In the storied tradition of the University of South Carolina, the heartbeat of the campus doesn’t come from just football touchdowns, basketball buzzer-beaters, or baseball home runs. It pulses from the people who bring the Gamecock spirit to life—those who embody what it means to be a part of something greater than themselves. This year, the University proudly introduces and congratulates two such remarkable individuals: Nicole Hurley and John Sutay. You may know them more intimately, or perhaps more joyously, as the human embodiments behind one of the most iconic mascots in college sports—Cocky.
Their story is not just one of donning a suit or firing up a crowd. It’s one of dedication, unseen sacrifice, and an undying love for the Gamecocks. Through their time in the feathers, Nicole and John brought smiles to children’s faces, pumped up sold-out arenas, danced with fans at tailgates, and stood resilient as symbols of hope, joy, and unity. They weren’t just portraying Cocky; they were living Cocky.
For those unfamiliar with what it takes to be Cocky, it is no small feat. This isn’t a role you take on lightly. It requires physical stamina, emotional intelligence, endless creativity, and, perhaps most importantly, a heart completely sold out for the University of South Carolina. Every high-five at a hospital visit, every sideline sprint at Williams-Brice Stadium, and every photo with young fans at Colonial Life Arena requires passion and presence. To step into Cocky’s shoes is to become a walking emblem of everything USC stands for—resilience, pride, and unbreakable school spirit.
Nicole Hurley, a student whose commitment to excellence shines far beyond the field, brought her own unique spark to the role. Whether leading the Gamecock faithful during nail-biting moments or bringing calm and comfort during community outreach events, Nicole’s presence was felt deeply. Her performances were full of personality, wit, and emotion—traits that lifted Cocky from being just a mascot to being a trusted friend to thousands of fans.
Behind the scenes, Nicole put in hours upon hours to perfect her portrayal. The movements had to be just right, the body language expressive enough to convey an entire range of emotions, and the comedic timing spot on. Her dedication to not only entertaining fans but connecting with them transformed game day moments into lifelong memories. She didn’t just wear the beak—she carried the legacy.
John Sutay, equally deserving of praise, brought a distinct brand of energy and charisma to the character. With an innate ability to read the crowd and light up any venue, John was magnetic. Whether interacting with children, rallying the student section, or dancing center stage at halftime, he infused Cocky with spirit and soul. John’s tenure added another chapter to Cocky’s legend—one that featured humor, heart, and unmatched dedication.
But the impact John made can’t be measured solely by stadium roars or viral dance clips. Like Nicole, he was part of a larger mission—to uplift the Gamecock family, to make each event more memorable, and to represent the university with dignity and flair. And he did so while balancing the intense demands of student life, proving that greatness can be both public and quiet.
Together, Nicole and John did more than perform; they collaborated. They supported one another, practiced relentlessly, and shared a commitment to making Cocky a unifying figure for the Gamecock nation. Their partnership is a testament to what teamwork, trust, and shared passion can achieve. Both approached their time in the suit with humility and reverence, always recognizing that they were stewards of a treasured tradition that began long before them and would continue long after.
Ask anyone who crossed paths with them during their time as Cocky—athletes, coaches, fans, children, or fellow students—and you’ll hear the same thing: they felt the love. That’s what makes Nicole and John special. Their influence reached far beyond game day. It seeped into classrooms, community events, and one-on-one interactions. They made Cocky real, personal, and impactful.
There’s something deeply human about a mascot who can make a sick child smile, ignite hope after a loss, or bring tears of joy to a family seeing their graduate walk across the stage. Nicole and John, in their own ways, tapped into that magic. They channeled what it means to be Gamecock strong—not just loud and proud, but present and compassionate. Their legacy will live on not only in photos and videos but in the hearts of every fan they touched.
Of course, none of this was easy. There were long hours, heavy suits in scorching heat, and days when the energy just wasn’t there. Yet they showed up—every time. That’s the mark of true commitment. That’s what makes their achievements so inspiring. To perform under pressure, to smile even when tired, and to give all of yourself to something bigger—these are the hallmarks of a servant leader.
It’s also important to remember that being Cocky means keeping secrets. It means doing your job while no one knows your name. For a long time, Nicole and John existed as anonymous heroes in feathers and fur. Now, they finally get to step out of the shadows and receive the recognition they deserve. And rightfully so.
Their reveal is more than a formality—it’s a celebration of who they are as people. Because what made them incredible mascots is what makes them incredible Gamecocks: fierce pride, endless energy, boundless kindness, and a relentless work ethic. They are not just symbols; they are students, friends, leaders, and role models.
As the curtain closes on their time inside the suit, it’s clear their story is just beginning. They leave behind enormous shoes (or perhaps claws) to fill, but they also leave behind a legacy of excellence. The next person to wear the Cocky costume won’t just inherit a mascot—they’ll inherit a standard. And that standard was raised, boldly and beautifully, by Nicole Hurley and John Sutay.
In the broader story of the University of South Carolina, where traditions run deep and pride knows no bounds, Nicole and John will forever hold a special place. They gave the university more than performances—they gave it heart. They didn’t just entertain; they inspired. They didn’t just represent Cocky; they became Cocky.
So today, we stand and applaud—not just for the skits, the crowd surfing, or the halftime hijinks—but for the people behind the feathers. Nicole Hurley and John Sutay, thank you. You’ve made us laugh, made us proud, and reminded us why we love being Gamecocks. Congratulations on your accomplishments and thank you for giving everything to the role. You made Cocky come to life in ways we’ll never forget.
And while your time in the suit may be over, your impact never will be.
