Changing Uniforms Upsets Fans

Tuesday 22nd of February 2011 04:33:33 PM

Uniforms represent so much more than just clothing. Read a letter sent to the editor of The Daily Collegian at Penn State University: “As a Penn State alumnus, supporter and donor I was shocked, upset and devastated to hear the news about the proposed changes to the football uniforms. Penn State football uniforms are a classic time honored tradition and removing the white strip around the collar will destroy the classic uniform look. I encourage all students, fans, alumni, and supporters who are just as upset as I am with this change to contact the Athletic Department and demand that the uniforms stay the same. Last time I checked we were and always will be Penn State, not Oregon University!”

The fans have gone wild over suggested changes to the university football team uniforms. The uniforms. The ‘big’ change? They want to eliminate home-uniform white trim around the neck and sleeves. The blue trim would be eliminated for the road-uniforms.

You wouldn’t think that such a small change would create such uproar, but it has. That’s because uniforms represent more than just something to wear or bits of fabric. They inspire unity and loyalty. That’s why employers ask workers to wear uniforms. The embroidered shirts with the company name instill pride in company employees while also serving as marketing tools.

Of course, when it comes to athletic teams and fans, loyalty is taken to a whole new dimension. And that’s why the Penn State fans are so upset at such a minor change to the team’s uniforms. They like knowing the team is wearing the same style (updated) it has for decades. Changing even a stripe makes a big difference….in the minds of fans.