Unravelling the myth of the Ikey Tiger
- Details
- Published on Saturday, 18 February 2012 17:08
- Written by Carla de Klerk
The Ikey Tiger is more than just a pretty face on the sidelines taking pictures with blonde girls in shorts. Inside those big, shiny kitty-cat eyes is an intellectual, passionate about merely one thing: the beautiful game. The beautiful game that stems from the Ikey rugby team.
There have been many myths about this awe-inspiring creature dressed in rugby jerseys and shorts. It has been said the Tiger walked the “long walk”, hand in hand with the honourable Nelson Mandela, three times.
I also heard that without the strong, muscular biceps of the Tiger, John Smit would not have been able to lift the William Webb-Ellis trophy above his shoulders a few years ago. It may also be true that it was indeed the Tiger, not Mark Shuttleworth, who was the first Ikey to enter space.
As you can see, it is high time to get the low down from the one and only legend, the Ikey Tiger himself, to set some facts straight. It would also do the freshers some good to learn about his heritage, as the Tiger deserves respect for the magical creature he is...
What do you study, and what year are you?
I study the growth of the grass on the Green Mile, the fine technique with which the Ikeys pass the ball to one another, and the sleek contours of the Varsity Cup trophy. It is invigorating, it is like studying at the school of life; one is forever studying, forever learning - I have been loyal to the Ikeys for generations.
How did you get the job? I heard the old Tiger graduated...
This is not a job, this is a calling, I left mum and pops as a young cub to fulfil my destiny as it is written in the stars.
What does the position of “Ikey Tiger” entail?
Apart from being awesome?
What role does the Ikey Tiger fulfil for UCT Sports?
I pledge to support all who wish to strive for victory in the name of A-you! A-you! A-you Cee Tee!.
Do other mascots ever get violent, or are you the one with the claws?
Let’s be honest, a squirrel isn’t much of a contest.
Any interesting experiences on the job?
I’ve had a number of proposals. Girls, guys, squirrels, you name it, they all want a piece of me.
How do you survive the heat in the suit?
Tigers do not feel extremities. [Or, presumably, extremes. – Ed.] We are invincible, fearless, indestructible.
Is it okay to talk in the suit?
No, the Tiger has no words. My thoughts supersede the capacity of human comprehension. It’s both a gift and a curse.
Do you travel with the team to all the games?
I am one with the team. A singular unit. A bonded soul... Yes, the Tiger travels with the team wherever they may be – on the field, off the field, Tin Roof...
Do you do training to be able to keep up with the Tiger?
Does Batman train? Does Chuck Norris bleed? I am my own league of super-species. Training not required.
What tips do you have for other students that are wide-eyed dreaming of also becoming the Tiger one day?
In order to stand a chance as the Ikey Tiger, they will have to defeat me to assume the honoured position. I do not recommend that people take on this death-defying challenge. But those who are bold enough to seek my title will only succeed if they are able to uncover my kryptonite (*hint: unassuming freshers, pre-first-year spread). The calling must be strong in order to seize the opportunity. I have yet to be defeated.