After watching Benny the Bison at the winter pep rally, students had questions about his identity. The Beachcomber did a series of interviews to investigate our mysterious mascot.

Athletic Director Ryan Peters explained that Benny the Bison has been the school’s mascot for 25 to 30 years.

“Benny the Bison’s job is to get the fans excited. He makes people feel good and have fun at the games,” said Peters.

Senior Matthew Carpenter said, “I am 75% sure that Benny the Bison is Mr. Chase, because he has that Bison force.”

“Benny the Bison changes all the time,” said Junior Eric Novice, who acknowledged wearing the Benny costume at a robotics competition. “It is hot and hard to see through,” said Novice.

“I think it is Dean Granot,” said Senior Chris Lardie, “because the way that Benny the Bison acts totally fits him.”

Freshman Nate Hamilton also thinks Dean Granot is under the Bison costume. “Dean is funny and crazy, which is perfect for Benny the Bison,” said Hamilton.

Senior Bruce Nichols agrees.  “Dean shows the most pride. He is very outgoing and funny and he is the best person to represent Beachwood.”

Dean Granot, a sophomore, did not confirm or deny being Benny. “I don’t think I am Benny the Bison,” he said.  Granot continued, “If I was, which I am probably not, it would be fun to be the Benny the Bison.”

Peters said, “The [person who wears the costume] is random and could change every day, week, month or year.  The athletic department tries to keep it as secret as possible.” Peters continued, “The person could be a staff or a student, male or female.”

The costume is not easy to maintain. According to Peters, “The costume is washed twice a year at an athletic laundry house that specialize in washing and fixing mascot costumes.”

How does one become Benny the Bison? Peters said, “To be Benny the Bison, a student needs to ask for it and do some interviews… audition. Staff members don’t have to audition.”