The Citadel Bulldogs football team is set to showcase a distinctive array of uniform options for the 2015 season, as announced by Head Coach Mike Houston. These combinations are not just about aesthetics; they are a tribute to the esteemed South Carolina Corps of Cadets, drawing direct inspiration from the uniforms worn by the cadets. Beyond the traditional home and away kits, the Bulldogs will sport “duty,” “blazer,” “summer leave,” and “salt and pepper” combinations, each echoing a specific cadet uniform.
“Our football team proudly represents the South Carolina Corps of Cadets every time they take the field, and these uniform selections are a visual embodiment of that connection,” stated Director of Athletics Jim Senter. This initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen the bond between cadet-athletes and the wider Corps. Senter added, “When Adidas presented us with the opportunity to create unique football uniform combinations, we immediately saw it as a chance to honor and highlight the diverse uniforms of the Corps of Cadets.”
Commandant of Cadets, Navy Capt. Geno Paluso, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the symbolic importance of the uniforms. “Mirroring the Corps uniforms in the team’s on-field attire underscores the deep commitment the football program has to the Corps of Cadets,” Paluso commented. “Our cadet-athletes are cadets first and foremost. This gesture of recognizing the Corps’ uniforms is a powerful demonstration of their respect and dedication to the institution.”
The unveiling of which uniform combination will be worn for each game will be a weekly event during game week. The Citadel kicked off its season on September 5th against Davidson.
Coach Mike Houston expressed the team’s enthusiasm for the new options, including the introduction of a gray uniform element for the first time. “The Citadel is an extraordinary institution, and we are thrilled to represent its values and spirit on the field in a way that acknowledges the unwavering support from both the Corps of Cadets and our extensive alumni network,” Houston remarked. He further noted the practical advantages of unique uniforms, stating, “Uniforms are a significant aspect of our program that resonates with both current and prospective cadet-athletes. These combinations provide us with another compelling element when engaging with recruits.”
Here’s a closer look at The Citadel’s 2015 Citadel Uniforms:
Home: The bedrock of the Bulldogs’ look, the home uniform features a classic combination of a white helmet, Citadel blue jersey, and white pants.
Dress White: Inspired by the formal dress white uniforms worn by cadets in warmer months, this citadel uniform mirrors The Citadel’s traditional all-white away uniform. It includes a white helmet, white jersey, and white pants, projecting a crisp and sharp image.
Duty: Reflecting the daily wear duty uniform of cadets for classes and campus activities, the football duty uniform consists of a white helmet, gray jersey, and gray pants. This combination offers a practical and grounded aesthetic.
Blazer: Drawing inspiration from the blazer uniform, reserved for “Special Orders” cadets in their junior year and beyond, the football blazer uniform pairs a white helmet with a navy jersey and gray pants. This citadel uniform option brings a touch of distinction and signifies achievement.
Summer Leave: Paying homage to the summer leave uniform worn for parades and leave periods, this citadel uniform combines a white helmet, white jersey, and gray pants. It’s a lighter, more versatile combination suitable for various game day conditions.
Salt & Pepper: Emanating from the salt & pepper uniform, donned by cadets for warm-weather parades, inspections, and ceremonies, the football salt & pepper uniform features a white helmet, gray jersey, and white pants. This combination presents a balanced and striking visual on the field.
For continuous updates and deeper insights into The Citadel football program, fans are encouraged to follow @CitadelFootball and visit CitadelSports.com.
