When we last checked in with Villanova’s “Crying Piccolo Girl”, she, along with the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame Museum, was in the midst of a month-long kickstarter project in the hopes of bringing a bobblehead to the world. As it turned out, they hit their goal quicker than expected.
Roxanne Chalifoux’s campaign was launched earlier this month, thanks to Phil Sklar of the bobblehead museum, and was given 30 days to raise $5,000 in order to provide enough money to produce the bobbleheads. Yet with a week remaining, the fund had already received backing from over 130 people totaling nearly $5,500.
“I’m definitely relieved since [failing] would have been a little embarrassing. But I knew with the whole Nova Nation community behind me that we would make our goal,” said Chalifoux. "I’ve had so much incredible support since the entire situation happened, and I’m just so grateful.”
The bobblehead design is still in production, but the initial prototype can be found on the kickstarter page. Chalifoux said that they should have the final version up by Monday.
The recent Villanova graduate will be heading to the Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University for her post-graduate degree, but doesn’t expect the fame to carry with her.
“It’s totally fine with me. This was a fun ride, but I’m more than happy to be totally normal again!” Chalifoux said. “It’s great that I still get to be a Villanova Wildcat forever, and that’s all I could ever want… I’ll always be tied to my alma mater.”
This whirlwind of a spring only occurred because of the Villanova men’s basketball team being defeated in the NCAA Tournament. Eighth-seeded North Carolina State upset the top-seeded Wildcats, and Chalifoux, who was there with the band, played through the tears as the credits rolled. The video went viral instantly.
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“My senior year, it would have been incredible to see the team go to the Final Four. I can be at peace with the loss considering the ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ opportunities I received, but it still would have been a dream come true to see the team make it to Indianapolis,” Chalifoux added. “It would have been an amazing memory to have with the band, going to the Final Four with all my friends.”
The bobbleheads should be ready to ship out by September. The first 250 backers can guarantee themselves a bobblehead for a minimum donation of $15, plus shipping. Chalifoux receives a small portion of profits, but she ensured that the band received some kickback as well.
“It was such a unique way to help benefit the band so I really wanted to be a part of the project,” said Chalifoux. “I was so excited to give back to such an important organization that was part of my phenomenal college experience.”
Chalifoux added a “Go ’Cats” cheer, a jovial phrase oft-uttered on Villanova’s campus. A truly fitting way to sum up a community that has had her back since that disappointing March evening.
