Wes the Wolf, West’s new mascot, is causing quite a stir among students on campus. But the man behind it all radiates spirit even without his mascot suit on. Senior Danny Weiner, also known as Wes at school pep rallies and games, is excited to bring The Hype as West’s new mascot.

Weiner’s school spirit and enthusiasm does not go unnoticed. Even just a quick exchange with him in the hallway can brighten anyone’s day. His contagious attitude makes him a good choice for the mascot.

“Danny has such a great personality,” junior cheerleader Olivia Roudi said. “Whenever I see him in the halls, he always tells me he can’t wait for the games. He’s so fun and he really enjoys it.”

Weiner’s illuminating spirit and passion easily make him a crowd favorite. He is always able to generate excitement in the stands, and keep this energy level up even when a game is not going well.

“The more the mascot is involved, the more students and staff will be too,” Roudi said. “He brings fun energy and the students need that.”

Weiner was interested in the mascot position because it is a chance to try something new and unconventional. To him, it means something unique.

“No one in my family has ever been a mascot,” Weiner said.“So being the school mascot brings something new to my family history.”

Staff and students alike are eager to see how having a mascot will contribute to West’s school spirit, and most believe that this contribution will go beyond measure.

“Having a mascot adds excitement and entertainment to school events,” cheerleading coach Meghann Dodd said. “I believe it acts as a face or symbol for our school spirit.”

Along with other school spirit groups such as cheerleaders and drill team, the role of the mascot is crucial to the liveliness in the stands.

“When the cheerleaders, Royales and mascot all pull the school spirit together, it’s the best,” Roudi said. “All of us doing our jobs makes all the games and pep rallies fun, and the school seems to enjoy it more.”

Dodd agrees that the mascot’s important job cannot be done alone, but Weiner is more than ready to do his part in creating a united atmosphere at West.

“When the mascot and cheerleaders work together, it really revs the crowd up,” Dodd said.

Weiner has his sights set high for this school year, and hopes that with his role as mascot, he can help start a legacy of school spirit for years to come.

“Danny has such spirit and wears the suit with pride,” Dodd said.