Every year, a student is assigned to be our mascot, the Indian. This year, our mascot is Joe Karriker, a four-year member of the boy’s tennis team. I got the opportunity to sit down with Joe and talk to him about his role as the Indian.

When I asked Joe what made him want to become the Indian, he replied with, “Ever since Brock Hamrick brought me to a football game in middle school, I saw the Indian, and I wanted to be the Indian. Also, my best friend Ellis George was the Indian last year, and he inspired me to take up the role.” Joe stated that being the Indian actually has made him a public figure in Gaffney. “One of my favorite things is having little kids, both at the games and around town, come up to me and ask if they can have a picture…” Joe explained.

As most of us know, playing the role of the Indian requires a large amount of time spent with the varsity cheerleaders. For example, Joe has to ride with the cheerleaders to away games, and he cheers alongside of them at all of the games. I asked Joe how he felt about working alongside of the cheerleaders and he answered, “To be honest I was little scared, but once I got to know them individually, we formed a bond and have had a great time together.” Joe has done a great job so far this season as the Indian and I’m sure he will continue to do the same. Look for him on the sidelines this Friday night.