Students have an opportunity to see if they have what it takes to be the next UD tradition and mascot, Rudy Flyer.

The role of Rudy is open to any full-time student or incoming freshman that has been accepted to UD for fall 2011. Tryouts will take place Saturday, Feb. 20, from 11-1 p.m. in the Frericks gymnasium. Candidates will meet the graduating Rudys and members of the athletics staff to discuss roles and expectations of the mascot and learn physical characteristics and behaviors of Rudy.

There is little students can do to prepare for this tryout, though. One of the current Rudy Flyers, senior Andrew Gerbetz, said once the basic movements have been learned, everything else Rudy does is in reaction to the environment.

"The best practice is just walking around in the suit," he said. "I have strolled around campus or gone to the Rec a few times just for fun."

Gerbetz said that being able to go up to fans of all kinds to promote spirit may at first seem uncomfortable but after awhile becomes habit. For him, it's making sure he doesn't get too caught up in the game.

"People who know me wouldn't consider me a trash talker," he said.

But while wearing the Rudy suit, he has taken an opposing fan's hat and used it to shine Rudy's big boots.

"Nobody can get mad at a mascot for doing that!" he said.

According to Gerbetz, if he were to choose a way to practice for Rudy, he would focus on endurance workouts. Due to the constant sweating in the suit, it is important to be in good physical shape to avoid dehydration.

"To compare the workout that I get at a basketball game, it is like working out on a StairMaster, in a sauna, with a few layers of sweatshirts on, all while wearing a football helmet," Gerbetz said. "I have high fived and chest bumped with a lot of UD players and most of them don't even know who I am."

Graduating senior and another current Rudy Flyer Emily Schenck said portraying Rudy was a challenge as a female.

"I was able to do something that most women don't - kneel down and propose to a loving fan just to get a laugh," she said.

Little practice is required to be Rudy, Schenck said. The focus is on cheering from the heart.

Constant arm waving, dancing and cheering can be tiring for anyone but even more so when he or she is inside of a fully-clothed mascot suit.

"Why do I do it?" she said. "Because I live to put a smile on faces and make a fool out of myself with the satisfaction of knowing that my identity is a mystery."

Those interested should bring proof of enrollment at UD (current class list or letter of acceptance for incoming freshmen), student ID, insurance information and comfortable clothes. Candidates will be moving around and physically acting out the character of Rudy.

For more information contact Andrew Gerbetz at agerbetz@gmail.com.