Old Colony Archives
11 seniors to compete for Mr. Cougar title
An evening of fun and entertainment to benefit charity
By Tyra Pacheco, Standard-Times correspondent
May 5, 2003
ROCHESTER -- Eleven seniors are getting ready to pounce on the title of Mr. Cougar at Old Colony Regional Vocational-Technical High School.
The young men vying for the title will compete in talent, casual wear and formal wear in this second annual pageant.
The competition will be held at 7 p.m. Friday in the school's gymnasium.
Tickets are $6 in advance at the main office, and $7 at the door.
The panel of eight judges will include teachers from both academics and shops, as well as members of the administration, guidance department and support staff.
"We try to spread it out," said Matthew Trahan, a teacher's assistant who is coordinating the event. "It's a fun night to get the administration, the staff and the students together. It's a lot of fun."
Mr. Cougar 2003 will receive several prom-related gifts, including free prom tickets, a tuxedo rental and a free haircut.
But the most exciting perk Mr. Cougar will receive could just be a place to park. "The superintendent gives up his parking space for a week, and the kids just love that," Mr. Trahan said.
Last year's victor, Eric Beauregard, performed "The Piano Man" by Billy Joel. Mr. Beauregard played the piano, sang and played the harmonica.
"This year, we have a lot of dancing and takeoffs of television shows," Mr. Trahan said. "It's a little bit different than last year."
Last year's event drew a crowd of nearly 400 people.
"It was a hit," Mr. Trahan said. "There was a lot of positive feedback, and we're hoping to do the same this year."
The proceeds of last year's Mr. Cougar competition were donated to an Acushnet family who had a little boy suffering from leukemia. This year's fund raising beneficiary will be announced the night of the competition.
Mr. Trahan said this gives the students the opportunity to help someone and share one of their last high school events.
"It's going to give them a memory of school," Mr. Trahan said. "Spending time with friends rehearsing, it's something to look forward to. They are a role model for the underclassmen. School spirit is No. 1. It brings the school together. It's great to see the audience laughing and excited. It's a blast. I love it."