APSU Athletics to unveil new brand marks on April 1
CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – Austin Peay State University Athletics will unveil its new visual identity series and brand marks at a press conference at 11 a.m., April 1, in the APSU Dunn Center.
The series, which includes an updated primary logo as well as a new Governor Peay logo and a fresh word mark heightened by a contemporary font, embodies APSU’s new “Culture of Excellence” characteristics.
CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – Austin Peay State University Athletics will unveil its new visual identity series and brand marks at a press conference at 11 a.m., April 1, in the APSU Dunn Center.
The series, which includes an updated primary logo as well as a new Governor Peay logo and a fresh word mark heightened by a contemporary font, embodies APSU’s new “Culture of Excellence” characteristics.
“We’re very excited about our new visual identity,” APSU Athletics Director Derek van der Merwe said. “This is something that is important for the future of APSU Athletics. These new marks strengthen the APSU brand and will factor in everything from marketing to recruiting.
“In our meetings with our respective teams, our student-athletes reacted enthusiastically to the proposed changes, as did all our constituencies. These will represent who we are now and into the future.”
Approximately nine months ago, APSU assembled a committee of University staff members, local businessmen and alumni to spearhead an effort to enhance the visual identity of APSU Athletics. Joe Bosack and Co., based out of Pottsville, Pa., was hired to create a look that represented the school’s vision. The company presented multiple initial concepts – six AP logos, seven Governor Peay logos and five word marks – that were narrowed to three finalists. At that point, APSU Athletics met with constituency groups including Governors Club members, campus leaders, students, student-athletes, coaches, staff, season-ticket holders and donors to seek feedback.
“The updated brand components – of which the new Governor mascot emblem is the most significant piece – has been carefully developed with the fan experience in mind,” Jeff Bibb, of BLF Marketing, said. “Austin Peay alumni and fans can look forward to purchasing visually striking and boldly branded apparel to show their passion and support the University’s athletics program.”
The primary AP logo has stood the test of time. The Nashville-based advertising agency Womack and Criminger—Larry Womack is an APSU alumnus—created the logo in 1976 at the direction of APSU President Robert O. Riggs. It was implemented into production by Sherwin Clift, director of public relations; Doug Vance, APSU Sports information director and Bibb, who was director of Publications and Printing Services. It was unveiled just prior to APSU’s 50th Anniversary celebration in 1977.
That logo has been hailed on many fronts, including graphic experts in both print and the electronic media, for its distinctiveness.
“The AP logo is one of the most recognizable brand marks in the OVC,” said Mike O’Malley, a longtime member of Wendy’s National Advertising Board, APSU Governors Club and Red Coat Society member. “Any changes or adjustments made had to be well thought out. These changes may be subtle, but they create a cleaner, more readable mark that will work better in all uses.”
Merchandise featuring the new identity will begin showing up at area retailers during the summer. All university athletic squads will be outfitted with the new marks beginning in Fall 2014. The complete rollout, including fields, courts and more, will take approximately four years to complete.