Texas Border Business
AUSTIN, TEXAS-FEBRUARY 12, 2015 –The University of Texas System Board of Regents unanimously approved the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) Department of Intercollegiate Athletics logos, word marks and specific colors at their meeting on Thursday, Feb. 12
“The athletic branding committee has done a superb job creating UTRGV’s inaugural athletic image, one that embodies strength, determination, pride and respect,” UTRGV President Dr. Guy Bailey said.
Complementing the image of the Vaquero is the bold typographic design. Symbolizing Texas Lone Star pride, a star is embedded within the “V” in RGV and Vaquero. The star is carried over from the university seals of UTB and UTPA, and soon, the seal of UTRGV. The star “V” becomes a primary image for UTRGV athletics, representing the “Vaqueros,” the “Valley” and “Victory.”
Whereas the robust typography appears dense and unyielding, the Vaquero and his steed embody unbridled energy and determination, charging ahead to tackle any obstacles in their way. A close look reveals the outline of the state of Texas hidden within the legs of the horse.
The official colors will be a bright orange accompanied by green and navy blue, in recognition of the former UTPA and UTB colors, respectively.
After the UT Board of Regents approved the nickname Vaqueros with the colors of green, blue and orange this past November, Bailey appointed an athletic branding committee to take on the important task of determining the look of the Vaquero, including how the nickname and colors would translate to team uniforms.
The committee, chaired by UTRGV Director of Athletics Chris King, included student leaders, marketing and public relations professionals, art professors, historians and athletics staff. The committee worked with national expert Eric Rickabaugh of Rickabaugh Graphics, hired by the UT System to assist UTRGV in the process. Rickabaugh has significant experience and a successful track record in rebranding and logo development for universities and professional sports teams.
“Our ample research with the stakeholders at UTB and UTPA indicated the desire for an athletic image that was competitive, tough and respected,” King said. “Throughout the process, we made these words our focal point while creating the new UTRGV athletic brand. I want to thank the committee and the focus groups for all of their help throughout the process. It was advantageous to have so many historians and artists involved, as they really helped to guide us through the process.”
The committee reviewed eight different concepts from Rickabaugh Graphics and whittled the list down to three with some changes. In the final meeting, the committee selected two concepts that were presented to four focus groups, consisting of students, alumni, donors from both campuses and student athletes and head coaches from UTPA.
