer’s unmasking, it’s clear that the Drury community adores both the mascot and the student who has given so much to our Drury family.

Article by Ciera DuBan