Fans attending the University of Northern Iowa basketball game against Old Dominion Feb. 19 caught an eyeful: a man covered in white paint and wearing nothing but a Speedo, a purple tutu and a cape.

Now known as “Speedo Man,” this enthusiastic fan has dedicated his appearance to helping the UNI Men’s Basketball Team go all the way to the top. In an exclusive interview, the Northern Iowan caught up with Speedo Man:

NI: Who are you Speedo Man?

“I’m an avid Panther fan and a member of the UNI Pep Crew. My job is to rally the crowd and get everyone pumped up for the game. Also, to help the Panthers to victory.”

NI: How do you help the Panther cause?

“When our opponents go up to shoot free throws, all fans in the student section sit down. That’s when I come in; I stand up and start flailing my arms around, dancing like a fool and shouting – anything to distract the shooter enough to make him miss his shot.”

NI: Just how effective has Speedo Man been in distracting the other team?

“When I’m doing my thing, the other team has only made five out of six free throws.”

NI: Why do you do it then? Dress up and all.

“The Pep Crew and myself wanted to give fans something a little different, something unique, something funny.”

NI: What do you do in your free time?

“I like going to dance parties and listening to the Backstreet Boys and N*Sync, sometimes even a little old school Britney Spears. They all bring me back to my middle school days.”

NI: Do you have a love interest?

“I’m in love with the dance team and their dancing abilities and the fact that they’re national champions. But the cheerleaders are right behind on my list.”

NI: Do you have a dream?

“I’d like to be a professional curler and save the world.”

NI: Are you going to be at the game against Illinois State this Saturday?

“Only if there is enough interest.”

NI: How do students show their support?

“Become a fan of ‘Bring back Speedo Man’ on Facebook.”

NI: To end, what advice do you have for students?

“Get caught up with everything. Let loose. Be loud. Be crazy. And make sure to have a lot of fun with it.”