The Jolly Roger is flying under new command at the University of Tennessee. The Swashbucklers Guild — a pirate-themed student club known as much for its playful campus events as its spirited counter-protests — has named a new leader. Former Captain Nick has passed the torch, and now Captain ‘Mossbeard’ is at the helm, steering the crew into its next chapter.
For many students, the guild’s former leader, Captain Nick Gass, was synonymous with that energy. Known for his booming voice, playful pirate attire, and habit of showing up wherever campus needed a spark of joy (or mischief), Gass left an unmistakable mark on the landlocked Rocky Top. Students recall him as the kind of leader who made everyone feel welcome aboard.
Benjamin Freeman, a data science major, helps make marketing materials for the guild. Freeman says that for deckhands in the club, Gass’s departure to new waters leaves big boots to fill.
“He left behind a legacy of a great leader. Someone who we all strive to be like,” Freeman said. “No matter what you identified as, he made you feel like you belonged.”…