Colorado University Athletics

2019-20 Ralphie Roster

Ryan Bennett

Ryan Bennett

  • Class:
    Senior
  • Hometown:
    Black Forest, Colo.
  • High School:
    Pine Creek
WHAT SPARKED YOUR INTEREST IN THE RALPHIE PROGRAM?
What sparked my interest in the Ralphie program was my first time seeing Ralphie run out in front of the football team. A chill went up my spine and I was blown away. I was anxious, scared, and in awe as Ralphie ran down the side lines with the handlers sprinting alongside her. Each and every time I saw Ralphie run that same chill ran up my spine, and that is when I decided I wanted to be a part of the excitement and history of the Ralphie program in order to continue giving fans the same excitement I feel every time I see Ralphie run out onto the field.

WHAT DOES RALPHIE MEAN TO YOU?
To me Ralphie is the pride and joy of the University of Colorado. She is the essence of power, determination, pride, and superiority in all we do as a university.

WHAT'S THE HARDEST PART OF BEING A RALPHIE HANDLER?
The hardest part of being a Ralphie Handler is juggling all the responsibilities of being a student athlete. Ensuring that school comes first when you are excited for an upcoming game day and preparing for it is extremely challenging. Being extremely busy however helps guarantee all the Ralphie Handlers are working hard in all we do, on and off the field, to pursue a degree from the University of Colorado as well as stay involved in extracurricular activities.

WHAT'S THE BEST PART OF BEING A RALPHIE HANDLER?
The best part of being a Ralphie Handler is seeing the pure joy and excitement of all the fans as we bring Ralphie to a game or appearance. It truly makes me happy to see how ecstatic Ralphie makes her fans and those around to see her.

WHAT'S ONE THING THAT SURPRISES PEOPLE THE MOST WHEN THEY ASK YOU ABOUT BEING A RALPHIE HANDLER?
When people ask me about being a Ralphie Handler, the one thing that surprises them the most is the training, preparation, and time spent getting Ralphie and all the handlers ready for game day runs. This includes our time lifting in the weight room, conditioning, time spent at Ralphie’s ranch taking care of her, and repetitions running Ralphie. The behind the scenes of the 30 second game day runs are hours and hours of year round preparation.

WHAT'S ONE THING ABOUT RALPHIE THAT SURPRISED YOU THE MOST AFTER BECOMING A RALPHIE HANDLER?
After becoming a Ralphie Handler, one thing that surprised me the most about Ralphie is how she can recognize each and every handler on the team. Her composure is that of a wild animal, yet she has a calm side similar to a dog. She forms a special bond between each handler and is happy to see us every time we pick her up from her ranch.

WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES?
My hobbies include doing anything active and outdoors. I enjoy hunting, fishing, sports, and flying as an aspiring pilot.
Thursday, September 25
Friday, September 19
Saturday, August 24
Sunday, August 18