Athletics Logo

The University of West Florida Department of Intercollegiate Athletics revealed the new face of Argonaut athletics on August 20, 2009.  The new athletics logo was revealed before UWF Recreation and Sports Services’ annual event Late Night with Recreation.

LOGO REVEAL

Complete Art Sheet (June 29, 2012 update - contains all logos)

The marks of the University of West Florida are controlled under a licensing program administered by Strategic Marketing Affiliates.  Any use of these marks will require written approval from Strategic Marketing Affiliates.  For more information, visit http://uwf.edu/licensing.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why were the new marks developed?
- It is a symbolic way to display a new enthusiasm for the University of West Florida.
- Argonaut rebranding will help renew school spirit.
- It will give UWF Athletics a more progressive and modern visual identity.
- It will create a consistent graphical representation for UWF teams.
- It will create more opportunities for Argonaut apparel in the marketplace.

What is an Argonaut?
The athletic nickname, chosen originally in 1967 by the charter class and reaffirmed by the students in 1986, honors the ancient questors of Greek legend, Jason and the Argonauts.  The Argonauts were a band of warriors who accompanied Jason on his search for the fabled Golden Fleece.  Among their ranks were Castor and Pollux (the Greek gods of athleticism and seafarers), Hercules, and Atalanta.

Are the new marks historically accurate?
They are based on historic images, but the style is representational, intending to appeal to modern audiences.

Where will I be able to purchase merchandise with the new logo?
- The university contracted with Strategic Marketing Associates this summer to license all UWF logos. SMA, Inc. is responsible for releasing the new marks to licensees across the nation, which will then distribute the merchandise to additional retail outlets. We will make you aware of new retailers as that information becomes available. Potential vendors must use approved marks and receive written approval from SMA.
- The UWF Bookstore will begin carrying merchandise with the new marks as soon as possible.
- UWF athletics staff will also be giving away items with the new marks as promotional items at select home events.

Who was on the committee that went through this process?
Selected members of the Athletic Department and University Marketing Communications were involved in the process, led by Assistant Athletic Director Tony Nguyen and Marketing Communications Director of Publications Connie Marse. The group also sought input from various on- and off-campus groups, including the UWF Student Government Association.

Who paid for the development of the new marks?
The development of the marks was paid out of the budgets of both the University Institutional Marketing and the Athletic Department.

Who designed the new marks?
Rickabaugh Graphics of Ohio, a specialist in athletic logo design, was employed to design the marks with input from University staff.  Rickabaugh Graphics has developed sports logos for colleges across the nation, including several of our sister institutions in Florida and members of the Gulf South Conference.
 
How much did they cost?
The committee invited illustrators who had demonstrated expertise in sports logo development to submit quotes and examples of their work.  The amounts paid were competitive in the industry.

Who supports the new marks?
The entire University supports the new marks, including University and Athletics Administration and the UWF coaching staff. The university president approved the final design in early July.

May all UWF departments use the new marks?
Departments may wish to promote school spirit by incorporating the new Argonaut logo into their websites, publications, and specialty advertising items, however it may not be used as a substitute for the official UWF logo and may not be used on letterhead or business cards other than UWF Athletics.

What happens to the current athletic logos?
The current logos will no longer be used.

Are a lot of schools going through this same process?
Yes. The industry standard for athletics logos is 8-10 years, and the University has been using the same athletic marks for 15 years.
 
When did the University begin this process?
We requested quotes and selected the vendor in October 2008.

Will it cost the Athletic Department a lot of money to change all the teams’ uniforms and add the new marks to facilities?
The Athletic Department will change to the new marks as new uniforms are needed.  The Argonaut logo on the gym floor will also be replaced.

What will happen to Argie, our aging mascot?
We are anticipating an extreme makeover for Argie in the near future.

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