What would Benny do? That’s the question facing students auditioning to be the Oregon State University mascot.

On Monday night, only one dedicated OSU sports fan tried out, but at least three more are expected tonight.

Ryan Hoefer, a sophomore majoring in construction engineering management, gave his best case for why he should be a Benny.

Hoefer answered questions about his background, and talked about his previous experience as a mascot for Grants Pass High School, before donning Benny’s trademark beaver costume.

“It was great. You have to get used to not being able to see to the sides. You have tunnel vision. And you’re bigger than your body normally is. But it was really fun,” Hoefer said.

A panel of student judges evaluated his performance. They gave Hoefer scenarios, and asked how Benny would react.

“It’s a packed home game at Gill Coliseum, and the score is tied with five seconds left on the clock. What do you do?” posed RJ Sohler, a senior business marketing major.

Hoefer stomped on the floor, and ran in front of the empty bleachers, waving his hands to rev up the imaginary crowd.

Patrick Ostrom, a freshman

business student, Daniel Koza, a senior biology major, and Erik Olson, a senior majoring in business marketing, offered Hoefer advice on shooting baskets from half court, covering Benny’s eyes when referees make bad calls, and cupping the beaver’s ears to encourage the crowd to cheer louder.

Being Benny requires exaggerated, animated movements, lots of school spirit and physical stamina to endure the hot, heavy costume. Being able to do a dance move called “The Worm” also helps.

Denise Cloud, assistant cheerleading coach, and Lori Debord, head dance team coach, watched as Hoefer performed a hip hop routine in the beaver suit.

“I thought it was great. I think he’s enthusiastic about being Benny,” Cloud said.

Debord, a former Blazers dancer, decided to try the costume on for herself. After five minutes of rigorous dancing, she gained a new appreciation for what Benny does.

“It was fun, but exhausting and hot. You need to be physically fit,” Debord said.

There are four Bennys. OSU is looking to select a few more. Tryout organizers said they could take none or all of this week’s applicants, depending on their skill levels.

Perks of being Benny include great seats at sporting events, traveling with teams to some away games, performing at private parties and a small book scholarship for returning mascots.

Male and female OSU students between 5-feet-4 and 6-feet tall are encouraged to apply.

Since those selected as mascots are not supposed to reveal their Benny identities, OSU fans may never know if Hoefer is chosen to wear the famous beaver costume.

Hoefer has high hopes, saying his fun personality and dance skills give him an advantage over the competition.

“I’ve always enjoyed watching (Benny). And it’s kind of my personality to be out there and goofy and exciting,” Hoefer said.

Mary Ann Albright covers higher education. She can be reached at maryann.albright@lee.net or 758-9518.