Behind the mask and under the suit: The TXST graduate who brought Boko to Life

If you're a Bobcat fan, chances are you've posed for a photo with Boko. Or maybe you've snapped one from the stands, watched the Texas State University mascot rally the crowd, or joined in chants echoing across UFCU Stadium.  

What you probably didn't realize was that, for the past two years, the person bringing Boko to life was Sophia Robinson.

Hidden beneath the oversized feline suit, Robinson became one of TXST’s most recognizable figures while remaining completely anonymous. She argued that every sideline sprint, crowd interaction and spirited celebration belonged to Boko, not to the student inside the costume.

"It was just a really full-circle moment," Robinson said. "Little 12-year-old me was so proud just to be able to try out."

Robinson's mascot career began in middle school, where she first discovered a love for performing behind a mask. When she arrived at TXST, she knew she had to at least try to continue that journey.  

Landing the part required more than school spirit. During auditions, Robinson had to prove she possessed the stamina, strength and endurance to perform for hours inside the heavy mascot suit, often under the relentless Texas sun. But the physical demands of the job weren't what challenged her most.

"It was a little hard to keep a secret," Robinson said. "But for the most part, it was a big surprise for everybody."

For two years, Robinson lived a double life.

Although it’s not required for mascots to hide their identities, Robinson embraced the tradition. To her, anonymity is what solidifies Boko’s identity.  

"It's just part of the magic," the TXST alum said. "Once that head goes on, you are no longer you. You're Boko. So that's part of keeping the magic alive."

Only a small circle knew the truth. Her professors were informed so they understood the demanding schedule. A few close friends knew. So did her roommate.

"My roommate knew because they'd have to pick me up or take me home or be like, 'Oh, hey, what's this giant bag doing in the house?'" Robinson said with a laugh.

The secret remained intact until commencement in May 2026.

As Robinson prepared to cross the graduation stage, TXST made history. For the first time, the university publicly revealed the student behind Boko. Robinson walked across the stage, hand in hand with the mascot she had embodied for two years, drawing cheers and surprise from graduates, faculty and attendees.

"I'm still so amazed that I got to even do it and be celebrated in that way," Robinson said. "Now everyone gets to be celebrated. Everyone's like, 'I had classes with them. They sat next to me on the bus multiple times.' I think it's a really cool opportunity for the student body."

The reveal marked more than a personal milestone. It also established a new tradition. Future Bokos can now expect to be recognized publicly at commencement, honoring the countless hours they spend representing TXST. 

While Robinson's identity is no longer a secret, several other mascots remain. During her time as Boko, she also served as captain and helped train fellow TXST mascots. However, the exact number and identities of other Bokos remain confidential.  

While she enjoyed the experience of the big reveal, Robinson says she’s most excited about what this means for her cheer colleagues.  

"What I'm most happy for is that now future Bokos are going to get their flowers and be celebrated and recognized for their hard work.”

Although the excitement from the unveiling has dwindled down, Robinson’s next adventure is just starting … and it still includes mascot suits.  

She is currently working as a mascot instructor at the Universal Cheerleaders Association, which brings her back full circle, yet again. It’s the same cheer camp she attended during her first year of mascotting.