Some fans will do just about anything if they think it will help their team win.
And in Lawrence, excitement for Kansas University’s football team’s 11-0 record is going to some people’s heads – literally.
At Watson’s Barbershop, 701 W. Ninth St., some customers want their KU spirit to show.
“They’re in the fever,” said barber Tim Nelson. “Game day, it’s like, ‘Can you put a KU in my head real fast?'”
Recently, a new option became available to patrons: the Jayhawk.
“It’s all freehand,” said Martin Watson, who debuted his version of the mascot on Sunday, at a customer’s request. “If you think about it too much, you might mess up.”
Watson said it took him about five to 10 minutes to create the image, and he’s ready to do more.
“It’s good for business, if anything,” Watson said. “If a Jayhawk is what it takes to keep business and give me a good time, I’m willing to do it.”
The hairstyles remain visible for about a week, but that’s not long enough for other fans who desire something permanent.
Skin Illustrations, 725 N. Second St., receives tattoo requests for Jayhawks and the KU lettering.
“It’s a mix of everybody,” said tattoo artist Dirk F. Hoogestraat. “Definitely more students, but also older generations and alumni.”
The undefeated season hasn’t meant more fans lining up to get inked, though.
“It’s more just whenever someone feels the need,” Hoogestraat said. “I haven’t noticed anything, even with the winning streak.”
