Oregon will debut some new uniforms that feature elements of Polynesian culture this weekend when they take on UCLA at home.
Among the elements being honored by the new threads are family, unity, and a "voyager spirit."
According to the school's release, the idea started with Ducks assistants Joe Salave'a (co-DC / associate head coach / run game coordinator / defensive line) and Alex Mirabal (offensive line coach).
In typical Nike fashion, some of the details in these are really cool. The base color of the uni is black, as a nod to the volcanic rocks of the Pacific Islands, along with "Action Green" color lines that represent the resilient vegatation growing among the volcanic rocks.
Keeping with the plant inspired theme, the color palette also utlizes a color being referred to as "New Growth" which is "nod to the Oregon football program's new direction under head coach Mario Cristobal."
There are also the following details, as shared by the release:
- A woven pattern signifying "experience" was utilized on the wings adorning the helmet, the Oregon logo and the jersey numerals. The pattern calls to mind a sinew rope, blending together the experiences of many into a single, strong strand.
- The neckline features a pattern radiating down the front of the jersey, calling to mind feather cloaks worn by Hawaiian nobility for ceremonies or battle. The pattern is green nearest to the neck line, invoking a green lei.
- Arm sleeves available to the players include imagery at the wrist signifying togetherness. That detail is a nod to bangles adorned by dancers of the Hula, the traditional means of coming together and communicating the history and values of pan-Polynesian cultures.
See some pictures, courtesy of GoDucks.com, below.
