A new era of Sam Houston State athletics got underway last week when the university — which is located in Huntsville, Texas — unveiled a new primary logo and updated color scheme.
“I am extremely excited to help introduce a new look and identity for our Bearkat athletes, fans, coaches and alumni without losing the tradition we have built over the last 20 years,” athletic director Bobby Williams said in a statement. “I think we have developed something everyone associated with Sam Houston State can be proud of.”
The process took nearly two years; involved input from alumni, athletic staff, coaches, donors, faculty and student-athletes; and included more than 20 different concepts, most of which centered around the “SH” and a paw print. The main goal was to create a more simplified logo for digital and physical applications without deviating too far from the previous design.
“Since the beginning of this project, the goal was to develop a modern identity that upholds the core values and storied traditions of which the Bearkats brand is built on,” said Conner O’Flaherty, managing director at SME Branding. “We are excited to introduce an identity that honors the rich legacy of the Bearkats, while providing a foundation to lead the program into a brilliant future.”
In addition to the updated primary mark, Sam Houston State also introduced a new mascot logo that is considered a throwback to the 1950s.
“Working on this project was a personal and professional dream come true,” said Russell Martinez, associate athletic director for external relations. “One of my earliest memories of Sam Houston State is Walking Sammy and to help bring him back in a new and modern way has been probably the most exciting and anticipated aspects of this project.”
The Bearkats also adjusted their orange and white color scheme, removing blue from the equation while allowing uniforms and other apparel to now include black or gray trim.
Photos via Sam Houston State University.
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