Vitals

Name: Robert "Bob" Kolstad
Height:
Weight:
Major:
Year: Senior
# of Years Played: 3
Hometown: Madison, WI
Number: 99
Phrase:

Real-Life Hodag Becomes Team Mascot.
*Mixed Feelings From Ultimate Community

The Wisconsin Hodags are an Ultimate team well known for their tenacious defense, chilly offense, and blue-collar attitude. Lately, however, they haven't been drawing attention for their style of play, but rather for the real-life namesake beast patrolling their sideline, and occasionally playing.

"I think it's great," says Jason Ludden, defensive specialist and yeti look-alike. "Think about it, we are the Hodags, and now we have an actual Hodag playing on our team. It pumps me up."

Others don't necessarily share his views. The creature is far from being domesticated, and has been known to exhibit overly aggressive behaviors, despite its low-key nickname, Bob.

"We now have two confirmed reports of this monster breaking an opponent's limb during a game. We fully support team mascots, but this one may belong caged and "tranquilized" on the sidelines, not suited up and ready to play," said Lyn Debevoise, UPA college director. "The UPA is searching its bylaws for any precedence, but something may have to be done. Who knows what this Hodag will break next."

The team itself shares mixed feelings, and having the Hodag involves give and take. It seems he eats what he wants, when he wants to. "We love having Bob on the team, he does some crazy things out on the field, and gets people pumped up on the sidelines. But sometimes it's easy to forget that he's a semi-domesticated monster. Last time I tried to feed him, I nearly ended up without a right hand," said Zach Morrison, Hodag co-captain.

Despite worries and doubts, Bob the Hodag seems here to stay, at least for another year. Most of the team sentiment can be summed up in Hector Valdivia's opinion. "I love having him on the team. He's spirited, a great player, and good athlete. Plus, you never know who he'll hurt next."

By Hh

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