Colorado University Athletics
2026-27 Ralphie Roster

Ty Hesse
- Class:
- Sophomore
- Hometown:
- Glenwood Springs, Colo.
- High School:
- Glenwood Springs High School
- Major:
- Data Science & Economics
WHAT SPARKED YOUR INTEREST IN THE RALPHIE PROGRAM?
My family members have attended CU for generations. There’s no better way to represent CU than to be a part of the greatest tradition in college athletics!
WHAT DOES RALPHIE MEAN TO YOU?
The Queen of Folsom represents the pride and joy of so many CU fans. She can instantly light up the crowd and is a highlight of games for everyone.
WHAT'S THE HARDEST PART OF BEING A RALPHIE HANDLER?
The hardest part of being a Ralphie Handler is balancing the full-time athlete schedule with demanding course requirements.
WHAT'S THE BEST PART OF BEING A RALPHIE HANDLER?
I really enjoy being able to use CU’s world-class athletic facilities. The athlete dining hall is definitely one of my favorite perks. We also have a wonderful team dynamic and enjoy spending time together.
WHAT'S ONE THING THAT SURPRISES PEOPLE THE MOST WHEN THEY ASK YOU ABOUT BEING A
RALPHIE HANDLER?
People are often surprised to discover that CU has such a long-standing tradition of having a live bison mascot that is so well cared for and beloved. Many people are also surprised to learn that Ralphie is a female bison.
WHAT'S ONE THING ABOUT RALPHIE THAT SURPRISED YOU THE MOST AFTER BECOMING A
RALPHIE HANDLER?
Ralphie is very curious and loves to lick our hands. She also loves to run and gets excited for practices and games.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES?
My favorite things to do include working out, skiing, rafting, reading, and spending time outside.
My family members have attended CU for generations. There’s no better way to represent CU than to be a part of the greatest tradition in college athletics!
WHAT DOES RALPHIE MEAN TO YOU?
The Queen of Folsom represents the pride and joy of so many CU fans. She can instantly light up the crowd and is a highlight of games for everyone.
WHAT'S THE HARDEST PART OF BEING A RALPHIE HANDLER?
The hardest part of being a Ralphie Handler is balancing the full-time athlete schedule with demanding course requirements.
WHAT'S THE BEST PART OF BEING A RALPHIE HANDLER?
I really enjoy being able to use CU’s world-class athletic facilities. The athlete dining hall is definitely one of my favorite perks. We also have a wonderful team dynamic and enjoy spending time together.
WHAT'S ONE THING THAT SURPRISES PEOPLE THE MOST WHEN THEY ASK YOU ABOUT BEING A
RALPHIE HANDLER?
People are often surprised to discover that CU has such a long-standing tradition of having a live bison mascot that is so well cared for and beloved. Many people are also surprised to learn that Ralphie is a female bison.
WHAT'S ONE THING ABOUT RALPHIE THAT SURPRISED YOU THE MOST AFTER BECOMING A
RALPHIE HANDLER?
Ralphie is very curious and loves to lick our hands. She also loves to run and gets excited for practices and games.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES?
My favorite things to do include working out, skiing, rafting, reading, and spending time outside.
Thursday, September 25
Friday, September 19
Saturday, August 24
Sunday, August 18


