Breckinridge Hesselman

Class:
Senior
Hometown:
Hingham, Mass.
High School:
Hingham
Major:
Finance

WHAT SPARKED YOUR INTEREST IN THE RALPHIE PROGRAM?
When I saw the Handlers running Ralphie at my first football game at CU I thought it was the coolest thing and I knew I wanted to be apart of it. I am also in Sigma Nu fraternity, and back when the running of Ralphie tradition started the Handlers used to all be members of Sigma Nu. So becoming a Handler was something I wanted to bring back to the Sigma Nu house. My Mom is also obsessed with Ralphie.

WHAT DOES RALPHIE MEAN TO YOU?
It means representing the University of Colorado and being able to continue a 50 year old tradition with the greatest college mascot.

WHAT'S THE HARDEST PART OF BEING A RALPHIE HANDLER?
Being a student athlete is definitely difficult to manage sometimes. Practice, workouts, and ranch days can take up lots of time, but its this responsibility that we have as Handlers that make carrying on this tradition such a great experience.

WHAT'S THE BEST PART OF BEING A RALPHIE HANDLER?
The coaches and teammates are all super supportive of one and other and really make the program and team feel like a family. It is a great environment to be surrounded by, and I love that I get to be apart of it.

WHAT'S ONE THING THAT SURPRISES PEOPLE THE MOST WHEN THEY ASK YOU ABOUT BEING A
RALPHIE HANDLER?
A lot of people don't realize how much work we do for training, practicing, and most importantly taking care of a buffalo. Its a lot of work to take care of a full grown buffalo and making sure she is comfortable and happy.

WHAT'S ONE THING ABOUT RALPHIE THAT SURPRISED YOU THE MOST AFTER BECOMING A
RALPHIE HANDLER?
The connection with Ralphie that the Handlers develop is really amazing and I think its surprising how smart she is and how she becomes so familiar with people that are around her.

WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES?
In my free time I love to go hiking, skiing, biking, running, camping or do any activity outdoors as I continue to explore Colorado.