Kiess, a senior from Elkins was named the 56th Mountaineer mascot at the basketball game against Iowa State on Saturday. Kiess was a finalist with three other men. The others in the running were Jesse Lackey, Timothy Eades and Troy Salantino.
According to WVU.edu, Kiess is the 65th Mountaineer chosen to represent the school, state and athletic programs. There is a long and storied history behind the Mountaineer mascot and a lot of responsibility that goes with it.
Kiess will handle it all with respect and dignity. He was the rightful selection for a number of reasons.