Well, this is one dog that is going places!
Charley, a 2-year-old golden retriever, was just given the courtside job as ‘director of pawsitivity’, Montclair State University announced.
The New Jersey-based university added the happy dog as a member of the support squad for its women’s basketball team, the Red Hawks. In a picture that rivals most others, the smiling dog is listed alongside two student managers in the 2024-25 yearbook.
Players take some time with Charley, the Head of Pawsitivity. Photo courtesy of Montclair State University
Her full name is listed as Charley Cunningham Jones. And her biography is as sweet as the pup. “With a heart as golden as her fur, Charley is known for her contagious enthusiasm, tail-wagging motivation, and ability to lift spirits both on and off the court,” it reads.
“Whether she’s bringing joy to team practices, providing emotional support, or simply offering a comforting presence, Charley is a beloved member of the squad. She loves basketball and all of our student-athletes and support staff.”
Off-duty, Charley enjoys long hikes, belly rubs, swimming, collecting sticks, and of course, treats!”
Even better is that the women’s team is having its “hottest start since the 2016-17 season.” The team has won it’s first three games and are on track for one of the best seasons, the university announced.
Charley’s love of the student athletes even got ESPN’s “SportsCenter” to notice her, alongside ABC7 in New York. Her enthusiastic love of the game has the dog and her students going viral. The women, some who have been with Charley since she was a puppy, love the dog and the perks she brings to each game. “She always brings good vibes, especially before a game,” said sophomore Amanda Castro. “Good mascot, great energy.”
Their coach agrees. “One of the things that we were seeing was how much joy she brought when she comes,” added Montclair University Women’s head basketball coach Karen Harvey. “Loves the training room. Everybody just smiled.”
When the students have to practice harder drills, Charley knows to sit and watch with the coaches. But then she does her job, rushing over to lend a paw to the stressed students. The players said that her joy was infectious and helped relieve stress on the court.
Charley the Head of Pawsitivity . Photo courtesy of Montclair State University
And, she is an amazing teammate, all the women said. “She definitely gives you someone to chase after because she’s usually in front so she’s definitely a good target,” said junior Bella Orlando.
The pup’s role includes boosting morale, providing emotional support, and bringing joy to team practices and games. Since joining the team, both the dog and its unique position have attracted widespread media attention, contributing to the team’s strong start to the season.
