A unique figure has emerged in the Indiana University football community, known affectionately as Curt Cignotti. This impersonator, Cory Miles, captures the likeness of the real Indiana Hoosiers football coach, Curt Cignetti, leading to an unexpected viral sensation.
Meet Curt Cignotti: The Viral Impersonator
Cory Miles, a 44-year-old Air Force veteran from Washington, Indiana, has taken on the persona of Curt Cignetti since IU’s recent football successes. He first donned the “Curt Cignotti” character during a game against Michigan State, hoping for a moment on the jumbotron. To his surprise, the reaction from fans was overwhelmingly positive.
Standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing 220 pounds, Miles bears a striking resemblance to the 6-foot-3, 200-pound coach Cignetti. The visual comparison is complemented by a similar hairstyle and a shared serious demeanor, making the impersonation convincing.
The Origins of the Impersonation
- Name: Curt Cignotti (Cory Miles)
- Age: 44
- Background: Air Force veteran, married with three children
- First Appearance: Michigan State game
- Current Team Record: 8-0, ranked No. 2 in AP and Coaches polls
Encouraged by friends who noted his resemblance, Miles took action. He purchased a headset, glasses, and black slacks online to complete the look. His intention was simple: gain attention during IU football games, a goal he quickly achieved as fans recognized him.
Popularity and Social Media Fame
The debut of Curt Cignotti sparked a frenzy. Fans approached Miles repeatedly for photographs, eager to engage with the impersonator who resembled their highly successful coach. During the last two home games, he estimates being stopped hundreds of times. “I get stopped 30 or 40 times just walking from the parking lot,” Miles remarked.
This newfound fame spread rapidly through social media, providing a refreshing distraction from negative news. “People needed a laugh,” Miles stated, recognizing the joy his character has brought to fans.
Approval from the Real Coach
Concern lingered in Miles’ mind regarding Coach Cignetti’s reaction to his impersonation. Following a recent game against UCLA, Cignetti addressed this directly in a press conference. “Yeah, he’s pretty good,” he remarked, accompanied by a smile. Miles felt validated and relieved, acknowledging that as long as people enjoyed it, he would continue to play the role.
Cory Miles: The Man Behind the Curtain
When not impersonating Coach Cignetti, Cory Miles balances family life and work at the Crane Naval Surface Warfare Center. His wife, Kristin, supports his humorous pursuits, though she admits it can be quite entertaining and sometimes annoying.
With two children attending IU and another young son, Miles finds that his family enjoys the notoriety he has gained, celebrating milestones together while navigating the college football scene. The excitement of IU’s historic 8-0 season amplifies their shared experience.
As the season continues, Curt Cignotti is a delightful part of IU’s football culture. Follow him on social media to keep up with the excitement surrounding this charming impersonator and the incredible season of Indiana football.
