Four West Virginia University studentsall hailing from the Mountain Statewill battle for the title of 2002-2003 Mountaineer Mascot at tonights (Feb. 13) mens basketball game against Virginia Tech.

At the”cheer off,”each candidate will take turns donning the traditional buckskins and musket while firing up the crowd with traditional cheers and chants.

The four candidates, selected from a field of 12, are:

• Scott Biola, a senior secondary education major from Elkins

• Trey Hinrichs, a senior psychology/counseling major from New Martinsville

• Matt Losh, a junior environmental protection major from Martinsburg

• Matt See, a junior public relations major from Romney

“In my estimation, the selection process this year is the most competitive that Ive ever experienced,”said former Mountaineer Andy Cogar, selection committee chairman.”All of them are outstanding.”

The committee is comprised of six students and four faculty/staff members. The winner will be introduced at the last mens home basketball game with Georgetown on Feb. 27.