Ucla Football Uniforms have been a topic of passionate discussion among Bruins fans for years. While alternate uniforms have often been praised, a consistent point of contention remains: the use of generic block numbers. Looking back at the program’s history and the unique identity of UCLA athletics, it’s clear that embracing the Clarendon font for jersey numbers is a crucial step to elevate the UCLA football uniform and set it apart.
Clarendon_uniforms_4_medium
A side-by-side comparison showcasing UCLA football alternate uniforms featuring the distinctive Clarendon font, highlighting its visual appeal and unique character.
The Success of UCLA Alternate Uniforms: A Nod to Clarendon
Over the years, UCLA has introduced several alternate football uniforms that have resonated strongly with fans. Interestingly, these successful alternates have consistently incorporated the classic Clarendon font for the jersey numbers. From the revered 1967 Gary Beban throwback uniforms worn against Washington in 2009 to the striking all-white alternates against U$C and the sleek “L.A. Nights” navy blue alternates against Arizona, the Clarendon font has been a defining feature. These uniforms demonstrate that when UCLA steps outside of the standard block numbers and embraces its heritage, the results are visually impressive and fan-approved. The positive reception of these alternate designs begs the question: why not make the Clarendon font a standard element of UCLA football uniforms?
A Legacy Etched in Clarendon: UCLA Football History
The Clarendon font is more than just a visually appealing typeface; it’s deeply intertwined with the history of UCLA football. Some of the program’s most iconic figures and moments are associated with uniforms featuring Clarendon numbers. Gary Beban, UCLA’s only Heisman Trophy winner, donned the Clarendon font during his historic 1967 season. Later, stars like Cade McNown and DeShaun Foster electrified the Pac-10 conference while wearing the same distinctive font. This visual connection to UCLA’s glorious past creates a sense of tradition and heritage that resonates with players and fans alike. Returning to the Clarendon font would not only be an aesthetic upgrade but also a powerful tribute to the legends who paved the way for today’s Bruins.
Clarendon_uniforms_1_mediumA collection of UCLA football legends, including Gary Beban, Cade McNown, and DeShaun Foster, visually linked by their iconic jerseys featuring the Clarendon font, symbolizing a rich program history.
It’s worth noting the importance of consistent gold coloring in the UCLA uniform. As seen in historical photos, the shade of gold on the pants can significantly impact the overall sharpness of the uniform. Maintaining the correct shade of gold, alongside the Clarendon font, would further enhance the visual appeal of the UCLA football uniform.
Clarendon_uniforms_2_medium
Vintage UCLA football jerseys readily available on eBay, prominently displaying the Clarendon font, reinforcing its historical significance and enduring appeal among fans and collectors.
Clarendon Across UCLA Athletics: A Unified Brand Identity
The Clarendon font’s significance extends beyond the football program. Many other UCLA athletic teams have historically utilized or currently use the Clarendon numbering font, creating a cohesive visual identity across different sports. This consistent branding reinforces UCLA’s unique athletic aesthetic and distinguishes it from other universities. By adopting Clarendon for football uniforms, UCLA would strengthen this unified brand identity and further emphasize its distinctive style.
Clarendon_uniforms_3_medium
A visual showcase of various UCLA athletic teams, demonstrating the widespread use of the Clarendon font across different sports, contributing to a unified and recognizable UCLA athletic brand.
Block Numbers vs. Clarendon: Generic vs. Unique
While there’s nothing inherently wrong with block numbers, their widespread use across college football makes them feel generic. Countless programs utilize block numbers, resulting in a lack of visual distinction. UCLA, a university with a rich history and tradition, deserves a uniform that reflects its unique identity. The Clarendon font provides that differentiation. It’s a font that, while not exclusive to UCLA, is strongly associated with the Bruins and offers a sense of individuality in a landscape of increasingly standardized athletic uniforms.
Clarendon_uniforms_5_medium
Images of UCLA football players throughout different eras sporting block number jerseys, contrasting with the Clarendon font and highlighting the argument for a return to the more distinctive typeface.
Consider the example of Oregon. While their uniforms are known for their ever-changing and often unconventional designs, they have successfully established a unique brand identity through their distinctive, albeit polarizing, numbering font, “Bellotti Bold.” This unique font is instantly recognizable as Oregon, contributing significantly to their brand recognition. UCLA doesn’t need to emulate Oregon’s extreme uniform variations, but adopting the Clarendon font would be a similar step towards creating a more distinctive and memorable visual identity.
Time for a Change: Bring Back Clarendon
The evidence is clear: the Clarendon font is a superior choice for UCLA football uniforms. It honors the program’s rich history, enhances visual appeal, reinforces UCLA’s unique athletic brand, and provides much-needed differentiation from the generic block numbers prevalent in college football. While improved shoulder striping from Adidas would be another welcome enhancement, returning to the Clarendon font for jersey numbers is a vital step in reclaiming the heritage and elevating the aesthetic of UCLA football uniforms. It’s time for UCLA to fully embrace its visual legacy and make the Clarendon font a permanent fixture of its football uniforms.
