The jerseys feature the Aikowania Bear logo, designed by artist Monte Eagle Plume using traditional Blackfoot painting methods.
The jersey also features a pattern reminiscent of a pendulum blanket designed by Multimedia Production student Raven Tailfeathers, a Sspomitapiiski (Star People) design on the arms and a mountain motif on the back.
Samantha Burgis, goalkeeper for the women’s soccer team, is Indigenous and said of the jerseys: “I think it’s really amazing to see how my culture is represented through these jerseys. “I think they’re beautiful, I think they represent so much and I can do it Can’t wait to wear them tomorrow.”
The indigenous jerseys are worn on special occasions. The first time the Kodiaks will wear the new jerseys will be Saturday, September 30, National Truth and Reconciliation Day. The cross country and soccer teams will wear them at their events.
Kodiaks athletics director Todd Caughlin said even though the jerseys are only for certain occasions, that could change.
He explained: “Athletes are very superstitious. So if they get a few big wins in them, I’ll probably get some requests to wear them more often, but I won’t turn that down.”
The college recently won the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) Innovation Award for its “We are Aikowania“Video and Facility Reconciliation Initiative.
The Kodiaks unveiled a new Indigenous logo, new gym floor and the name Aikowania last year.
READ MORE: Lethbridge College unveils Indigenous Kodiaks logo
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